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Internet TV: Streaming Video On Demand (SVOD) Comparison

Research and compare on-demand Internet streaming media services.

Brodie Fogg
Brodie Fogg

Updated

Fact checked
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What's in this guide?

  1. What is Internet TV and streaming exactly?
  2. Which devices can I use to stream?
  3. Understanding your streaming options
  4. Frequently asked questions
  5. See the latest tech deals

Why should you compare streaming providers? For a long time, you’ve probably been paying through the nose for your news, sport and entertainment.

In fact now the streaming market is stacked. With new players on the block like DAZN, Apple TV+ and Disney+, joining the likes of now veteran services Netflix and Amazon Prime Video accessing premium entertainment is easier and more affordable than ever. Comparing what each service offers and how much it costs could save you a fortune in the long run.

streaming

What do I need to compare?

  • The price of the service
  • The content on offer
  • The streaming quality supplied
  • The devices that are supported

There are many things you need to consider before signing up with a streaming provider but it essentially boils down a few comparable factors: price, content, quality and compatible devices.

That’s just the start. Which services offer a free trial? Which services have a lock-in contract?

We’ve done the hard yards for you and answered all those questions for you.

If you’d like to dig a little deeper we answer some commonly asked questions and explain why streaming is taking over further down the page.

What is Internet TV and streaming exactly?

Internet Television is televised content that is delivered to all sorts of connected devices, from personal computers to smartphones to video game consoles.

Also referred to as “IPTV’ or “streaming”, this technology enables viewers to watch television shows, movies, news and sport in real time over the Internet.

The streamed content is viewed through a website or native application that gives the viewer access to a live stream or library of television shows and movies.

With a steady Internet connection and compatible device, there is little difference from what traditional broadcast options offer.

Which devices can I use to stream?

This is a common deterrent for people looking to make the switch to streaming but don’t worry, there are plenty of devices you can use to stream your entertainment. In fact, you’ve probably got one or two in your home already.



  • Computer

    If you’ve got a PC or Mac desktop or laptop computer, you’re already halfway to streaming most major streaming services. Almost every streaming service can be accessed by the web browser you use every single day.



  • Smartphone and tablet

    One of the more popular devices to stream video on, smartphones and tablets allow you to binge TV shows, movies and news on the go. Most major streaming services are compatible with iOS, Android and Windows phones and even offer offline viewing options so you don’t chew through your data.


  • Game consoles

    Why fork out for a new television when you probably own a streaming-enabled device already? Game consoles like PlayStation 4 and Xbox One have native apps for Netflix, Prime Video and more. The 4K-ready PS4 Pro and Xbox One X also allow you to stream 4K/UHD content (when connected to a 4K TV).


  • Streaming media devices

    If you’re not looking to fork out for a Smart TV, there is a huge selection of affordable streaming hardware options, like Google Chromecast, Apple TV and Fire TV that will essentially transform your standard television into a Smart TV.

There’s a whole suite of devices and gadgets you can stream on but device compatibility varies from service to service.

Understanding your streaming options

Why is streaming taking over? Convenience. While you can live stream TV shows and movies as they happen, the main draw of streaming television is the thousands and thousands of classic movies and recent blockbusters available with the press of a button.

The wide selection of compatible devices also means you don’t have to wait until you’re home on the couch to catch up on the latest news and premium TV shows. Streaming and Internet TV can be accessed from your office computer, from your smartphone on the commute home and when you get home, you can continue what you were watching on your Smart TV without missing a beat.

Streaming is also relatively cheap. Netflix is super affordable at its lowest tier and offers quality original content and options for HD and 4K (Ultra High Definition) streaming at its higher tiers.

Compare the differences in content, pricing and packages before you decide on one.

What are my options for streaming?

There are various ways you can view content over the Internet. Some are convenient but take a toll on your data while others take longer but allow offline viewing. Let us break down the differences.

Frequently asked questions

How is the content delivered to my device?

This is all well and good but how exactly did Daenerys and her dragons end up on my smartphone? While it’s not breathing fire or raising the dead, it’s still quite magical. Let us show you how it’s done.

More FAQs

More questions? You’re not the only one. See what other people are asking.

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