In-Depth Comparison of SVOD, AVOD, BVOD & FAST

In today’s digital-first world, streaming platforms dominate content consumption. As traditional television declines, understanding how to monetise your content effectively has never been more important. Whether you’re a content creator, media company, or broadcaster, the streaming model you choose directly impacts your audience reach, revenue potential, and long-term growth.

With several different models to choose from – SVOD, AVOD, BVOD, and FAST – each has its strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases. Selecting the right one depends on multiple factors including your target audience, content type, production schedule, and overall business strategy.

Let’s explore these models in depth to help you make an informed decision and stay ahead in the ever-evolving streaming landscape.

What Is a Streaming Model?

But first, we need to step back and start from the beginning. What is exactly a streaming model? A streaming model is the framework by which content is distributed to audiences and monetised by creators or platforms. The four main streaming models are:

  • SVOD – Subscription Video on Demand

  • AVOD – Advertising-Based Video on Demand

  • BVOD – Broadcast Video on Demand

  • FAST – Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television

Each of these models reflects different approaches to monetising content—whether through user subscriptions, advertising, or hybrid systems—and aligns with different consumer behaviours.

Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD)

SVOD platforms provide users with access to content in exchange for a recurring subscription fee, typically billed monthly or annually. Users pay for convenience, exclusive content, and an ad-free experience. By offering either annual or monthly based subscriptions, the user can explore on-demand streaming of both original content and content produced by other firms.

Examples: Netflix, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+…

According to recent data, over 770 million people globally subscribe to at least one SVOD service, highlighting the popularity and scalability of this model.

Advantages of using SVOD model

Here are some advantages of using SVOD model:

  1. Reliable Income Stream: With recurring payments from users, SVOD provides a predictable and scalable revenue model. This allows for financial stability, enabling better planning, budgeting, and reinvestment into high-quality content.
  2. Increased Audience Engagement: Subscribers are often more invested in your platform because they’ve made a financial commitment. This increases watch time, encourages binge-watching behaviour, and boosts loyalty over time.
  3. Distribution Control: SVOD services allow creators and platforms to retain full control over content distribution, release schedules, and pricing. This flexibility supports exclusive releases, tiered membership structures, and region-based licensing.
  4. Upsell Opportunities: Platforms can introduce premium tiers offering early access, 4K streaming, or bundled content, enhancing revenue opportunities.

SVOD Use Cases:

  • Premium, original content released regularly
  • Strong brand equity or niche content with a loyal fanbase
  • Audiences willing to pay for convenience and quality

Advertising-based Video on Demand (AVOD)

This on-demand video service is free for users and primarily monetised through advertising. Which means that Viewers “pay” with their time by watching ads instead of subscribing. There are different types of AVOD, such as; Video ads, Online video ads, Streaming TV ads.

Examples: YouTube, Crackle, Tubi (ad-supported), Peacock (free tier)

Advantages of AVOD streaming model

  1. Lower Barrier to Entry for Viewers: Because there are no subscription fees, AVOD services attract a wider, more diverse audience – especially in cost-sensitive markets.
  2. Non-skippable Content: AVOD ensures high ad completion rates, allowing advertisers to guarantee exposure and track engagement through metrics like impressions, click-through rate (CTR), and conversions.
  3. Ad Targeting = lower risk: AVOD platforms use advanced data analytics and user segmentation to serve personalised ads based on demographics, viewing behaviour, and interests. This allows advertisers to optimise campaigns for relevance and ROI.
  4. Efficient Monetisation for Long-Tail Content: Content that may not command subscription fees can still earn revenue through high-volume ad views, making AVOD ideal for repurposing older or niche content.
  5. Scalability Without Subscription Fatigue: With many consumers experiencing “subscription fatigue,” AVOD offers a low-friction, scalable model for attracting users who prefer not to pay for every service.

AVOD Use Cases:

  • Wide, ad-tolerant audiences
  • Platforms with large content libraries
  • Content creators who prioritise reach over exclusivity

Broadcast Video on Demand (BVOD)

Broadcast Video on Demand refers to content produced and published by traditional broadcasters, made available online and on-demand. These platforms provide viewers with free access to TV shows and programs from traditional broadcasters, allowing them to watch anytime online instead of a TV schedule.

Examples: BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Channel 4 (UK), Hulu (U.S. in its early days), Sky AdSmart

While some BVOD channels may not feature commercial ads in specific regions, many services include ads as a way to support the platform. BVOD is flexible as it allows viewers to watch content on various devices (phones, tablets and smart TVs), making it easier than ever to enjoy high quality programming from reputable broadcasters at the viewer’s convenience.

Advantages of BVOD streaming model

  1. Trusted Content from Recognised Brands. BVOD content is often associated with high production values and editorial standards, which fosters trust and engagement among viewers.
  2. Advanced Targeted Advertising. Using first-party data, BVOD platforms can segment users and offer addressable advertising—showing different ads to different viewers watching the same program. Campaigns can be optimised based on viewability, ad recall, audience overlap, and cross-device tracking.
  3. Increased Viewer Engagement. Because users choose what to watch, engagement rates are higher. Viewers are more likely to finish content and respond to ads that are aligned with their interests.
  4. Multi-Device Access. BVOD platforms cater to modern viewing habits, offering content on smart TVs, tablets, mobile devices, and desktops.
  5. Regulatory & Brand Safety Benefits. Since BVOD platforms are operated by legacy media organisations, they often benefit from stricter content governance—attractive to premium advertisers.

BVOD Use Cases:

  • Traditional broadcasters adapting to digital consumption
  • Brands seeking brand-safe ad environments
  • Media companies with strong regional or national reach
what is CTV advertising
Streaming platforms and CTV advertising

Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST)

FAST is a streaming model which, similar to traditional TV, delivers scheduled programming on linear channels. Unlike AVOD, where the user is free to choose what to watch, FAST delivers content continuously. Therefore, viewers can tune in but aren’t in control of what is playing.

Examples: Pluto TV, Tubi, The Roku Channel, Samsung TV+

Advantages of FAST streaming model

  1. No Subscription Costs. Viewers can enjoy streaming without financial commitment, making it an attractive alternative to paid services. This opens up access to a global, cost-conscious audience.
  2. Large-Scale Reach. FAST services are often pre-installed on smart TVs and streaming devices, making them highly accessible. Content owners can distribute across multiple third-party FAST platforms to maximise ad revenue.
  3. TV-Like Experience in a Digital Format. FAST replicates the traditional channel-surfing experience, which appeals to viewers who prefer lean-back viewing or dislike content decision fatigue.
  4. Content Recycling. Ideal for repurposing older content (e.g., syndicated TV, long-form YouTube content) to extend its monetisation lifecycle.
  5. Continuous Ad Inventory. With 24/7 programming across dozens or even hundreds of niche channels, FAST offers consistent ad space, attractive to advertisers seeking scale.

FAST Use Cases:

  • Media companies with large back catalogs
  • Niche networks with genre-based programming
  • Content owners seeking wide exposure without a subscription barrier

 

Finding the Right Streaming Model for you

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting your streaming model. Many platforms tend to use a mix of models to maximise their revenue. To choose the best strategy, consider these key factors:

Business Goals:

Consider both short and long-term objectives.

  • Are you focused on building brand awareness? ➝ AVOD or FAST
  • Is consistent revenue your priority? ➝ SVOD
  • Are you a legacy broadcaster adapting to digital? ➝ BVOD

Know Your Audience

Understanding viewer behaviour is crucial. Knowing their preferences will help you determine the right model.

  • Will they pay for ad-free content?
  • Are they tolerant of advertising?
  • Do they prefer on-demand or linear-style viewing?

Use tools like Google Analytics, CRM data, and social media listening to segment your audience.

Content Type & Frequency

  • Premium, frequent content: SVOD works well
  • Long-tail or catalog content: AVOD or FAST are better suited
  • National/regional broadcast content: BVOD offers the best fit

Hybrid Models Are the Future

However, you NEED to have this in mind. Hybrid models are the future. minly because many platforms combine two or more models, that simple. For example:

  • Hulu offers both AVOD and SVOD tiers.
  • Peacock provides a free, ad-supported version and a paid premium version.

This flexibility allows for tiered user acquisition, catering to different consumer preferences and increasing lifetime value (LTV).

 

The Future of Streaming Monetisation

Streaming isn’t just evolving – it’s diversifying. Here’s 5 things we at Impress consider is what the future holds:

  • Personalised ad delivery using AI and predictive analytics
  • Dynamic pricing tiers in SVOD and AVOD hybrids
  • More global FAST channel networks
  • Interactive ad formats on BVOD and AVOD platforms
  • Niche SVOD services for micro-communities and vertical markets

 

Get Expert Help with Your Streaming Strategy

Choosing the right streaming model can be complex — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Impress Video, we help content owners and brands develop powerful video monetisation strategies tailored to their audience and goals. Whether you’re launching a subscription service or want to scale through ad-supported streaming, we’re here to guide you.

👉 Contact us today to learn how we can help you grow your audience, boost revenue, and future-proof your streaming business.