FAST, AVOD, SVOD, & TVOD: Know the Differences in Streaming Channels
The streaming landscape is full of acronyms. This clear breakdown explains the key differences between FAST, AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD — and how to choose the right model for your content strategy.
If you've spent any time in the streaming industry, you've encountered the alphabet soup of distribution models: FAST, AVOD, SVOD, TVOD. Each represents a different approach to delivering video content to viewers — and each has different implications for content owners, distributors, and advertisers.
SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand) is the Netflix model: viewers pay a recurring fee for unlimited access to a content library. Revenue comes from subscriptions, not advertising. The key metrics are subscriber count, churn rate, and lifetime value. Examples: Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Apple TV+.
AVOD (Advertising-Based Video on Demand) offers free on-demand access in exchange for watching ads. Revenue comes from advertising. The key metrics are ad impressions, CPMs, and fill rates. Examples: Tubi, Peacock (free tier), Pluto TV (on-demand), YouTube.
FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) is the linear streaming model: scheduled channels delivered over the internet, with ads inserted at regular intervals. Like AVOD, revenue comes from advertising — but the viewing experience is more passive, like traditional TV. Examples: Pluto TV (channels), Samsung TV Plus, Tubi (channels), Peacock (channels).
TVOD (Transactional Video on Demand) is the digital rental/purchase model: viewers pay per title, either to rent for a limited period or to own permanently. Revenue comes from individual transactions. Examples: Apple TV (rentals/purchases), Amazon Prime Video (rentals/purchases), Vudu.
Most successful streaming strategies combine multiple models. A content owner might distribute premium originals through SVOD, monetize library content through AVOD and FAST, and offer new releases through TVOD. The key is having the operational infrastructure to support multi-model distribution — including the ability to time-adjust content for each model's specific requirements.
Distribute across every streaming model with Time Tailor.