AVOD, SVOD, FAST: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve spent any time exploring the world of streaming, you’ve probably seen a blur of acronyms — AVOD, SVOD, FAST — used to describe different kinds of platforms.

They sound technical, but they’re simply business models that define how streaming services make money and how viewers access content.

Understanding the difference is essential for anyone working in Connected TV (CTV) advertising, because each model shapes the ad experience, the audience, and the opportunities available to brands.

AVOD stands for Advertising Video on Demand.

These are streaming services that are free to watch, supported entirely (or mostly) by advertising. Viewers don’t pay a subscription fee — instead, they see ads before or during the content.

Popular AVOD platforms include Tubi, Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, and Peacock’s free tier.

Because they’re free, AVOD platforms attract massive, diverse audiences and deliver high ad inventory volume. For advertisers, AVOD offers:

For viewers, the tradeoff is simple: watch a few ads, access thousands of hours of content.

In short: AVOD = free streaming with ads.

SVOD stands for Subscription Video on Demand.

These are paid streaming services that charge a recurring fee — monthly or annually — in exchange for ad-free (or mostly ad-free) viewing.

Examples include Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max (ad-free tier), and Apple TV+.

SVOD was the original streaming model that disrupted cable TV. It offered on-demand content with no commercials, appealing to audiences willing to pay for uninterrupted viewing.

However, the landscape is changing. Many SVOD services now offer ad-supported tiers to increase revenue and attract cost-conscious viewers.

This hybrid approach means the lines between SVOD and AVOD are beginning to blur.

In short: SVOD = subscription streaming, often without ads.

FAST stands for Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television.

FAST channels mimic the feel of traditional linear TV — scheduled programming that streams 24/7 — but they’re delivered over the internet and supported by advertising.

Unlike AVOD, where viewers choose specific on-demand shows or movies, FAST channels stream continuously, organized by genre or theme (e.g., “Crime TV,” “Classic Movies,” “Travel,” “Sports Highlights”).

Popular FAST platforms include Pluto TV, Xumo, Samsung TV Plus, and Plex Live TV.

FAST channels have exploded in popularity because they offer a familiar, lean-back viewing experience with no subscription required.

In short: FAST = free, ad-supported, linear-style streaming.

Here’s a quick snapshot of how AVOD, SVOD, and FAST differ:

Each model offers different opportunities — and limitations — for CTV advertisers.

As more viewers mix and match subscriptions, advertisers are increasingly using all three to ensure full audience coverage.

The boundaries between AVOD, SVOD, and FAST are fading fast.

Netflix and Disney+ now offer ad-supported tiers. Peacock and Hulu combine subscription and advertising models. FAST platforms are launching their own on-demand libraries.

The future of streaming will likely be hybrid, where viewers choose between paying with money (subscription) or attention (ads).

For advertisers, that means more inventory, better data, and more ways to reach audiences across every kind of streaming experience.

Understanding how each model works helps advertisers plan smarter CTV campaigns. Each serves a different role in the streaming ecosystem — and together, they make up the backbone of modern television.