IPTV, OTT, cable and satellite TV: what is the difference?

The main ways to watch TV compared: pros and cons of IPTV, OTT streaming, cable (DVB-C), satellite (DVB-S) and terrestrial (DVB-T) broadcasting.

Updated: 15 October 20263 min read

In short

The main difference is how the signal travels: by radio waves (terrestrial, satellite), over a coaxial cable network (DVB-C) or over the Internet Protocol (IPTV, OTT).
In the narrow sense, IPTV runs on the provider's own managed network, while OTT runs over the open internet on any connection.
Many providers offer a mix: a traditional signal in the living room and an app on mobile devices – known as TV Everywhere.

The five main ways to watch TV

Terrestrial TV (DVB-T, DVB-T2): Digital broadcasts from ground transmitters, received with a roof or indoor aerial. Usually offers fewer channels.
Satellite TV (DVB-S, DVB-S2): Received with a satellite dish and receiver. Covers large areas, but heavy rain or snow can disturb reception.
Cable TV (DVB-C): A digital signal delivered over a coaxial cable network and decoded by the TV's built-in tuner or a set-top box.
IPTV (managed network): TV delivered using the Internet Protocol but over the provider's own managed network, usually with a set-top box.
OTT (Over-The-Top) streaming: TV and video delivered through an app over the open internet. Works with any internet provider.

Comparison at a glance

General comparison; individual providers' offers may differ.
Aspect	Terrestrial	Satellite	Cable (DVB-C)	IPTV / OTT
What do you need?	Aerial	Dish and receiver	Cable connection	Internet plus an app or box
Number of channels	Fewer	Many	Many	Many, depending on the package
On several devices	Awkward	Awkward	Limited	Yes, even on a phone
Interactive features	Limited	Limited	Depends on provider	Typically extensive
Weather dependence	Slight	Can be significant	None	None
Internet dependence	None	None	None	Complete

IPTV versus OTT

The two terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference. A managed-network IPTV provider is also your internet provider, so it can guarantee network capacity for TV traffic. An OTT service is independent of your internet provider: it works anywhere with suitable internet, but quality depends on your connection.

IPTV advantage: predictable quality and lower latency for live broadcasts.
OTT advantage: independent of your ISP, available while travelling, no separate box needed.
Both can be entirely legal – lawfulness is determined by the provider's rights, not by the technology.

What is TV Everywhere?

TV Everywhere is a service model in which one subscription lets you watch TV on several screens: on the TV in the living room, on your phone on the go, on a tablet in the bedroom. Streamy follows this approach too: one account works on Smart TVs and on Android and iOS devices.

Which one should you choose?

If you want the simplest solution with no installation and have good internet: an OTT/IPTV app.
If you want to watch on many devices, with separate settings for each family member: a TV Everywhere service with profiles.
If your internet is weak or unreliable: cable or satellite TV, possibly supplemented by a mobile app.
If you only watch a few basic channels: terrestrial broadcasting may be enough.

Our provider checklist helps you decide.

Frequently asked questions

Which gives the best picture quality?

It is not the technology but the programme's resolution and the delivery bitrate that determine quality. With good internet, IPTV/OTT can deliver HD or 4K pictures just as sharp as satellite or cable.

Can I have cable TV and an IPTV app at the same time?

Yes. Many people watch cable in the living room and use an app on mobile devices. Some providers offer both within one subscription.

Does OTT work with any internet provider?

Yes, an OTT service is independent of who your internet provider is. Quality depends on the speed and stability of your connection.

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