IPTV vs OTT: what is the difference?
IPTV vs OTT explained: how live-channel IPTV services differ from OTT streaming apps in content, delivery, devices and price, and when to use each.
Quick answer
Both use the internet. In everyday use, "IPTV" means live TV channels with a programme guide, watched through a player app with a login. "OTT" means streaming apps from media companies, each with its own catalogue and app. Many homes use both.
The terms overlap technically, but people use them for different things.
Side by side
| IPTV | OTT apps | |
|---|---|---|
| Main content | Live channels with a guide | The app owner's own catalogue |
| App | Any compatible player | The service's own app |
| Feels like | Traditional TV | A library |
| Live sport and news | Core strength | Varies by app |
Using both
Many households keep one or two streaming apps for their own shows and use IPTV for live channels, sport and news.
More comparisons: IPTV vs cable comparison and IPTV vs streaming.
IPTV vs OTT: questions and answers
Both use the internet; IPTV usually means live channels with a guide, OTT means streaming apps.
For live TV, sport and news, IPTV is closer to traditional TV.
Yes, many homes do.
