The explosive rise of video-on-demand (VOD) has revolutionized how content is delivered and monetized. Popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ have made VOD the standard for how audiences expect to access video today: on their own time and across any device. These services use various models, such as subscriptions (SVOD), ads (AVOD), or pay-per-view (TVOD), to offer flexible viewing and monetization.
For both aspiring content creators and established media enterprises, choosing the best VOD platform is critical for maintaining control over distribution and maximizing revenue. In this article, we’ll break down how VOD works, explore its most common applications, and compare the top platforms for building and scaling a successful streaming service.
What’s VOD? Definition, benefits, and common uses
VOD refers to a content delivery model that allows viewers to watch video content at any time from any device without following a restricted broadcast schedule. It offers numerous benefits, such as flexibility, scalability, and monetization options for individuals and businesses alike.
While often used interchangeably, over-the-top (OTT) and VOD aren’t the same; they refer to different parts of the streaming experience. OTT describes the method of delivering video over the internet without traditional cable or satellite providers. VOD refers to the ability to choose what to watch and when. In short, OTT is the delivery channel, and VOD is the viewing experience.
Examples of TVOD, AVOD, and SVOD platforms, and common uses
Video on demand platforms typically fall under three primary monetization models, which are often blended. . For example, Amazon uses both SVOD and TVOD, while Hulu combines SVOD and AVOD tiers. Here are some of the most well-known examples of each:
Transactional Video on Demand (TVOD)
Viewers pay per video, either to rent or purchase. Some TVOD platforms are:
- Apple TV/iTunes – Rent or buy individual movies and shows.
- Amazon Prime Video – Pay-per-view options for new releases.
- Vimeo On Demand – Audiences can buy or rent content directly from creators.
Ad-Supported Video on Demand (AVOD)
Content is free to watch, with ads shown before or during playback. Some AVOD platforms are:
- YouTube – Most videos are free to view, supported by ads.
- Tubi – A free streaming service offering movies and shows with commercials.
- Pluto TV – Offers live and on-demand content with ad interruptions.
Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD)
Users pay a video on demand subscription for unlimited access to a content library. Some SVOD platforms are:
- Netflix – Offers thousands of titles on a monthly subscription model.
- Hulu – Provides both ad-supported and ad-free SVOD tiers.
- Disney+ – Delivers exclusive entertainment content under a single subscription.
VOD platforms serve a multitude of purposes beyond entertainment, empowering users to share pre-recorded videos for on-demand learning, standardize corporate training programs with consistent delivery, and build revenue-generating platforms with content libraries.
Explore Vimeo Streaming →
On-demand video streaming: How does it work?
On-demand video streaming follows a straightforward process:
- Upload and storage: Video files are uploaded to a VOD platform, encoded, and stored in a secure network.
- Content delivery: When a user selects a video, the platform streams it in real time and adjusts quality based on connection and device.
- Access control and monetization: Creators can monetize their videos and manage viewer access by applying paywalls with TVOD, ads with AVOD, or subscription models with SVOD.
This structure makes VOD streaming scalable, secure, and ideal for both individual creators and enterprise-level platforms.
The 8 best on-demand video platforms
Navigating the vast landscape of on-demand video platforms to find the right fit for your content and audience can be challenging. Below are some of the top platform solutions for creators and businesses looking to launch or expand their VOD streaming service. Each platform offers a unique mix of features, pricing models, and customization tools to help you manage and monetize your content effectively.
1. Vimeo on Demand
The Vimeo On Demand platform enables you to watch a huge selection of films, shorts, documentaries, and series, or sell your work directly to your audience. If you’re a Vimeo Standard member or above, you can sell your films and series the way you want, with all the power of Vimeo’s HD video player, easy-to-use tools, and access to Vimeo’s discerning audiences.
If you’re a creator, Vimeo Streaming offers a full suite of tools for creators and brands to launch their own white-label video on-demand streaming service. With ad-free hosting, tools like Vimeo’s built-in teleprompter for smoother on-camera delivery, and advanced data analytics, Vimeo helps users understand their audience and track growth over time.
Main features include:
- Monetization options such as SVOD and TVOD
- Viewer insights and subscriber trends
- Integration with popular website builders and learning management system (LMS) platforms
- Live and on-demand video support in 4K
Vimeo delivers unmatched creative control and scalability, making it the premiere choice for media businesses and professional creators alike.
Start your own streaming channel →
2. Uscreen
Uscreen is a popular VOD solution for fitness coaches, educators, and influencers. It supports SVOD and TVOD models, community tools, and custom-branded OTT apps. Uscreen offers community features, such as live chat and discussions, to enhance viewer engagement, while its analytics tools give creators insight into subscriber behavior and growth.
Plans start around $149/month, with additional fees based on features and bandwidth usage.
Main features include:
- Custom-branded OTT apps for web, mobile, and smart TVs
- Monetization via SVOD and TVOD
- Advanced analytics and user engagement tools
- Community-building features like live chats and discussions
Uscreen’s flexibility and community-focused tools make it a great option for content creators seeking to forge a strong connection with their audience.
Compare Uscreen and Vimeo →
3. Kaltura
Kaltura is an enterprise-grade VOD solution tailored for businesses and educational institutions that offers powerful internal communications features, training, and LMS integrations. The platform’s extensive API access provides flexibility for customization, while its modular monetization tools allow for scalable revenue generation.
Kaltura’s complex interface and pricing structure may be overwhelming for small businesses or individual creators. It’s best suited for large enterprises that need robust video management and distribution tools.
Main features include:
- Extensive API and SDK for integration and customization
- Advanced LMS integrations for educational institutions
- Multiple monetization options including subscription-based and transactional models
- Video hosting and live streaming with high scalability
Kaltura is ideal for larger organizations that require a flexible, enterprise-level solution that gives them full control over their video workflows.
Compare Kaltura and Vimeo →
4. Dacast
Dacast is a highly flexible VOD platform that supports both live streaming and on-demand video hosting. With monetization options like SVOD and TVOD, Dacast makes it easy to create and monetize your video content. Its white-label branding feature allows businesses to customize their platform and deliver a unique viewer experience.
Pricing starts at $39/month, but more advanced features such as paywalls and analytics come with higher-tier plans. Dacast’s streamlined interface and reliable delivery make it a good choice for both startups and established businesses.
Main features include:
- White-label branding for a customized viewer experience
- Flexible monetization options including SVOD and TVOD
- High-quality video delivery with low latency
- Advanced analytics for tracking video performance
Dacast’s combination of live streaming and VOD hosting makes it a versatile option for businesses looking to engage viewers and monetize their content.
Compare Dacast and Vimeo →
5. Muvi
Muvi is an end-to-end solution offering built-in OTT apps, billing, and content management tools. It supports all monetization models, including AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD.
Muvi’s pricing can be steep, especially for independent creators, making it more suitable for larger businesses and media networks.
Main features include:
- Built-in OTT apps for iOS, Android, Roku, and more
- Monetization through AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD
- Customizable CMS for managing video content
- Live streaming with high scalability
Muvi offers all-in-one capabilities and sophisticated customization options, making it a formidable contender for media companies and businesses looking to scale their streaming operations.
6. Wowza
Wowza is designed for developers and enterprise teams that need custom streaming infrastructure. It specializes in ultra-low latency video delivery, making it a go-to choice for organizations that require high-quality live streaming and on-demand video hosting. Wowza’s extensive API access and custom infrastructure options allow for deep integration into any workflow.
Pricing is based on usage, so it may not be the most cost-effective solution for smaller creators or businesses with modest streaming needs.
Main features include:
- Ultra-low latency video streaming for live and on-demand content
- Customizable infrastructure with API access for integration
- Scalable hosting for large-scale streaming services
- Advanced security features including encryption and DRM
Wowza’s enterprise-level streaming capabilities make it a great choice for large businesses and developers building custom streaming solutions.
7. Castr
Castr provides multi-platform streaming and video hosting with monetization capabilities. Its support for adaptive bitrate streaming ensures high-quality video delivery regardless of viewers’ internet speed, and its global content delivery network (CDN) optimizes the viewing experience worldwide.
Castr’s entry-level plan starts at $12.50/month, but more advanced features, such as paywalls and analytics, are available at higher pricing tiers.
Main features include:
- Multi-platform streaming to popular platforms like YouTube and Vimeo
- Adaptive bitrate streaming for optimal viewing
- Global CDN for fast video delivery
- Monetization through ads, subscriptions, and pay-per-view
Castr’s compelling blend of affordability and flexibility make it a strong choice for creators looking for an entry-level VOD solution with room to grow.
8. VPlayed
VPlayed offers a white-label platform that allows businesses to create their own branded streaming service. It supports all major monetization methods, including SVOD, AVOD, and TVOD, and includes security features like DRM to protect content. While it’s highly customizable, VPlayed is geared more toward larger media organizations and enterprises than individual creators.
Main features include:
- Customizable white-label streaming platform
- Multiple monetization models including AVOD, SVOD, and TVOD
- Security features like DRM for content protection
- Integration with third-party apps and systems
VPlayed is ideal for businesses looking to build a branded streaming service fortified with advanced security and customization options.
What is the best video platform app?
The best app hinges on individual or business needs. Here's how to choose the perfect VOD platform provider for you, if you're looking for high-quality VOD features, customizable players, and professional experience.
When comparing VOD platform providers, start by considering the following factors:
- Your target audience: Who are you trying to reach, and where do they watch?
- Type of content: Will you share lectures, entertainment, internal training, or all of the above?
- Privacy and security: Do you need watermarking, DRM, or password protection?
- Monetization models: Will you use TVOD, SVOD, AVOD, or a hybrid approach?
- Streaming quality and compatibility: Can your provider deliver fast, buffer-free playback across all devices?
Evaluating your needs across these factors can help you choose the best VOD platform to reach your business goals.
Host, stream, and monetize your content with Vimeo
From education and entertainment to enterprise presentations and employee training, today’s video on demand apps support a range of formats, streaming services, and revenue strategies. And as the demand for flexible, on-demand video content continues its upward trajectory, selecting the right VOD platform is paramount for scaling your content.
With Vimeo Streaming, creators and businesses can easily launch their own professional-grade VOD services. Vimeo helps users monetize their content, grow their audience, gain insights into revenue and subscriber growth trends, and easily manage and expand their video content.
Launch your streaming service with Vimeo and turn your video library into a revenue-generating opportunity.
