IPTV or cable TV: the differences side by side
IPTV or cable TV? The differences in equipment, contract, sport, flexibility and internet side by side, so you can choose what suits your household.
Cable TV has long been the standard in the Netherlands. But more and more people wonder whether there’s another way. Is IPTV a good alternative to cable TV? That depends on what you find important. Here are the differences side by side.
The differences in one table
| Feature | Cable TV | IPTV subscription |
|---|---|---|
| How it arrives | Through the cable or your provider’s TV service | Over your internet connection |
| Equipment | Often a decoder or CI+ module | An app on your TV, stick, phone or computer |
| Contract | Often a one- or two-year term | With us 3, 6 or 12 months, paid once |
| Sport and films | Usually extra packages | Included with us |
| Watching on other screens | Sometimes, with an extra app | Yes, with the same login |
| Depends on internet | No | Yes |
Where cable TV is strong
- Not dependent on your Wi-Fi. The signal comes through the cable, so a busy home network doesn’t affect it.
- Familiar and simple. Switch on and watch, with the remote you know.
- Clear about licences. Big providers have agreements with the channels.
Where IPTV is strong
- No extra equipment. You watch on what you already have.
- Flexible. No long contracts; with us nothing renews by itself.
- Anywhere at home. The same channels on the TV, your laptop or your phone.
- Everything in one app. Live TV, sport, films and series together.
What to watch out for with IPTV
IPTV depends on your internet connection and Wi-Fi. So test it on your own TV first, on a busy evening. Read what internet speed you need and our honest explanation of whether IPTV is legal.
What suits you?
- Don’t want to change anything and only watch on the big TV? Then cable TV is fine.
- Want to watch flexibly, on several screens, without a long contract? Then IPTV is worth a try.
Try it without risk with the free 24-hour trial, or see the prices.
Frequently asked questions
Is IPTV cheaper than cable TV?
Often, yes, especially if you want sport or films, which usually cost extra with cable TV. With us a year of IPTV costs €52.99, paid once.
Can I cancel my cable subscription if I take IPTV?
You can, but first check your contract and whether your internet with the same provider continues separately. Test IPTV for a while next to your current package first.
Do I still need a cable connection with IPTV?
Only if your internet comes in through the cable. IPTV itself only uses your internet connection, whether that's cable, fibre or DSL.