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Video-on-demand platforms are experiencing varied consumption dynamics, with subscription-based services (SVOD) showing a clear advantage over ad-supported services (AVOD).

According to recent BB Media data, users spend more time on SVOD services like Netflix and Disney+ than on free, ad-supported platforms like Pluto TV and Tubi. This preference likely stems from a higher perceived quality of content and an ad-free experience.

Global Trends and Regional Preferences

Globally, SVOD users tend to spend more time on paid platforms than on free, ad-supported ones. Notably, SVOD usage peaks in the APAC (Asia-Pacific) and UCAN (U.S., Canada, and other Americas) regions, with an average of 20 hours per week in APAC and 19 hours in UCAN, compared to only 10 hours per week spent on AVOD platforms.

Significant differences also emerge in other regions:

• EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa): users consume 14 hours per week on SVOD, compared to 6 hours on AVOD.
• LATAM (Latin America): time spent on paid platforms reaches 16 hours, while free services see about 8 hours of weekly usage.

These data suggest that the perceived value of SVOD platforms translates into higher viewing times, a trend that remains steady even during busier periods like weekdays.

Viewer Behavior: Higher Binge-Watching on Weekends

During weekends, SVOD content consumption peaks, with 60% of users watching only one or two episodes during the week but switching to four or more episodes over the weekend. This trend, observed globally, indicates a strong inclination towards binge-watching, facilitated by the absence of ads.

Top Platforms: Netflix and Pluto TV Lead the Way

In terms of specific platforms, Netflix stands out as the most popular SVOD service across all regions. Weekly usage averages vary slightly by region: six hours in UCAN and EMEA, and up to seven hours in LATAM and APAC (excluding China). Preferences for AVOD platforms, however, show regional differences:

• EMEA and LATAM: Pluto TV ranks first with an average of two hours per week in EMEA and three hours in LATAM.
• UCAN: Tubi leads with four hours per week.
• APAC: Zee5 holds the top spot, excluding China.

Conclusion: SVOD Leads, but AVOD is Growing

Although SVOD services currently enjoy higher usage times, AVOD platforms continue to grow, attracting users with their free model and a continually expanding content library. This provides a viable alternative for users who prefer a cost-free option, leaving the future of the SVOD vs. AVOD competition open.

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