IPTV vs Cable TV in Australia 2025 - Complete Comparison Guide

IPTV vs Cable TV - What's the Difference?

IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) delivers TV content over the internet, while Cable TV (like Foxtel) uses physical cables to transmit signals. In Australia, IPTV services like Luna Streams are rapidly replacing traditional cable TV subscriptions due to better value, more flexibility, and superior channel selection.

Key differences between IPTV vs Cable TV:

• Delivery Method: IPTV uses your internet connection; Cable TV requires physical installation
• Pricing: IPTV typically costs 50-70% less than cable TV packages
• Channels: IPTV offers 20,000+ channels vs cable's limited packages
• Flexibility: IPTV has no contracts; Cable TV often requires 12-24 month commitments
• Setup: IPTV setup takes minutes; Cable TV requires technician installation

Learn more about how IPTV works in Australia or see why Australians are switching from cable to IPTV.

Pricing Comparison: IPTV vs Cable TV

When comparing IPTV vs Cable TV pricing in Australia, IPTV offers significantly better value:

Cable TV Pricing (Foxtel Example)

• Basic Package: $49-$79/month (limited channels)
• Premium Package: $99-$139/month (includes sports/movies)
• Installation: $200-$300 one-time fee
• Contracts: 12-24 month lock-in periods
• Additional Costs: Set-top box rental, premium channel add-ons

IPTV Pricing (Luna Streams Example)

• 3-Month Plan: $45 AUD ($15/month)
• 6-Month Plan: $60 AUD ($10/month)
• 12-Month Plan: $75 AUD ($6.25/month)
• 24-Month Plan: $130 AUD ($5.42/month)
• Installation: Free (DIY setup in minutes)
• Contracts: No lock-in, cancel anytime
• All Channels Included: No extra fees for premium content

Savings: Switching from cable TV to IPTV can save Australian households $600-$1,500+ per year. Compare our IPTV subscription plans to see how much you could save.

Channel Selection: IPTV vs Cable TV

Channel selection is where IPTV vs Cable TV shows the biggest difference:

Cable TV Channels

• Limited to provider's package (typically 50-200 channels)
• Australian free-to-air channels included
• Premium channels require expensive add-ons
• International channels are limited and costly
• Sports packages are separate subscriptions

IPTV Channels

• 22,500+ live channels included in base price
• All Australian free-to-air channels
• International channels from 100+ countries
• Premium sports channels (Fox Sports, ESPN, beIN, Sky Sports)
• PPV events included
• 80,000+ movies & series on-demand library
• No additional fees for premium content

With Luna Streams IPTV service, you get access to channels that would cost hundreds of dollars per month on cable TV, all included in one affordable IPTV subscription. Explore our Australian channels and movies guide.

Setup & Installation: IPTV vs Cable TV

Cable TV Setup

• Requires technician appointment (1-2 week wait)
• Physical cable installation to your property
• Set-top box installation and configuration
• May require drilling holes in walls
• Setup time: 2-4 hours
• Cost: $200-$300 installation fee

IPTV Setup

• No technician required - DIY setup
• Works with existing internet connection
• Install IPTV app on Smart TV or use IPTV box
• No physical installation needed
• Setup time: 10-15 minutes
• Cost: Free

Setting up IPTV is simple and can be done in minutes. See our complete how to set up IPTV in Australia guide or learn how to install IPTV on Firestick.

Streaming Quality & Reliability

Cable TV Quality

• Generally reliable signal (weather-dependent)
• HD quality standard
• 4K available on premium packages (extra cost)
• Signal can be affected by cable damage or weather
• Limited to one location (home installation)

IPTV Quality

• HD and 4K streaming included
• Anti-Freeze Technology for stable streaming
• Optimized for Australian NBN connections
• Works anywhere with internet connection
• Multiple device streaming simultaneously
• 99.9% uptime guarantee

Luna Streams IPTV service provides reliable HD/4K streaming optimized for Australian internet speeds. Learn about IPTV with 4K support or check internet speed requirements for IPTV.

Device Compatibility: IPTV vs Cable TV

Cable TV Devices

• Requires provider's set-top box
• Limited to TV connected to cable
• Mobile apps available but limited functionality
• No multi-device streaming on basic plans

IPTV Devices

• Works on Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Android TV)
• Firestick, Apple TV, Chromecast
• MAG boxes and Android TV boxes
• Mobile phones and tablets (iOS & Android)
• Web browsers
• Multiple devices simultaneously

IPTV offers superior device compatibility. Works with any IPTV app or IPTV box for maximum flexibility. See our best IPTV apps for Smart TV guide.

Contracts & Flexibility

Cable TV Contracts

• Typically 12-24 month contracts
• Early termination fees ($200-$500)
• Price increases during contract period
• Limited flexibility to change packages
• Automatic renewal unless cancelled

IPTV Flexibility

• No contracts - cancel anytime
• No early termination fees
• Flexible plan durations (3, 6, 12, 24 months)
• Change plans easily
• 24-hour free trial to test service

IPTV gives you complete control over your IPTV subscription with no lock-in contracts. Try before you buy with our free trial.

Additional Features Comparison

Cable TV Features

• Basic EPG (Electronic Program Guide)
• Limited catch-up TV (7 days)
• Recording requires additional hardware
• No on-demand library

IPTV Features

• Comprehensive EPG with 7-day catch-up
• Time-shift and replay functionality
• 80,000+ movies & series on-demand
• Multi-device streaming
• Parental controls
• Favorites and custom channel groups
• Regular content updates

IPTV offers more advanced features and better value. Learn about the best IPTV service features available.

IPTV vs Cable TV: Which Should You Choose?

Choose IPTV If:

• You want to save money (50-70% cheaper)
• You need more channels and content
• You want flexibility (no contracts)
• You have good internet (25+ Mbps)
• You want to stream on multiple devices
• You prefer DIY setup over technician visits
• You want international channels

Consider Cable TV If:

• You have unreliable internet connection
• You prefer traditional TV service
• You don't mind paying premium prices
• You're comfortable with long-term contracts

For most Australian households, IPTV is the better choice due to superior value, flexibility, and channel selection. Learn how to choose the best IPTV provider in Australia.

Next Steps

Ready to make the switch from cable TV to IPTV? Here's what to do:

1. Compare Plans: View our IPTV subscription plans and pricing
2. Test the Service: Start your 24-hour free IPTV trial to experience the service
3. Choose Your Device: See our guides on best IPTV apps or IPTV boxes
4. Set Up IPTV: Follow our complete setup guide
5. Cancel Cable: Once IPTV is working, cancel your cable TV subscription

For more information, read our guide on why Australians are switching from cable to IPTV or compare the best IPTV service in Australia.