Connected TV Platforms: List Of Top CTV Providers (2025)

A look at the past and a summary of the present to see how far we've come.

by Melissa Yap

Connected TV Platforms: List Of Top CTV Providers (2025)

6 Min Read

In 2025, the Connected TV (CTV) landscape is more dynamic than ever, offering marketers a plethora of platforms to choose from. This article highlights the top CTV platforms and providers, detailing their unique features and advertising capabilities. Whether you’re looking to maximize reach or optimize ad spend, this guide will help you navigate the best options available.

What Is a Connected TV Platform?

A Connected TV platform is a service that delivers television content via internet streaming, bypassing traditional cable or satellite methods. These platforms, such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV, allow users to access a wide variety of on-demand and live content from various streaming apps.

For advertisers, CTV ad platforms offer advanced targeting and measurement capabilities, making streaming TV advertising a powerful tool for performance marketing campaigns.

Connected TV vs Over-The-Top (OTT)

The terms OTT and CTV are often used interchangeably because they’re essentially the same thing with a slight distinction.

CTV refers to the streaming of digital content on an internet-enabled television set, while over-the-top (OTT) describes the delivery of content to any device, not just smart TVs. Therefore, CTV advertising is essentially OTT advertising with living room quality content.

Connected TV vs Linear TV

Now that we know what OTT is, let’s define linear.

Linear TV is defined as TV programming viewed on a predetermined schedule through a traditional satellite or cable box setup. Rather than the on-demand viewing that you’d get from streaming services, you’ll need to tune in at specific times on specific channels to see the shows you want on linear.

Therefore, traditional linear TV advertising is the act of marketing your business or service to this market during prime-time viewing.

Benefits of Connected TV Platforms

Connected TV platforms offer numerous benefits that enhance both the viewing experience and advertising capabilities. The main advantages are:

1. Improved Viewing Experience

Connected TV platforms offer high-definition streaming and on-demand content, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Users can enjoy a vast array of shows and movies with superior picture and sound quality.

2. Precision Content Targeting

These platforms enable advertisers to deliver highly targeted content based on viewer demographics and behavior. This ensures that audiences receive more relevant and engaging advertisements.

3. Integration with Smart Devices

Connected TVs seamlessly integrate with other smart devices, allowing for a unified home entertainment system. Users can easily control their viewing experience using smartphones, tablets, and voice assistants.

4. Access to Diverse Streaming Services

Users gain access to a broad spectrum of streaming services, from popular platforms like Netflix and Hulu to niche channels. This variety ensures there is always something available to suit every viewer’s preference.

5. Advanced Interactive Capabilities

Connected TV platforms offer interactive features such as clickable ads and personalized recommendations. These capabilities provide a more engaging and personalized viewing experience for users.

CTV Platforms Timeline

Before we discuss the connected TV platforms and providers, let’s take a look at the history of CTV.

With all of that introductory information out of the way, let’s dive into our list of CTV platforms!

1. Smart TVs

Smart TVs come with built-in internet connectivity and pre-installed streaming apps, providing a seamless and integrated viewing experience without the need for external devices.

Popular examples include Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony Bravia, which offer access to platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. These TVs often feature voice control and AI-enhanced picture quality, making them a convenient choice for modern households.

2. Streaming Media Players

Streaming media players are external devices that connect to TVs, enabling access to a wide range of streaming services.

Top examples include Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Apple TV, which support a plethora of apps such as Prime Video, YouTube, and HBO Max. These players are known for their user-friendly interfaces and portability, allowing for easy streaming on any TV.

3. Gaming Consoles

Gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch double as powerful streaming devices.

In addition to high-quality gaming, these consoles offer access to all of the most popular streaming apps. This dual functionality makes them a versatile entertainment hub for both gamers and streamers.

4. Computers and Laptops

Computers and laptops provide flexible streaming options, allowing users to watch content on websites and through downloadable apps.

Streaming apps are easily accessible on devices from brands like Apple, Dell, and HP. This flexibility makes laptops and computers ideal for both on-the-go viewing and at-home entertainment.

5. Smartphones and Tablets

Smartphones and tablets offer the ultimate portability for streaming, with access to nearly all streaming platforms via dedicated apps.

Devices like the iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel can stream Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube directly. This makes them perfect for personal viewing, whether at home or on the move.

6. Set-Top Boxes

Set-top boxes connect to traditional TVs and provide access to internet-based streaming services, often through a subscription model.

Examples include cable providers’ boxes like Comcast’s Xfinity X1 and satellite services like DirecTV. These devices offer a hybrid experience, combining traditional TV channels with modern streaming capabilities, often featuring DVR functionality and voice control.

Why You Need MNTN Performance TV

Viewers are streaming content across more devices than ever—from smart TVs and gaming consoles to smartphones and laptops. To keep up, advertisers need a solution that delivers seamless, high-quality ad experiences across every CTV platform. MNTN Performance TV ensures your brand stays in front of the right audience, no matter where they’re watching. Here’s how:

Premium CTV Inventory: Advertise on top-tier, ad-supported streaming networks where viewers are actively engaged.
MNTN Matched: AI-powered audience targeting ensures your ads reach the most relevant viewers based on intent and behavior.
Verified Visits™: Connect ad exposure to website visits, providing clear attribution for your CTV campaigns.
Reporting Suite: Access real-time performance insights, from brand awareness to lower-funnel conversions, all in one dashboard.
Automated Optimization: AI continuously refines targeting, bidding, and ad delivery to maximize efficiency and ROI.

If you’re exploring CTV platforms, choose one designed for performance. Get started with MNTN’s self-serve software—sign up today.

CTV Platforms: Final Thoughts

Connected TV platforms have revolutionized how audiences consume content, offering advertisers unparalleled opportunities to connect with viewers through precision targeting and immersive formats. By leveraging the strengths of leading CTV providers, brands can stay ahead in an evolving digital landscape and maximize their campaign impact in 2025 and beyond.