IPTV in everyday use: Telekom and 1&1 impress – significant differences in quality between providers

IMTEST and zafaco jointly present the latest IPTV network test for 2025.

The latest IPTV network test by zafaco GmbH reveals clear performance differences between the IPTV offerings of leading German Internet providers. Telekom and 1&1 deliver top marks in all test modules, while Vodafone falls significantly short of expectations with GigaTV Net.

Advanced testing methodology at the highest level

Since 2012, zafaco has been regularly analysing IPTV products under realistic everyday conditions. This year's test (24 February to 23 March 2025) is based on 649,096 individual measurements and the most comprehensive test methodology to date, divided into four dimensions with a total of 71 evaluation criteria: stability, data, telephony and IPTV.

Continuous 24/7 monitoring reveals performance fluctuations, for example in the evenings when many users are online at the same time. This provides a particularly accurate picture of the actual user experience.

Results at a glance: Telekom sets the benchmark

Telekom impresses with MagentaTV, achieving an overall score of 1.05 (‘Very good’) and coming out on top in all modules. 1&1 TV also shines with a very good performance, receiving a score of 1.21.

Deutsche Glasfaser (score 1.78) and O2 Telefónica (score 1.97) offer good, stable performance with potential for optimisation.
Vodafone came in last with GigaTV Net and a score of 2.61 (‘Satisfactory’) – mainly due to noticeable quality deficits compared to the frontrunners.

Overall ranking:

  • Telekom (MagentaTV): Very good (1.05)
  • 1&1 (1&1 TV): Very good (1.21)
  • Deutsche Glasfaser (Internet-TV): Good (1.78)
  • O2 Telefónica (O2 TV): Good (1.97)
  • Vodafone (GigaTV Net): Satisfactory (2.61)

IPTV tested under real conditions

zafaco places particular emphasis on triple-play usage (internet, telephony, television via a single connection) and complex household conditions with simultaneous use of multiple devices. Typical applications such as channel hopping, second-screen usage and parallel downloads are included in the evaluation. Measurements are taken directly at the providers' set-top boxes, which makes the results particularly realistic.

Trust in the industry

The zafaco IPTV network test is recognised as the industry benchmark. In addition to internet providers, industry partners, authorities and public institutions also use the results for market analysis and product development. The company's collaboration with the Federal Network Agency, for example in the development of official broadband measurement, underlines the trust placed in its many years of expertise.

All information about the test and methodology is available online at IMTEST.