How does WebRTC compare to other video streaming protocols for low latency?

2 What is RTMP?

RTMP stands for Real-Time Messaging Protocol. It is a protocol that was developed by Adobe for streaming media between a flash player and a server. RTMP uses TCP to ensure reliable delivery of data, but this also adds latency and overhead. RTMP streams are usually split into chunks and sent over HTTP or HTTPS, which adds another layer of latency. RTMP is not supported by most browsers natively, so it requires a plugin or a transcoding service.

3 What is HLS?

HLS stands for HTTP Live Streaming. It is a protocol that was created by Apple for streaming media over HTTP. HLS works by breaking the video into small segments, usually 2-10 seconds long, and delivering them as a playlist of files. The client can choose the best quality segment based on the network conditions and the device capabilities. HLS is widely supported by browsers and devices, but it has a high latency due to the segment size and the buffering time.

4 What is DASH?

DASH stands for Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP. It is a protocol that is similar to HLS, but it is based on an open standard and has more features. DASH also divides the video into segments and delivers them as a manifest file, but it allows for more flexibility and customization. DASH supports multiple codecs, resolutions, bitrates, and subtitles. DASH also has a lower latency than HLS, because it can use smaller segments and faster switching algorithms.

5 How does WebRTC compare to other protocols?

WebRTC has several advantages over the other protocols when it comes to low latency video streaming. First, WebRTC does not require a server or a plugin, which reduces the cost and the complexity of the setup. Second, WebRTC uses UDP and RTP, which are faster and more responsive than TCP and HTTP. Third, WebRTC supports adaptive bitrate, encryption, and NAT traversal, which improve the quality, security, and connectivity of the stream. However, WebRTC also has some drawbacks. For example, WebRTC does not support multicast, which means that it consumes more bandwidth and resources for large-scale broadcasts. WebRTC also has less compatibility and support than HLS and DASH, which are more widely adopted by browsers and devices.

6 How to choose the best protocol for your use case?

When choosing a protocol for low latency video streaming, there is no definitive answer. The best choice depends on your use case, requirements, and preferences. You should consider factors such as the size and type of your audience, the quality and reliability of your stream, and the cost and complexity of your infrastructure. Depending on these factors, one protocol may be better suited than others. For instance, if you need minimal delay and no server, WebRTC may be the best option. On the other hand, if you need high quality and compatibility, DASH may be more suitable. Additionally, if you need moderate latency and simplicity, HLS might be the best option. Lastly, if you need low latency and legacy support, RTMP is likely the best choice.