HLS vs Smooth Streaming

Developers should learn HLS when building video streaming applications, especially for cross-platform compatibility and adaptive streaming scenarios meets developers should learn smooth streaming when building video streaming applications that require adaptive bitrate streaming for reliable playback across diverse network conditions and devices, such as in enterprise media delivery, live broadcasting, or video-on-demand services. Here's our take.

HLS

Nice Pick

Developers should learn HLS when building video streaming applications, especially for cross-platform compatibility and adaptive streaming scenarios

Pros

• It is essential for delivering high-quality video to mobile devices, smart TVs, and web browsers, as it handles network fluctuations by adjusting video quality in real-time
• Related to: dash, mpeg-dash

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Smooth Streaming

Developers should learn Smooth Streaming when building video streaming applications that require adaptive bitrate streaming for reliable playback across diverse network conditions and devices, such as in enterprise media delivery, live broadcasting, or video-on-demand services

Pros

• It is particularly useful in environments where Microsoft technologies like Azure Media Services are integrated, as it provides efficient streaming with features like live encoding, DVR functionality, and broad client support including iOS, Android, and web browsers
• Related to: adaptive-bitrate-streaming, http-live-streaming

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. HLS is a protocol while Smooth Streaming is a platform. We picked HLS based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

HLS wins

Based on overall popularity. HLS is more widely used, but Smooth Streaming excels in its own space.