HLS vs Smooth Streaming
Developers should learn HLS when building video streaming applications, especially for cross-platform compatibility, as it is supported natively on iOS, macOS, and many other devices and browsers 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
Developers should learn HLS when building video streaming applications, especially for cross-platform compatibility, as it is supported natively on iOS, macOS, and many other devices and browsers
HLS
Nice PickDevelopers should learn HLS when building video streaming applications, especially for cross-platform compatibility, as it is supported natively on iOS, macOS, and many other devices and browsers
Pros
- +It is ideal for scenarios requiring adaptive streaming to handle varying bandwidth, such as live broadcasts, video-on-demand services, and mobile apps, due to its reliability and widespread adoption in the industry
- +Related to: mpeg-dash, video-encoding
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.
Based on overall popularity. HLS is more widely used, but Smooth Streaming excels in its own space.
Disagree with our pick? nice@nicepick.dev