You’re finally ready to go live on your stream when you notice significant delays between your input and the output broadcast. This situation can be downright frustrating and means you may be struggling with a case of high latency.

We get it. We’re experts on optimizing your stream, so in this guide, we cover everything you need to know about reducing latency. We also provide several solutions catered to different streaming scenarios so you can choose the right software to pair with your hardware. 

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What's considered ultra-low latency streaming?

While there’s no absolute consensus on what constitutes ultra-low latency streaming, it’s safe to assume that 2 seconds or less could fall under this category when it comes to broadcasting, though it varies depending on context.

Now, not every streaming scenario requires ultra-low latency streaming. For example, if you’re broadcasting a webinar to an audience where instantaneous interaction isn’t necessary, a few extra seconds of latency might not be an issue. A general rule of thumb is to ballpark low latency at 3 to 5 seconds of delay. 

Larger media meant primarily for consumption, like a TV show or movie, might have more flexibility streaming at regular latency. Regular or standard streaming latency falls between 5 to 7 seconds of delay between the stream and broadcast output. 

However, in the case of creative collaboration or any scenario where real-time interaction is necessary, ultra-low latency should be upheld at a more stringent standard. In these specialized applications, it’s ideal to opt for 200 ms of latency or less to ensure that the live collaboration is smooth and successful. 

As a result, you should evaluate what type of latency you need based on the parameters of your stream (which we cover in more detail below).

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Required latency needed for different streaming situations

Before honing in on a streaming platform, start by determining your ideal level of latency. 

Regular (standard latency) 

Standard latency works best for media designed for continuous consumption, with minimal live interaction needed. Here are some examples:

• Webinars
• Virtual classes
• TV shows
• Movies

Low latency

Low latency should be reserved for streaming scenarios requiring some level of live interaction but not necessarily continuous, active collaboration. Here are some of these scenarios: 

• Gaming 
• Live events and performances
• Sports broadcasts

Ultra-low latency

Ultra-low latency video is necessary for streaming media that requires active, creative collaboration or near-instantaneous interaction. Examples of these use cases can include the following:

• Creative collaboration while video conferencing
• Live auctions
• Real-time or interactive gaming streams  

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9 streaming platforms for these different use cases

Use this comparison overview to help determine the appropriate platform for your streaming and video quality needs. 

1. Zoom

While Zoom is highly regarded as a video conferencing platform, it also provides streaming support through Zoom Events. This streaming arm offers ultra-low latency, an in-browser production studio, and interactive features so audience members can interact with one another via text or voice throughout the stream. However, note that all Zoom Events packages cost extra in addition to the traditional Zoom platform fee. 

• Common level of latency: 200 milliseconds
• Best for: Casual video calls, webinars, courses, and classes

2. YouTube Live

YouTube Live offers both standard and low latency streaming tiers, though their lowest latency model does not support 4K resolution. This option is great for creatives, hobbyists, and professionals who have or are trying to cultivate a presence on YouTube outside the isolated stream. YouTube Live provides a live, interactive chat for audience members to use throughout the stream. 

• Common level of latency: You can select several different latency tiers, but the standard YouTube live latency for interactive streams is less than 10 seconds. 
• Best for: Gaming or commentary streaming 

3. Evercast

If you’re looking for ultra-low latency for creative collaboration or real-time remote work with colleagues, Evercast can help you create an “over-the-shoulder” experience. With video conferencing and content streaming combined, the platform has staggeringly low latency of less than 150 milliseconds globally on average, supporting stunning 4K resolution, multi-channel audio, and 10-bit color accuracy. 

Optimized for film, advertising, game development, and audio professionals, Evercast can support streaming CPU-intensive programs or assets, unlike most consumer-grade streaming platforms. 

The Evercast suite supports live streaming of any workflow in real time, HD video conferencing, and live, frame-accurate annotations for enhanced communication. Backed by 24/7 technical support and security approval from all major film studios, Evercast services can provide the protection and care that high-level projects deserve. 

Evercast allows users to stream directly from any source (any creative software, media files, NDI, even live cameras) while video conferencing with their team. With the recording feature, you can also revisit sessions with time-stamped comments and interactive playback.

• Common level of latency: 150 milliseconds global average
• Best for: Real-time, creative collaboration for remote workflows

If you’re seeking a real-time, over-the-shoulder experience for creative collaboration or working from afar, book a live Evercast demo.