Low-Latency Streaming: Complete Guide [2025 Update]

Low-latency streaming is critical for live broadcasts, video calls, online events, and interactive applications. In 2025, businesses and developers need reliable tools to deliver video with minimal delay — measured in milliseconds, not seconds.

What is Low-Latency Streaming?

Low-latency means reducing the time between capturing video and displaying it to viewers. Standard protocols like HLS often add 15–30 seconds of delay. For sports, auctions, gaming, or production workflows, this is unacceptable. Low-latency protocols bring delay down to 0.2–3 seconds or even below 200 ms.

Main Low-Latency Protocols in 2025

SRT (Secure Reliable Transport)

• Latency: 150 ms – 3 seconds depending on network conditions (using Callaba).
• Strengths: Secure transport, error correction, good for contribution and cloud routing.
• Use cases: Broadcasting, remote production, reliable delivery over the public internet.

WebRTC

• Latency: Typically below 500 ms, sometimes as low as 100–200 ms.
• Strengths: Browser-native, ideal for interactive applications and calls.
• Use cases: Video conferencing, webinars, ultra-interactive live events.

NDI (Network Device Interface)

• Latency: Around 100 ms on local networks, higher when used over WAN or cloud.
• Strengths: Professional production standard, integrates cameras, switchers, and software tools.
• Use cases: Studio and cloud production, multi-camera workflows, broadcast environments.

SRT vs WebRTC vs NDI: Comparison

SRT is best for reliable long-distance contribution. WebRTC is unmatched for real-time interactivity. NDI is a production backbone, with low-latency inside local or cloud-based workflows.

Choosing the Right Low-Latency Solution

The choice depends on your project. For video calls or audience engagement — WebRTC. For transporting high-quality broadcast feeds over the internet — SRT. For professional production pipelines — NDI.

Conclusion

Low-latency is no longer optional in 2025. Whether you are building an interactive app, broadcasting a sports event, or managing cloud production, choosing the right protocol is key.

Callaba offers a professional low-latency solution combining SRT, WebRTC, and NDI in one platform. Start using Callaba Cloud Event Production Suite for ultra low-latency workflows today.