Live streaming brings your content to audiences in real-time, but the technical process of delivering video over the internet introduces a delay between what happens on camera and what viewers see on their screens.
Understanding and selecting the appropriate latency mode is crucial for creating the optimal viewing experience based on your content type and audience needs.
📝 NOTE: Latency Mode options are only available when streaming via third-party software using RTMP. These settings do not apply to Uscreen Live Studio or Zoom integration streams.
🔗 Learn more about the Live Streaming Options
Understanding Live Stream Latency
Latency refers to the delay between the moment content is captured on camera and when viewers actually see it on their screens.
ℹ️ INFO: This delay occurs due to the technical process of transmitting video data across the internet.
The complete journey of your video stream includes:
Input Source (Camera)
Captures raw audio and/or video
Encoder
Compresses the raw feed and wraps it in a stream format
Ingest/Media Server
Receives the live feed, validates it, may transmux, and hands it off for processing
Transcoder
Creates multiple renditions/bitrates and enforces settings like resolution, fps, and keyframe cadence
Origin/Packager
Packages segments, and manifests/playlists, and serves as the source of truth for distribution
CDN (Content Delivery Network)
Caches and delivers segments/playlists globally with low latency
Viewer’s Player/Device
Requests the manifest, chooses the best rendition based on network conditions, downloads segments, decodes, and plays
Comparing Latency Options
Latency Mode | Delay Time | Best For | Technical Considerations |
Standard  | 20-30 seconds | Most stable viewing experience, recorded content | Works with all devices, including Chromecast |
Reduced | 10-15 seconds | Balance between interaction and stability | Compatible with most devices |
Ultra-low | 5-10 seconds | Interactive sessions, Q&As, live feedback | May cause buffering on slower connections, not compatible with all devices, like Chromecast |
💡 TIP: Standard latency is the default setting and provides the most reliable viewing experience for most audiences.
Configuration Steps
Navigate to Content > Live Streaming
Create or edit your livestream
Under the RTMP card, click Edit
Select your preferred option: Standard, Reduced, or Ultra-low
Click Save
Selecting the Right Latency Mode
Standard Latency (20-30 seconds)
Recommended for: Performances, lectures, or any content where viewer interaction isn't time-sensitive.
Pros:
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Cons:
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Reduced Latency (10-15 seconds)
Recommended for: Webinars, educational content, and events with moderate interaction needs.
Pros:
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Cons:
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Ultra-Low Latency (5-10 seconds)
Recommended for: Interactive Q&A sessions, live coaching, and events where immediate feedback is crucial.
Pros:
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Cons:
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⚠️ WARNING: Geographic location can also impact latency regardless of your settings. If you're streaming from a location far from our ingest servers, even Ultra-Low Latency may not provide significant improvements.
FAQs
Will reducing latency affect my stream quality?
Will reducing latency affect my stream quality?
Yes. Lower latency means less buffer time, which can lead to more interruptions for viewers with unstable internet connections.
What if I need real-time interaction but also stable streaming?
What if I need real-time interaction but also stable streaming?
Consider using a hybrid approach: stream with Standard latency for stability, but offer a separate Zoom link for viewers who want to interact in real-time.
Which latency setting is best for fitness classes?
Which latency setting is best for fitness classes?
For fitness instruction where form correction is important, Reduced latency offers a good balance. However, if your audience includes older or less tech-savvy members, Standard latency may provide a more reliable experience.