Key Takeaways
- MPEG and HLS are video streaming protocols.
- MPEG is a video file format, while HLS is a video streaming protocol.
- HLS is best for live streaming, while MPEG-DASH is best for on-demand streaming.
- HLS is more compatible with Apple devices, while MPEG-DASH is more compatible with other devices.
- MPEG-DASH only allows having a single stream with a particular bitrate for a particular resolution, while HLS allows multiple streams with different bitrates for a particular resolution.
- HLS uses the MPEG transport stream to stream videos online, but it also uses other video file formats such as MP4 and TS.
- HLS is typically delivered using HTTP or HTTPS, while MPEG-DASH uses other transmission protocols.
Encoding and Bitrate Adaptation
The main difference between MPEG and HLS lies in how each protocol handles encoding and bitrate adaptation.
MPEG-DASH only allows having a single stream with a particular bitrate for a particular resolution. This means that the video quality remains constant throughout the streaming process. On the other hand, HLS allows for multiple streams with different bitrates for a particular resolution.
This allows for adaptive bitrate streaming, where the quality of the video can be adjusted based on the user's internet speed and device capabilities.
HLS is an adaptive bitrate protocol, which means that the client device and server dynamically detect the internet speed of the user and adjust the video quality accordingly. This ensures a smooth streaming experience, even in situations where the internet connection may be unstable.
In contrast, MPEG-DASH also supports bitrate adaptation, but the adaptation is done by the client, not the server.
This means that the client device is responsible for adjusting the video quality based on the available bandwidth.
Streaming Quality and Compatibility
In terms of streaming quality, there is not much difference between MPEG and HLS. Both protocols offer adaptive streaming and similar levels of quality and latency. However, MPEG-DASH has the advantage of offering better quality with lower bitrates.
This means that it can deliver high-quality video even with limited bandwidth.
When it comes to compatibility, HLS is more compatible with Apple devices. It is the preferred streaming protocol for Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs. On the other hand, MPEG-DASH is more compatible with other devices and platforms.
It can be used on a wide range of devices, including Android smartphones, smart TVs, and web browsers.
MPEG and HLS are two different video streaming protocols that offer adaptive streaming and similar levels of quality and latency. The main difference between the two lies in how they handle encoding and bitrate adaptation.
MPEG-DASH allows for a single stream with a particular bitrate, while HLS allows for multiple streams with different bitrates.
Additionally, HLS is more compatible with Apple devices, while MPEG-DASH is more compatible with other devices and platforms.
Ultimately, the choice between MPEG and HLS depends on the user's needs and requirements. If you are looking for a streaming protocol that is best suited for live streaming and compatible with Apple devices, HLS is the way to go.
On the other hand, if you need a protocol that is best suited for on-demand streaming and compatible with a wide range of devices, MPEG-DASH is the better option.
Links and references
- HLS versus MPEG-DASH HTTP Video Streaming Protocols Compared from OTTVerse
- HLS versus MPEG-DASH Comparison Between Video Streaming Protocols from LinkedIn
- MPEG-DASH versus Apple HLS versus Microsoft Smooth Streaming versus Adobe HDS from Bitmovin
- HLS vs MPEG-DASH Comparison Between Video Streaming Protocols from Gumlet
- What is MPEG-DASH? MPEG-DASH versus HLS for Livestreaming from Resi
- HLS versus MPEG-DASH: A Live Streaming Protocol Comparison for 2022 from Dacast
My article on the topic:
In this article I answer common questions about MPEG, including what it is, how it works, and its benefits:
Frequently asked questions about mpeg
Related articles:
In this article I explain the key differences between MPEG and AVI video formats and help you understand which one is best for your needs:
What is the difference between mpeg and avi
In this article I explain the key differences between MPEG and MP3 file formats and why understanding them is important for audio and video enthusiasts:
What is the difference between mpeg and mp3
In this article I explain the key differences between MPEG and H.264 video compression formats and why it matters for your video streaming experience:
What is the difference between mpeg and h264
In this article I discuss the differences between MPEG and MOV video formats and help you decide which one is better for your needs:
Did you find this article useful? I bet others will too.