Livestreaming Delay & Latency

There is a slight delay in the process of the recording until it reaches the viewer. Some delays are intentional to allow applications and systems to properly sync and process data. Other delays occur due to network connection, streaming platform settings, and location. This article covers the different types of livestreaming delays and their purpose or function in providing a high quality broadcast to your viewers.

In this article:

Switcher Studio Video Monitor Delay

Switcher Studio has a built-in delay between what is happening live and what you see in the app. The default delay, also called latency, is about 500 milliseconds, and it is intentional. The delay provides a short buffer to allow the Switcher Studio app to synchronize audio and video in order to process the sources for optimal video output.  Although it is not possible to completely eliminate the delay, you can adjust it using the Wi-Fi Optimization setting in the Outputs tab of your switcher device.

There are three options, which have the following delays:

  • Low-Latency Mode: 250 milliseconds

  • Standard Wi-Fi Mode: 500 milliseconds (default)

  • Reinforced Wi-Fi Mode: 1,000 milliseconds (1 second)

For step-by-step instructions on changing this setting, check out the article Wi-Fi Optimization Mode.

Audio Monitoring Delay

When monitoring audio using headphones, you may notice a lag behind the realtime audio. However, the audio will sync with the video output, which you can verify in the Live pane in the Switcher app interface. This will not impact the synchronization of the video and audio for your viewers.

Broadcasting Delay

There is a short delay between what you see on your switcher device and what your audience sees on the platform you are broadcasting to (e.g. Facebook, YouTube). A 10-60 second delay is typical for most streaming platforms. Additionally, the delay can vary for every viewer depending on their internet speed, location, and a number of other factors.

Keep in mind that your audience will be viewing the broadcast on their own device and everything will feel real-time for them. It is the same experience with live TV, which also introduces a delay to the audience.

If there is delay that is significantly longer than 60 seconds, there could be an issue with the network. We recommend the article Optimizing Settings for a Better Broadcast to help identify the underlying issue and how to resolve it.

Keyword(s): delay, latency, audio, broadcast