RTMP vs RTSP vs SRT: which streaming protocol should you use?
RTMP, RTSP and SRT are three ways to move live video from your encoder to a server. They’re not interchangeable in every situation — here’s what each does well and how to choose.
RTMP — the universal default
RTMP is the most widely supported ingest protocol: OBS, vMix, hardware encoders and nearly every platform speak it. Latency is moderate (a few seconds) and it’s rock-solid over a stable connection. For most creators sending one feed to a relay or platform, RTMP is the right default.
SRT — for unreliable networks
SRT adds error recovery and encryption on top of UDP, so it holds up far better over lossy or long-distance connections (mobile, remote venues, contribution feeds). If your network is shaky or you’re sending over the public internet across distance, SRT is often the more resilient choice.
RTSP — for cameras and devices
RTSP is common on IP cameras, NVRs and surveillance gear. You’ll mostly use it when pulling from a device that natively outputs RTSP rather than from streaming software.
Which should you pick?
Use RTMP unless you have a reason not to. Reach for SRT when your connection is unreliable or long-haul, and RTSP when your source device speaks it. The good news: you don’t have to commit — a relay that accepts all three lets you ingest however suits the situation.
Frequently asked questions
Is SRT better than RTMP?
For lossy or long-distance networks, yes — SRT recovers from packet loss better. On a stable local connection, RTMP is simpler and just as good.
Can I ingest RTSP from an IP camera?
Yes — Stream Repeater accepts RTSP, so you can bring in a camera or device feed and relay it onward.