| | Streaming video | Non-streaming video |
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File formats | RealMedia WindowsMedia QuickTime
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How it works | Video is "streamed" over the Internet and played in real time on the user's computer. Playback begins shortly after streaming starts. No files are downloaded or stored on user's hard drive. | The video file is downloaded in its entirety to user's computer, where it is then viewed using one of several video players. |
What it's good for | Videos over three minutes. Live broadcasts of concerts, news events, or corporate presentations.
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Download time | Seems to load quickly because playback begins almost immediately. | Potentially slow downloads with nothing to entertain you while you wait. |
Playback quality | Playback quality varies, depending on connection speed, available bandwidth, and other factors. Frame rate erratic. Image quality unpredictable.
| Playback quality is consistent and smooth, though download size restrictions may necessitate lower quality video. Image quality and frame rate are determined in editing process.
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Equipment required | Requires special streaming servers, which are expensive both to buy and to operate because they use so much bandwidth (although some are available free). | No special server required. |
Advantages | | Control over image quality and frame rate. No special server required. Can be saved to hard drive. Can be emailed or transferred on disk.
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Disadvantages | | |