Introduction
When it comes down to enjoying any audio or video content on your devices, you may be presented with the following two options.
- Online Streaming.
- Offline Downloading.
Both are the perfect choice depending on how you will use the content. To help you make a decision, we have compared both the methods and have presented a healthy argument for you to decide which suits you the best.
Downloading Vs. Streaming
Most people might be surprised by this statement, but it is the truth. In both processes, a file is being sent to the device. The key difference is that when the device gets access to the file, it simply plays the audio or video content while it’s streaming.
However, in the case of downloading, the device starts copying the original content in the storage device. You can even think of both the process as downloading where the only process saves the content in your system.
For instance, if you visit thepiratebay and stream your favorite movies, you can watch them online. However, if you download it, a copy of the original file will be saved in your system.
What Is Online Streaming?
Online streaming is the technology used to deliver content to computers and mobile devices over the internet connection. In this process, you can watch the movies without downloading the file.
Streaming usually transmits data – audio and video. This is why you can easily watch movies online. Streaming is recommended when you do not want to use your device space.
The bottom line is that online streaming is the quickest way to access content available on the internet. In addition, when you stream, you can start watching the file without the file being loaded completely.
Pros
- Its Immediate: Streaming is almost immediate. Just click the audio or video you want to watch; you can start watching them in just a few seconds.
- Doesn’t Require Storage: Streaming does not require any storage. It doesn’t download the content; instead, it simply plays it online.
- Let You Watch What You Want To Watch: You are the master of your choice. You are free to choose what you want to see.
Cons
- Needs Active Internet Connection: Streaming is only possible if you have an active, stable internet connection.
- Buffering: While watching, you might experience buffering or frequent loading if the internet connection is unstable.
What Is Offline Downloading?
Don’t get confused by the name Offline Downloading.
We all know that downloading is not possible with an internet connection. But to watch movies after the download is complete, you do not need an active internet connection.
Downloading is the process where you create a copy of the original file on your device. Once the downloading process is completed, the file remains with you permanently. This means you can watch it infinite times, share it with your friends and family, and can even carry it with you on your road trips.
Pros
- The files Are Copied To The Device: The original file is copied in your device, which helps the user watch the downloaded content whenever they feel like it.
- Don’t Need Active Internet Connection: Unline, streaming, downloaded content can be watched with an active internet connection.
- Works Even with Slow Internet Connection: Downloading can be done even with slow internet. Yes, the downloading process might slow a little, but it still works better than streaming with a slow internet connection.
Cons
- Risk Of Downloading Malware Software: Downloading content from the internet might also cause malware programs to enter your system. This might affect your device data.
- If The Computer Breaks Down, You Lose Your Content: As we have already said, the content is copied in the device. If the device breaks down, you won’t access the downloaded content.
Online Streaming Or Offline Downloading: Which Is Better?
While there may be a lot of analysis on which method to use to watch your favorite movies or TV shows, these can be important recommendations:
If you have unlimited data packs and are at a location with a strong signal, streaming is the best option.
On the other hand, if you know that the next place might have a weak connection, downloading the content beforehand will help you enjoy the movies even if there is no internet connection.