10 Best Open Source Video SDKs

Looking to build an app with fantastic video communication features? Do you want to enhance your project with video chat capabilities without starting from scratch? Open-source video SDK and APIs might be just what you need. In this article, we'll explore some of the top open-source video APIs, giving you a head start on your research. Let's dive in!

Essential Features in Every Open Source Video SDK

Before we delve into the list of open-source video APIs, let's discuss the key features you should be on the lookout for:

1. Multi-party video calls: Ideal for various scenarios, including chatting, meetings, webinars, and more.
2. Screen sharing: Collaborate and deliver presentations during calls with ease.
3. Virtual backgrounds: Customize your background to suit your work-from-home style.
4. Real-time messaging and whiteboards: Stay connected and collaborate seamlessly.
5. Robust security: Safeguard your data and ensure compliance with regulations like HIPAA, GDPR, and SOC2.
6. Compatibility: Ensure it works smoothly on all devices (mobile, desktop, tablet) and across various operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux).
7. Customizability: Tailor the user interface and video calls to match your brand or team's unique style.

Now, let's evaluate and find the perfect open-source video SDK to meet your requirements!

Top 10 Open Source Video SDKs

Here, we'll introduce you to ten outstanding open-source video SDK like Jisti Meet, Janus, Mediasoup, Kurento, Openvidu, Pion, Ant Media, Jitsi Videobridge, Jibri, Bigbluebutton.

1. Jitsi Meet
2. Janus WebRTC Server
3. Mediasoup
4. Kurento Media Server
5. OpenVidu
6. Pion WebRTC
7. Ant Media Server
8. Jitsi Videobridge
9. Jibri
10. BigBlueButton

1. Jitsi Meet SDK

The Jitsi Meet SDK is an open-source solution for hosting video meetings. It offers community support, a setup process that may require some familiarity with the system, and a straightforward interface. It also implements security measures to protect data.

However, newcomers might encounter scalability challenges that require a learning curve to address.

The Jitsi Meet is available as open-source software. Additional features and support can be accessed through paid options. It is advisable to explore and assess your requirements accordingly, in case you are looking here are the Jisti alternatives.

Features of The Jitsi Meet API

• Open-source solution with transparency and flexibility.
• Community support for assistance and guidance.
• User-friendly interface for easy meeting participation.
• Data protection with implemented security measures.
• Customization options for tailored usage.
• Paid options for premium features and professional support.

Limitations of The Jitsi Meet API

• Scalability challenges may require a learning curve.
• Setup complexity demands some system familiarity.
• Limited professional support compared to paid solutions.
• Resource-intensive, requiring substantial hardware resources.
• Advanced features and support are available via paid options.

2. Janus WebRTC Server

Janus stands as an open-source WebRTC server that aids developers in seamlessly incorporating real-time communication features into their applications. It provides a spectrum of flexible and customizable options that cater to a diverse range of applications.

It's worth acknowledging that the documentation might present a learning curve to grasp comprehensively. Gaining a deep understanding of the system may necessitate some dedication, but it's certainly attainable.

Features of Janus WebRTC Server

• Real-time communication Integration for applications.
• Customizability with flexible options.
• Versatility suitable for diverse applications.
• Community support from a developer ecosystem.

Limitations of Janus WebRTC Server

• Learning curve in its documentation.
• Dedication required for deep understanding.
• Complex configuration due to flexibility.
• Resource-intensive for high user concurrency.
• Limited built-in analytical support.
• User interface may not be very user-friendly.

3. Mediasoup

Mediasoup is a WebRTC media server designed for building real-time communication applications with a high degree of flexibility. It emphasizes efficient resource utilization and offers advanced features for video streaming.

However, it's important to be aware that Mediasoup, while powerful, may have a steeper learning curve for those who are new to WebRTC technology.

Features of Mediasoup

• WebRTC media Server: Designed for WebRTC applications.
• High flexibility: Offers extensive customization options.
• Efficient resource Utilization: Optimizes resource management.
• Advanced video Streaming: Provides high-quality video streaming features.

Limitations of Mediasoup

• Steep learning curve: Challenging for WebRTC newcomers.
• Complex setup: Requires time and effort for configuration.
• Limited analytical support: Insufficient built-in analytics.
• Resource intensive: Needs careful resource management.
• Community support: Support may be less accessible than mainstream solutions.

4. Kurento Media Server

Kurento, a media server celebrated for its prowess in real-time video and audio communication, showcases advanced features like computer vision and augmented reality. It's especially well-suited for unconventional applications.

To make the most of Kurento's capabilities, a significant level of expertise may be necessary.

Features of Kurento Media Server

• Enables real-time video and audio communication.
• Offers computer vision and augmented reality capabilities.
• Suitable for unconventional application scenarios.
• Available as an open-source solution with no cost.

Limitations of Kurento Media Server

• Requires a high level of expertise for optimal utilization.
• User interface may have a steep learning curve.
• Limited analytical support, necessitating external tools for in-depth analysis.

5. OpenVidu - Video Call API Free

OpenVidu is an open-source platform designed for creating WebRTC applications, particularly those with video call and video conferencing functionalities. It offers a range of features and provides comprehensive documentation to aid developers.

However, it's important to acknowledge that OpenVidu may have some limitations, particularly when dealing with more intricate use cases, which could require additional effort for integration.

Features of OpenVidu

• WebRTC application development: OpenVidu is tailored for WebRTC applications, especially video calls and conferencing.
• Comprehensive documentation: It offers extensive documentation to assist developers.
• Open source: OpenVidu is cost-free as it's open-source.

Limitations of OpenVidu

• Complex use Cases: It may require extra effort to integration with intricate use cases.
• Limited advanced features: Lacks some advanced features found in commercial platforms.
• Limited analytical support: Offers limited analytical tools for in-depth performance analysis.
• User interface: The UI may have a steeper learning curve for users and developers.

6.Pion WebRTC - Video API Free

Pion is an impressive open-source Go library tailored for creating WebRTC applications. It caters to developers who are enthusiasts of the Go programming language, offering extensive customization capabilities. However, it's essential to keep in mind that its suitability is primarily aligned with the Go programming language, which might not be universally preferred.

Features of Pion WebRTC

• Go programming language compatibility: Designed for Go enthusiasts.
• Customization capabilities: Extensive customization options for tailored applications.
• Open-source: Free to use with no financial investment required.

Limitations of Pion WebRTC

• Limited language compatibility: Primarily aligned with the Go programming language.
• Learning curve: There may have a learning curve, especially for Go novices.
• Niche audience: More suitable for developers who prefer customization.
• Community and support: Potentially fewer resources and slower issue resolution.
• Feature set: May lack certain advanced features of established WebRTC solutions.
• Integration challenges: Integration into non-Go projects could be complex.

7. Ant Media Server

Ant Media Server is an open-source media server that supports WebRTC-based video streaming and conferencing. It provides good scalability and customization options for various application requirements.

Nevertheless, it's worth mentioning that some users might find the documentation somewhat challenging.

Features of Ant Media Server

• Supports WebRTC-based video streaming and conferencing.
• Offers scalability for handling a growing number of users and streams.
• Provides customization options for various application requirements.

Limitations of Ant Media Server

• Documentation can be challenging for some users.
• May have idiosyncrasies or quirks in its functionality.

8. Jitsi Videobridge

Jitsi Videobridge is an open-source Selective Forwarding Unit (SFU) for WebRTC, dedicated to enabling real-time video conferencing and communication. It's an integral part of the Jitsi family of projects.

In larger-scale deployments, it's important to be aware of potential scalability challenges that may arise.

Features of Jitsi Videobridge

• Open-source Selective Forwarding Unit (SFU) for WebRTC.
• Seamless integration with the Jitsi family of projects.
• Cost-effective solution as it's available for free.

Limitations of Jitsi Videobridge

• Potential scalability challenges in larger deployments.
• Limited built-in analytical support.
• User interface may not be very user-friendly.

9. Jibri

Let me introduce you to Jibri, an impressive open-source tool that seamlessly integrates with Jitsi Meet for the purpose of recording and streaming video conferences. If you're involved in education or business, this could be a game-changer for you.

It's worth mentioning that Jibri is effective when used within the Jitsi Meet framework and may have limited functionality outside of it.

Features of Jibri

• Seamlessly integrates with Jitsi Meet for recording and streaming video conferences.
• Ideal for enhancing education and business video conferencing experiences.
• Open-source nature allows free exploration and usage.
• Pricing: Explore more about Jibri's pricing and options.

Limitations of Jibri

• Limited functionality outside of the Jitsi Meet framework.
• Effectiveness closely tied to Jitsi Meet, limiting its versatility.
• Learning curve for users due to a less user-friendly interface.
• Limited support resources and analytical support.

10. BigBlueButton - Open Source Video Conferencing System

BigBlueButton stands out as an open-source web conferencing system specifically tailored for online learning and collaboration. It offers a wide array of features, including video conferencing, screen sharing, and real-time collaboration.

While BigBlueButton excels in education and collaboration, customizing it for other purposes may be necessary.

Features of BigBlueButton

• Tailored for Online Learning and Collaboration.
• Video conferencing and Screen Sharing.
• Real-time collaboration with document sharing.
• Open-source, cost-effective solution.

Limitations of BigBlueButton

• Limited customization for non-educational purposes.
• Learning curve for new users.
• Specialized for education and collaboration.
• Requires technical expertise for setup and maintenance.
• Less extensive support and documentation compared to commercial options.

A Quick Comparison for 10 Best  Open Source Video  SDKs

Conclusion

When you're looking for an open-source video SDK and APIs, it's essential to consider your specific needs, budget, and your development team's expertise. Each of these has its own strengths and limitations, so it's worth doing some research to make an informed choice.

As you explore the world of open-source video APIs, one emerging player that's making waves in the industry is Dyte. The API offers a wide range of features, including real-time video capabilities, recording, and screen sharing. What sets Dyte apart is its user-friendly nature, making it an excellent choice for developers of all experience levels. Additionally, Dyte's platform is gaining attention for its robust performance, ensuring a seamless video communication experience within your app.

Now that you have a better understanding of these open-source video APIs, you can dig deeper into your research and find the one that's perfect for your project. Don't forget to consider Dyte as a promising addition to your toolkit. With its easy integration and powerful features, it's a compelling option for developers seeking to enhance their applications with video communication capabilities. Happy exploring!