why do ads load faster than videos

Ads always seem to load faster than the videos we’re waiting to watch. It’s frustrating and can leave us wondering why. In this article, we explore the reasons why ads load faster than videos and what businesses can do to improve user experience.

Video vs. Ad Size

One of the most significant reasons why ads appear to load faster than videos is their size. Videos are typically large files, much larger than the average ad. For instance, a five-second ad might only be 500 kilobytes, while a one-minute video might be 50 megabytes. This difference in file size is why ads load faster than videos. The larger the file size, the longer it takes to load, which is true for videos and other media files.

Bandwidth and Hosting Requirements

Another reason why ads load faster than videos is their bandwidth and hosting requirements. Ads are typically hosted on dedicated server networks that have high-speed connections to the internet. These networks make it easier to handle the high volume of traffic that ads bring in. On the other hand, videos generally require a higher bandwidth and more significant hosting requirements. These demands can slow down a website's load time and contribute to the feeling that ads load faster than videos.

Player Technology

The technology used to play videos and ads is another factor to consider. Most ads use HTML5-based ad players that allow for fast loading and playback. These players are lightweight and optimized to work well across different devices and internet speeds. Videos, on the other hand, typically require more complex player technology and often utilize plugins to play on different platforms. This added complexity leads to longer load times and contributes to the perception that ads load faster than videos.

Improving Video Load Times

For businesses looking to improve the video load time, there are a few strategies to consider. First, compress and optimize video files to reduce their size and improve load times. Second, host videos on a dedicated server network with high-speed connections to the internet. Third, consider using HTML5-based video players that have been optimized for fast loading and playback. Finally, consider utilizing a content delivery network (CDN) to improve load times for users across different regions.

Conclusion

In summary, ads appear to load faster than videos due to their smaller file size, dedicated hosting networks, and simpler player technology. However, businesses can take steps to improve video load times, including compressing and optimizing video files, hosting on dedicated servers, using optimized HTML5-based video players, and using a CDN. By following these steps, websites can improve user experience and reduce the frustration of waiting for videos to load.