Network congestion, weak Wi-Fi, and overloaded connections are the common causes. When the network is busy, packets arrive at uneven intervals, which shows up as choppy audio or video.
Webinar Glossary
Jitter
Jitter is the variation in delay of data packets across a network, which can cause choppy audio or video.
What is jitter?
Jitter is the variation in the delay of data packets as they travel across a network. When packets arrive at uneven intervals, audio and video can become choppy, robotic, or out of sync. Steady packet timing keeps a call smooth.
Jitter vs. latency
Latency is the overall delay between sending and receiving data. Jitter is the inconsistency in that delay. You can have low latency but still get poor quality if jitter is high, because packets arrive unevenly.
What causes jitter and how to reduce it
Jitter often comes from network congestion, weak Wi-Fi, or overloaded connections. To reduce it, use a wired connection where possible, close bandwidth-heavy apps, and make sure your network can handle live video.
Jitter and webinar quality
Smooth live sessions depend on a stable connection. Before an important webinar, test your setup, and run a quick microphone test and webcam test so you catch issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes jitter?
What is the difference between jitter and latency?
Latency is the total delay between sending and receiving data, while jitter is the variation in that delay. Low latency can still feel poor if jitter is high.
How do I fix jitter?
Use a wired connection where possible, move closer to your router or reduce Wi-Fi load, and close bandwidth-heavy apps. A stable network is the main fix.
What is acceptable jitter for video calls?
Lower is better, and generally jitter under about 30 milliseconds keeps audio and video smooth. Higher values start to cause noticeable choppiness.
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