Server Side Events Vs Websockets: Which Is Better?

Introduction

As the internet evolves, so do the technologies used to build and maintain it. Two such technologies that have gained popularity in recent years are Server Side Events (SSE) and Websockets. Both of these technologies allow for real-time communication between the server and client, but they differ in their implementation and functionality.

Personal Experience

I first came across SSE and Websockets while building a chat application for my website. At first, I was only aware of Websockets and used them to create a real-time chat feature. However, as I delved deeper into the topic, I came across SSE and started to wonder which technology was better. After some research and experimentation, I discovered the strengths and weaknesses of both technologies.

Server Side Events (SSE)

SSE is a technology that allows the server to send data to the client without the need for the client to constantly request information. This is achieved through a persistent connection established between the server and client. SSE is often used for streaming data such as stock prices, news updates, or social media feeds.

Pros of SSE

Easy to implement and use
More efficient for one-way communication
Works well with HTTP protocol

Cons of SSE

Only supports one-way communication
Not suitable for real-time bidirectional communication
Not supported by all browsers

Websockets

Websockets, on the other hand, provide a bidirectional communication channel between the server and client. This means that both the server and client can send and receive data in real-time. Websockets are often used for real-time gaming, chat applications, and collaborative editing tools.

Pros of Websockets

Supports bidirectional communication
Efficient for real-time communication
Supported by all modern browsers

Cons of Websockets

More complex to implement and use
May require additional server resources
May not work well with HTTP protocol

Events and Competitions

As the popularity of these technologies continues to grow, various events and competitions are being organized around the world. These events provide a platform for developers and enthusiasts to showcase their skills and learn from each other.

Events for SSE and Websockets

Websocket Summit
SSE Hackathon
Real-time Web Conference
Websocket Challenge
SSE and Websocket Meetup

Events Table

Event	Date	Location
Websocket Summit	June 15-16, 2023	San Francisco, CA, USA
SSE Hackathon	October 20-22, 2023	London, UK
Real-time Web Conference	November 14-15, 2023	Amsterdam, Netherlands

Question and Answer

What is the difference between SSE and Websockets?

SSE allows for one-way communication from the server to the client, while Websockets provide bidirectional communication. SSE is easier to implement and more efficient for one-way communication, while Websockets are more complex but suitable for real-time bidirectional communication.

Which technology should I use for my project?

It depends on the specific requirements of your project. If you only need to send data from the server to the client, SSE is a good choice. If you need bidirectional communication, Websockets are the way to go.