Systems and methods provide for intelligently switching between cloud processing mode and edge processing mode based on a variety of criteria, such as the desired eye-tracker settings (e.g., minimum tracker rate, ideal tracker rate, and processing mode) and the available network capabilities (e.g., latency, bandwidth, and the like). The criteria used for determining whether buffered cloud processing is viable include such parameters as upload bandwidth, tolerable processing delay, buffer drain rate, buffer fill rate, and maximum session duration. The cloud processing system may be used instead of available edge processing in cases where there are benefits to doing so, e.g., the cloud processing system provides added functionality, such as improved data analytics.