So, before sticking it out with OBS Studio, why not look at these first? You don’t need to settle for an app you find confusing or one that limits what you can do. These are the best OBS Studio alternatives.
1. Streamlabs OBS
Streamlabs started as an add-on for other streaming apps. Users mainly used it for overlays on their Twitch streams, like visual alerts for donations, the chatbox function to interact with their audience, and more.
Since most Streamlabs users paired it with OBS Studio, Streamlabs took inspiration from that and combined it with its widgets to create a powerful app. The company also made it a more efficient, so it doesn’t consume as much processing power.
Furthermore, Streamlabs OBS looks and feels much like OBS Studio, so if you’re transitioning then you’ll feel right at home. It’s also much simpler to use, making it friendly for newbie streamers. Best of all, Streamlabs offers many features natively in the app, allowing you more creative options right out of the box.
Overall, we think Streamlabs is one of the best OBS Studio alternatives, and is especially perfect software for streaming on Twitch.
2. XSplit Broadcaster
XSplit Broadcaster initially started in 2009 as a screen capture device. The following year, it was developed into a fully-fledged digital video mixer. It’s designed for both live streaming and recording, so whether you want to go live or want to record your screen for later broadcast, XSplit is up to the task.
However, while the app is free to use, you have to get a subscription to get its maximum potential. Free accounts are limited to four scenes and have an overlaid watermark when the app is used as a virtual camera.
The main advantage XSplit offers is its pre-made broadcast setups. When you’re launching it for the first time, you can pick between PC Gaming, Console Gaming, Online Talk Show, Podcast, and Presentation. So, no matter what you’re live streaming, you can get started in just a few clicks.
3. Lightstream
Most live streaming software is created for Windows or Mac. However, if you want to stream from a Chromebook or don’t want to install additional software, you can start streaming with Lightstream.
You can use this cloud-based streaming service on most popular browsers, like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Safari.
This service is best for console players who want to stream and don’t want to deal with confusing setups. It also allows you to add personalizations and third-party integrations so you can better interact with your audience.
The only downside to Lightstream is that it only offers a seven-day free trial before you have to purchase a subscription. However, its affordable monthly cost and ease of use make it a good choice for most game streamers.
4. Wirecast
If you want something more robust than OBS Studio, Wirecast is the way to go. However, bear in mind that the free version has a few limitations; like a video watermark, and it doesn’t allow isolated output recording, which is used to save data from individual video feeds.
However, if you purchase a license, you receive access to unlimited audio and video inputs. You also get a stock library of over 500,000 assets you can use in your stream—including titles, overlays, and more.
Plus, if you’ve invested in camera and streaming equipment, you can use the paid license to make the most out of it. This lets you have advanced features like remote pan-tilt-zoom camera control, audio effects, and virtual sets and backgrounds. You can also invite up to seven guests to co-stream alongside you.
5. vMix
When quality is what you’re after in your stream, vMix is your best bet. It lets you stream at 4K, allowing your audience to enjoy your content at the highest possible quality. It also enables you to have up to eight people onboard your stream directly—no third-party app like Zoom is needed.
With a Pro license, you get additional features like the possibility to have two external outputs, two fullscreen outputs, and four virtual outputs simultaneously. It also has remote pan-tilt-zoom camera control, so you can move your video capture devices without leaving your computer.
vMix offers multiple license tiers. You can choose from the affordable Basic license to the most expensive Pro license. You can also opt for a monthly subscription, which lets you have all features at a more affordable rate.
However, its full license is one of the most expensive on the market. Nevertheless, the flexibility of the payment plans means that you can start on a lower plan and then upgrade as you grow your streaming capabilities.
It’s Easy to Start Your Stream Today
There are many ways to start live streaming, and there’s no one best app for it. It all depends on your need, purpose, budget, and goals.
Some apps are suitable for those new to streaming and those who want something to start streaming without much setup. In comparison, some apps are great for advanced users who require advanced functionalities like remote camera control and multiple outputs.
There are also options that sit in the middle—they’re easy to use while letting you have granular control over your stream. But best of all, most apps allow you to install plugins and add-ons to make your stream more interactive.
Whatever streaming app you choose, the most important thing is that you create quality content. After all, your audience watches your stream to either be entertained or to learn. And as long as you give them what they want, you will get the following you desire.
