Live Streaming is a fast-growing medium for creators. The ability to live broadcast content directly to your audience is unbeatable and helps you build a strong community feeling with your viewers. That said, live streaming isn’t always the most straightforward process. An essential part of streaming any type of content is your streaming software, but how do you know which one is right for you?
In this guide, we take you through 8 of the best live streaming software available for different use cases so that you can make an informed decision before you get started.
TL;DR
Streaming software converts video or audio input into a digital format for live streaming.
When choosing a streaming software, make sure to think about budget, number of inputs, the ability to include remote guests, and to locally record your stream (amongst other things)
You’ll need a camera, mic, streaming software and platform, and good lighting to get started with live streaming.
Also known as ‘encoding software,’ streaming software is key to streaming high-quality video or audio over the internet to major live streaming platforms, social media platforms, and other applications.
What does live streaming software do?
Streaming software is called a ‘software encoding program’ that converts video or audio input into a digital format that can be played across various devices and platforms.
In addition, most live streaming software allows you to maximize audio and video quality, switch between multiple audio/video inputs, live mix during your broadcast, and customize your stream for a personal touch.
You’ll also see references to hardware encoders that carry the same function, but we don’t look at them in this article.
What is a live streaming platform?
A live streaming platform is the final destination for the content converted by your streaming software.Live streaming platforms are essentially video hosting platform that allows you to broadcast your content. Some platforms let you stream across different channels simultaneously to maximize your reach and exposure.
Popular examples include Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Live, and LinkedIn.
What is the best stream software?
Understandably, all creators looking to tap into the world of live streaming will want to use the best software available. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Depending on your specific budgetary, functionality, and content creation needs, your criteria for streaming software will be different.
Factors to consider when choosing the best streaming software
Before selecting a streaming software, here are a few of the factors that you should take into account:
Budget and available pricing plans
Before you can consider additional functionality, you need to have a good idea of how much (if anything) you can pay for your streaming software. Although the free plan might be plenty, often, if you opt for a premium plan, you’ll gain access to exclusive features and extended functionality.
Multiple Inputs
The flexibility and freedom to include more than one video source are critical for live video streaming. For example, if you’re a gamer, you may want both your screen and yourself to be visible. Your software encoder should enable you to seamlessly switch between your video inputs during your broadcast.
Live Mixing Abilities
If you want the creative freedom to include other media (audio or visual) in your stream, take a look at what kind of live mixing is possible with the streaming software you have in mind. In addition, if your live stream is branded, keep an eye out for software that provides for customization with logos, transitions, and more.
Local Recording of Your Stream
You may think live streaming is all about the live element. However, the ability to locally record your broadcast in full HD means you can reuse your content and allow your viewers to replay the stream!
Ability to Include Guests
Depending on the type of content you’re live streaming, you may want the ability to include remote guests in your live stream.
Supported Platforms
Although most streaming software will support and be compatible with the major streaming platforms, it is good practice to verify this. You should also look for streaming software that allows you to broadcast to several platforms at once (i.e., a multistreaming platform). This is essential for maximizing your reach and streaming your content to a diverse audience.
Supported Operating Systems
You’ll need to check that your ideal streaming software is compatible with your computer’s operating system.
What Equipment Do I Need to Live Stream?
Although every streamers’ setup looks a little different, here are the essential pieces of equipment you’ll need to start live streaming:
Video Camera or Webcam
If you’re just starting, chances are your computer’s built-in webcam will do the trick. However, if you’re a stickler for quality, you can invest in an external camera or webcam. Whatever you choose, ensure your camera has an HDMI port to ensure it’s compatible with your capture card (more on this later).
The options available to you will come down to your budget, but you’ll be able to find something to suit your needs.
Microphone
A good-quality microphone is an absolute must for live streaming. Although you can usually get away with mediocre video quality, you should not compromise on your audio - this is what maintains audience engagement. Luckily, there is a wide variety of mics available for every budget. Why not find the best microphone for your setup using our guide?
Capture Card
If you’re new to live streaming, you may not be aware that you’ll need a capture card. This device transfers your video from your camera to your live streaming setup and is necessary if you’re using a software encoder (which, we presume you are).
Good Lighting
Although it can be easy to overlook lighting, it pays to know its value. Good lighting is key to a professional-grade live stream. It instantly maximizes your stream’s production quality and helps keep your viewers engaged.
Streaming Software / Software Encoder
As we’ve seen, the software encoder is the software that converts your content for it to be streamed. As we’ll see below, several options are available that cater to different budgets and needs.
Stable Internet Connection
As far as possible, try and ensure that you’ve got a robust, stable, and reliable internet connection. This will ensure your stream is consistent and as high quality as possible.
Streaming platform
Once you’ve got everything in place, you’ll need to identify the final destination for your stream. This choice will depend on your target audience, content genre, and ultimate aims for your stream.
8 Best Streaming Software in 2023
Here we've gathered the best live streaming software available for a variety of use cases:
Riverside gives you the best of both worlds. Easily live stream on Riverside or to other major streaming platforms and get an HD local recording of your broadcast. Simply sit down to record and start live streaming without the need for an encoder.
Price: Free plan, Paid plans start from $15/month.
Supported Operating Systems: N/A, Riverside is web browser-based.
Multiple inputs: Yes, share your screen and your camera simultaneously.
Local recording: Yes, and if you include guests, their video and audio will be locally recorded on a separate track.
Guests: Yes, have up to 7 remote guests.
Supported live stream platforms: LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Twitch via direct integration; any other platform via custom RTMP.
Multiple inputs: Yes, compatible with a variety of sources.
Recording: Yes, local recording with multitrack audio.
Guests: Only if you use a video/audio call software like Discord.
Supported live stream platforms: Multistream to major platforms simultaneously.
Other features:
Stream and record in 4k with no lag.
Social media chat integration with Facebook, Twitch, and Youtube.
Branded transitions and elements.
Live illustrations.
Customizable interface for improved user experience.
Scene presets.
Automated noise suppression.
Best Streaming Software Overall
The best streaming software for you depends on your needs and what features are most important for you. To help you out, we've listed some of the best live streaming software based on their use cases.
Best for streaming and recording
If you're looking to record your stream, you'll want to make sure you're using software that can capture high-resolution video. In this case, it's best to find software that records locally so your internet connection won't impact your recording quality. For this we suggest Riverside. You'll be able to multistream to various platforms, and invite audience members for live call-ins, all without sacrificing recording quality. With Riverside, you can record in up to 4K resolution with separate tracks for audio and video files for each participant in your livestream. If recording is your priority this is a sound option.
Start recording with Riverside
Easily record high-quality podcasts & videos remotely
For those on a budget, there's no need to worry! You can still stream with quality software. Although OBS has a bit of a learning curve, it's a great option for those on a budget as it offers a lot of features completely free. For beginners who might find OBS a little overwhelming, Streamlabs is the way to go or you can also try Twitch Studio.
Best for Professional Events
If you're hosting a live streaming event, you'll want a platform that can host a large audience, but also provide interactive tools to engage with them. Your best options here are either Wirecast or Riverside.
Best for E-Sports, Gamers & Console Gameplay
For the gamers, you'll want live streaming software that includes high-quality screen recording, as well as webcam and audio recording. Some livestream gamers also enjoy special effects and customization templates. From our list you can try Lightsream Studio, vMix, or X-Split Broadcaster for E-sports or gaming streaming.
Best live editing software
Just because you're streaming live doesn't mean you can't edit as you go. You may want to mix content live or just add special effects. Some options for live video editing software include Riverside, vMix, and X-Split Broadcaster although most of the options above have some live video editing features.
Streaming software FAQs
Is there better software than OBS?
As we’ve seen, OBS isn’t the only streaming software out there. Many different options may cater better to what you’re looking for.
What streaming software should I use in 2023?
The answer to this all depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a professional and effective solution, why not try Riverside.fm? If you’re on a budget and looking for streaming software that is easy to use, give OBS or Streamlabs OBS a try.
What's an alternative to OBS?
All of our recommendations above are reliable alternatives to OBS, offering some of the same features and some additional functionality.
Is it better to stream from twitch or OBS?
OBS is a software encoder, while Twitch is a live streaming platform, so there’s no accurate comparison here. If you stream to Twitch using OBS, then you’ll most probably have an excellent quality live stream.
What can I use instead of Streamlabs OBS?
Streamlabs OBS is an excellent option for beginners and live streamers new to streaming. Once you’re ready to move on, you could try Riverside.fm or VMix, for example.
Which is better, OBS or XSplit Broadcaster?
It depends on what you’re looking for. OBS offers a great budget option and might be appealing because it’s open-source and customizable. On the other hand, XSplit offers extensive professional functionality because it’s a premium product.
Do most streamers use OBS?
OBS is one of the most popular streaming software out there, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only one. Streamers commonly use all of the software we’ve listed above.
Should I use OBS to record?
OBS has excellent screen recording capability and will most likely do the trick.
Riverside.fm is an audio-video tool that collapses the pod/broadcast studio experience into your browser. The service captures lossless audio and up to 4K video locally, syncs it, and uploads as you go.
Riverside.fm is an audio-video tool that collapses the pod/broadcast studio experience into your browser. The service captures lossless audio and up to 4K video locally, syncs it, and uploads as you go.
Riverside.fm is an audio-video tool that collapses the pod/broadcast studio experience into your browser. The service captures lossless audio and up to 4K video locally, syncs it, and uploads as you go.
“YouTube has the infrastructure to introduce audio hosting and origination, and match it to video with all the rich analytics it already provides. A seamless creator experience, plus SEO marketing tools, plus the benefit of being a platform most have been conditioned to equal. Give it a turn-key opportunity to activate a more cohesive strategy around both video and audio, to the benefit of all parties.”
A.J. Feliciano | Head of Podcast Network
“People are working from home more and more. Audio-only is not as in-demand because the need to multitask while commuting is no longer there.”
Stone Roshell | Head of Podcast Production
“Live streaming may become the biggest way to grow using video for your podcast.”
Stone Roshell | Head of Podcast Production
“With major platforms like Spotify, TikTok, and YouTube putting more resources into video podcasts.. now is a uniquely opportune moment for smart creators to harness that energy by investing in video for audience growth.”
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