Live Streaming Software is more accurately described as a software encoding programme. At the most basic level, it converts video input into a digital format for playback on different devices — for example a smartphone, tablet and desktop PC. But there’s a lot more these platforms can help you achieve, elevating your stream production to the next level.
There are a number of options, both free and paid for. We recommend Lightstream, OBS or vMix, so let’s stick with those.
In addition to making the stream viewable to audiences on different devices, Live Streaming Software is necessary if you want to use different cameras, combine audio sources, add graphics during a stream, employ a range of effects, or broadcast across multiple platforms and channels.
Simply put, you will need Live Streaming Video Software and a Stream Engine to achieve the most professional and engaging results.
Below you’ll find the pros and cons of our three recommended Live Streaming Video Software packages. Take a look and decide which suits your needs (and budget) best.
Lightstream
Pros
Quick set up process and very easy to use out of the box
Free service with dedicated support team
Not very demanding on CPU usage
Powerful production studio available in your browser
Cons
Doesn’t offer as many high end features for top productions like vMix
Stream output is usually 720p
Main 3 streaming options are to Twitch, Facebook and YouTube
vMix
Pros
High production value
Dedicated support team
Top of the range product with up to 1000 inputs and high end features
Great for inputting a variety of file types / inputs
Offers dedicated call feature as a live interview solution, which runs really smoothly
Cons
Pro version with all features is expensive
Windows only
Overwhelming interface if using a single monitor and no USB controllers
OBS
Pros
Completely free to use, and open-source so constantly evolving
Works on Windows, Mac, Linux
Highly customisable with light CPU usage
Cons
Unable to multistream
Difficult interface for beginners
No dedicated support team
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