Are you a streamer or live video content creator wondering which live streaming software is better: Streamlabs or OBS? Deciding on the right software is important for your streaming success. Streamlabs and OBS Studio are the two most popular options, each packed with features to help you engage your audience. Both are compatible with major streaming platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook, and they offer the essential features that live video content creators need. Although OBS and Streamlabs are similar in many ways, they have some key differences. In this blog post, we’ll compare Streamlabs and OBS to help you make an informed choice. Whether you’re new to streaming or experienced, understanding the differences between these platforms will help you find the best fit for your streaming goals. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents:
What’s an OBS Studio?
Even if you’re new to streaming, chances are you’ve heard of OBS Studio. OBS is short for Open Broadcaster Software Studio. It’s a free and open-source software that is widely recognized as a pioneer in the world of online streaming. It provides streamers with a comprehensive set of tools to create professional-quality broadcasts for platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Live. OBS Studio allows streamers to capture gameplay, webcam footage, audio sources, and more, and integrates them into customizable scenes. With features like scene transitions, audio mixing, and real-time video encoding, OBS Studio allows streamers to produce engaging and dynamic content to their audience’s preferences. Its cross-platform compatibility, extensive customization options, and low resource usage make it a popular choice among streamers of all levels.
Pros of OBS Studio:
OBS Studio stands out for its exceptional features and user-friendly interface, making it a top choice for streamers worldwide. Here’s why OBS Studio is highly regarded:
- Open-Source and Free: OBS Studio is open-source software, meaning it’s freely available to everyone.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, OBS Studio is compatible with all of these operating systems. Its cross-platform compatibility ensures that you can stream regardless of your operating system, providing flexibility and convenience.
- Highly Customizable: OBS Studio offers great customization options, allowing you to tailor your stream to your exact preferences. From scene layouts to audio and video settings, you have full control over every aspect of your broadcast.
- Low Resource Usage: Despite its extensive features, OBS Studio is designed to be resource-efficient. It uses minimal CPU and GPU resources, ensuring smooth performance even on lower-end systems.
Cons of OBS:
- Steep Learning Curve: OBS Studio can be challenging for beginners due to its complex interface and extensive features. It may take time to learn how to use it effectively.
- Lack of Built-in Widgets and Overlays: Unlike other streaming software, OBS Studio doesn’t come with pre-made widgets and overlays. Users need to create their own or find third-party options, which can be time-consuming. However, there are tools available, like CheckYa, that make adding overlays easier. We’ll dive into this further down below.
- Limited Customer Support: Getting help with OBS Studio can be difficult, as it relies mainly on community support. There’s not much dedicated customer service available for troubleshooting.
- Complex Advanced Configuration: Setting up advanced features in OBS Studio, like encoding settings or scene transitions, can be complicated. Users might need to spend time digging into technical documentation or getting help from experienced users.
- Occasional Stability Issues: While OBS Studio is generally stable, it can sometimes crash or have stability issues, especially on lower-powered computers or with demanding settings.
- No direct monetization option: OBS does not come with built-in features for monetizing streams. This means that creators using OBS do not have direct options for receiving donations or setting up subscription alerts. But you can make use of tools like CheckYa to receive donations by following the steps outlined below.
Monetization with OBS Using CheckYa:
If you’re using OBS to stream and want to receive donations, you can do so by using tools like CheckYa. With CheckYa, you can create a personalized donation link that your viewers can use to donate directly to your PayPal or Stripe account.
Here’s how you can set it up:
- Create an account on CheckYa: Go to www.checkya and click “Get Started” at the top right. Sign up with just your email address and a password.
- Connect your Stripe or PayPal account: In the “Settings” tab at the bottom left, go to “Payments” and connect your preferred payment method.
- Enable your PayMe Page: From your profile section, navigate to settings and set up your PayMe page by adjusting your default currency and preset donation values.
- Copy and paste your PayMe link: Once your PayMe page is ready, copy the link and paste it into your live streaming platform. For instance, on Twitch, navigate to your channel settings, go to the Social Links section, and add your PayMe Page URL. Your donation link will now be shown on your channel profile allowing viewers to easily click and donate while you stream.
If you want to display alerts every time you receive a donation to encourage donations from other viewers, you can also achieve that using CheckYa using its Overlay feature. Here’s how to add the overlay to your Twitch live stream:
- Enable the CheckYa overlay: Go to the “Streaming” tab on CheckYa, select the overlay type, and copy the URL provided.
- Add the overlay to OBS: Open OBS and go to the scene where you want to add the overlay. Click the “+” button to add a new source, choose “Browser,” and name the source.
- Enter the CheckYa link: In the browser source properties, paste the URL of the CheckYa link and adjust the frame rate settings as desired.
- Position the overlay: Save your changes and position the browser source on your scene where you want the overlay to appear.
- Test your overlay: Preview your scene to ensure the overlay appears correctly. Start your Twitch stream, and your overlay link should be visible to your viewers.
That’s it! You’ve now configured CheckYa to receive donations and display streaming alerts via overlay on your stream.
What is Streamlabs?
Streamlabs is an all-in-one platform designed to improve the streaming experience for content creators across various platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Live. It offers a suite of tools and features to streamline the process of live streaming, including widgets, overlays, alerts, and chatbot integration. Streamlabs enables streamers to engage with their audience more effectively by providing customizable elements like donation alerts, subscriber notifications, and interactive chat features. With its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with popular streaming platforms, Streamlabs simplifies the broadcasting process, allowing content creators to focus on creating compelling content and fostering meaningful interactions with their viewers.
Pros of Streamlabs:
Streamlabs offers several benefits that simplify streaming for live streamers and creators:
- Easy Setup: Streamlabs provides a user-friendly interface for quick and straightforward setup, making it accessible even for beginners.
- Free Customization: With Streamlabs, creators can customize their streams with overlays, alerts, and widgets at no cost, allowing them to showcase their unique style.
- Monetization Tools: Streamlabs includes built-in features for earning money from streams, such as donation systems and subscription alerts, making it easy for creators to generate revenue.
- Mobile Streaming: Streamlabs enables streaming directly from mobile devices, providing flexibility for creators to engage with their audience from anywhere, anytime.
Cons of Streamlabs:
- Resource Usage: Streamlabs can use a lot of computer resources, especially for those with weaker hardware. Running many features at once, like overlays and alerts, might slow down your system or cause it to lag.
- Limited Advanced Settings: Compared to other streaming software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs might not have as many advanced options for things like encoding or audio settings. This could be frustrating if you need more control over these settings.
- Dependence on Streamlabs: Streamlabs heavily promotes its own features and services, which could make you reliant on them. Relying too much on Streamlabs for donations or merchandising might limit your options.
- Mobile Features: While Streamlabs supports mobile streaming, its mobile app might not have all the features of the desktop version. This could be a problem if you need advanced features while streaming on your phone or tablet.
Streamlabs Vs OBS comparison:
| Aspect | Streamlabs | OBS Studio |
| Ease of Use | More user-friendly | Steeper learning curve |
| Customization Options | Integrated features | Extensive customization |
| Monetization | Built-in options | Requires external tools |
| Mobile Streaming | Dedicated mobile apps | Third-party options available |
| Performance | Better on powerful computers, consistent on all systems | Consistent on all computers |
| CPU Usage | Higher CPU usage | Lower CPU usage |
| Pricing | $0–149/year | Free |
| Features | Screen recording; screen capture; live video broadcasting; multi-scene capture; customizable themes and backgrounds; built-in payments | Screen recording; screen capture; live video broadcasting; multi-scene capture |
| Video Quality | High quality | High quality |
| Audio Quality | High quality with mixing capabilities | Good quality, lacks mixing |
| User Interface | Easy to use | Can be complex |
| Compatibility | Windows 10; Mac OS X 10.14 or higher | Windows 8/8.1/10; Mac OS X 10.13 or higher; Linux |
Streamlabs Vs OBS: So which is better?
When comparing Streamlabs and OBS, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences as a streamer. Consider factors such as ease of use, integrated features, customization options, and monetization capabilities. Evaluate which platform aligns best with your streaming goals and workflow. Both Streamlabs and OBS offer powerful tools for creating engaging streams, so choose the one that best suits your individual requirements.
That said, here are some key considerations for each platform:
OBS (Open Broadcaster Software):
- OBS is highly customizable, offering extensive control over stream settings and configurations.
- It is open-source and free to use, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Ideal for experienced streamers who prefer flexibility and customization options.
Streamlabs:
- Streamlabs provides a user-friendly interface with integrated features like widgets, overlays, and alerts.
- Offers built-in monetization options, simplifying the process of earning revenue from streams.
- Suitable for beginners and those looking for a streamlined streaming experience without extensive setup.
Ultimately, your choice between Streamlabs and OBS depends on your experience level, desired features, and long-term streaming objectives. Consider the strengths of each platform and choose the one that best aligns with your individual needs and preferences.
FAQ
1. Which is easier to use: Streamlabs or OBS?
Streamlabs is generally more user-friendly, suitable for beginners. OBS offers more customization but has a steeper learning curve.
2. Can I customize my streams better with Streamlabs or OBS?
OBS provides extensive customization options, while Streamlabs offers integrated features with less control.
3. Can I make money from streaming with both Streamlabs and OBS?
Yes, both support monetization. Streamlabs has built-in options, while OBS needs external tools.
4. Which is better for mobile streaming: Streamlabs or OBS?
Streamlabs has dedicated mobile apps, making it easier for mobile streaming. OBS has third-party options for mobile.
5. Are there performance differences between Streamlabs and OBS?
Performance varies based on system specs and settings, but both are capable streaming platforms.
6. Can I use third-party tools with Streamlabs and OBS?
Yes, both support third-party plugins and extensions for added features.
7. Is customer support available for Streamlabs and OBS?
Streamlabs offers direct support, while OBS relies on community forums and documentation.
