7 Best Streaming Software Solutions (2024)

The world of video is changing. We are moving from an era of static video content to an interactive livestream.

With attention spans getting shorter and shorter, fans want engaging content with interactive elements.

Streaming software is the answer. These tools allow you to stream live videos, chat with fans, integrate interactive content, collect payments, and more.

Given that 79% of total mobile phone use will be devoted to livestreaming by 2022 (and as this number is expected to increase), it is essential to understand streaming software.

But there are a lot of options on the market.

In this ultimate guide, I focused on streaming capabilities, video quality, integrations, capabilities of video editing, price, support, and more to provide you with the best software.

Let's get started.

What is the best streaming software?

Here is a list of the best streaming software for YouTube, Twitch, and more.

1. Restream.

Best streaming software in the world

Restream is positioned as a leader in the field of online streaming, offering the possibility of broadcasting simultaneously on more than 30 platforms.

With its innovative features and integrations with popular streaming software, Restream is ideal for those looking to maximize their online reach and engagement.

Features

• Multicast : Broadcast simultaneously on a variety of platforms like Twitch, YouTube, Facebook.
• Real-time platform failover : Edit and add channels during the broadcast.
• Promotion and analysis tools : Plan events, measure the popularity and engagement of your flows.
• Customizable built-in chat : Interact with your live audience with a customizable chat box.
• Performance monitoring : Track frame drops, bit rate, and FPS.
• Centralized metadata update : Manage metadata for all feeds in one place.
• Automatic alerts : Keep viewers informed on platforms like Facebook, Discord, and Twitter.
• Integrated CTA button : Engage your audience with calls to action.
• Chat moderation : Filter out inappropriate content in the discussion.

Pricing

• Gratuit : Basic functions with limitations.
• Standard ($16/month) : maximum 6 hours of recording per stream.
• Professional ($41/month) : Streaming pre-recorded videos, storing 10 videos, recording up to 10 hours per stream.
• Premium ($83/month) : Increased capacities with storage of 25 videos, recording up to 20 hours.
• Business ($249/month) : Complete offer with storage of 50 videos, recording up to 20 hours per stream.

Restream stands out for its ability to effectively manage multi-platform broadcasts and offers powerful tools to analyze and engage the audience. The service is tailored to a variety of users, ranging from casual streamers to businesses with more complex broadcast needs.

Try Restream risk-free for 7 days.

2. LiveStorm

LiveStorm is a versatile solution for webinars and live broadcasts, suited to a variety of business needs.

Features

• Live webinars and broadcasts : For interactive and engaging sessions.
• Multiple integrations : Increases productivity through a variety of integrations.
• Detailed analyses : Precise monitoring of session performance.

Pricing

• Free (0€/month) : 20 minutes per session, 30 participants, unlimited team members.
• Pro (79€/month annual billing, 99€/month monthly) : Up to 4 hours/session, 100 participants.
• Business (On quotation) : Up to 4 hours/session, 3,000 participants, VIP support.
• Company (On quotation) : Up to 12 hours/session, 3,000 participants, VIP & SLA support, advanced features like training and SAML SSO.

LiveStorm excels at interactive webinars, offering options ranging from a free plan to high-end business solutions.

Do a LiveStorm free trial

3. StreamYard

StreamYard is a user-friendly and flexible cloud multi-streaming platform that is ideal for live streaming across multiple platforms.

Features

• Live multistreaming : Simultaneous broadcast on multiple platforms.
• Screen sharing : Present your content dynamically.
• Customization : Personalize your streams with logos, overlays, and backgrounds.

Pricing

• Free (0$) : Basic features, 2 hours of recording/month, 6 participants.
• Basic ($20/month, save $60 billed annually) : All free features, 50 hours of storage, unlimited streaming, 10 participants.
• Professional ($39/month, save $120 billed annually) : All basic features, 250-viewer webinars, Full HD, multistream up to 8 destinations.

StreamYard is an accessible option for beginners in streaming, offering a free plan and more advanced options for professionals.

4. OBS Studio/Streamlabs

OBS Studio is a top choice for those looking for maximum personalization and flexibility in their live broadcasts.

Features

• Advanced editing and mixing : Create professional streams with total control.
• Custom transitions : Personalize your streams for a unique experience.
• Integration with Restream : Combines the editing capabilities of OBS with the multistream streaming of Restream.

Pricing

• Gratuit : OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS are available for free.

OBS Studio is ideal for advanced editing, while the combination with Restream offers a complete solution for multistreaming.

Try OBS Studio for free

5. OneStream

OneStream is a comprehensive streaming solution, ideal for sharing content across multiple social media platforms simultaneously.

Features

• Broadcast on more than 40 platforms : Maximize your reach by broadcasting on a variety of platforms.
• Scheduling publications : Plan your broadcasts up to 60 days in advance.
• Team management : Centralize the management of team members under a single account.
• Varied download options : Upload files, use the camera, and share your screen.
• Custom RTMP streaming : Use a server URL and stream key for custom streaming.

Rates

• Gratuit : Unlimited streaming, 5 minutes max per stream, 1 social account, 5 GB max file size.
• Basic ($10/month) : Pre-recorded multi-casting, 15 minutes max per stream, 5 GB max file size.
• Standard ($39/month) : Pre-recorded and real-time multi-casting, 1 hour max per recorded stream, unlimited file size.
• Professional ($89/month) : 8 hours max/streaming recorded, unlimited file size.

OneStream stands out for its ease of use and versatility, making it possible to broadcast effectively on a large number of social platforms.

With options ranging from a free plan to professional solutions, OneStream is suited to a diverse range of users, from individuals to large businesses.

Try OneStream

6. Dacast

Dacast is a platform of choice for video monetization and VOD streaming, offering comprehensive solutions for hosting, livestreaming, and managing professional broadcasts.

Features

• Secure video hosting : Robust content management to store recorded and live video.
• OTT monetization : Advanced monetization features, including automatic currency conversion, subscription models, pay-per-view, and advertising.
• API-based video platform : Customize with APIs and SDKs to build mobile applications and OTT platforms.
• Advanced analytics : Performance monitoring with customized dashboards and reports.
• HTML 5 video player : Streaming compatible on all devices, including mobiles.
• 24/7 technical support : Accompanied by an extensive knowledge base and an online community.

Pricing

• Starter ($39/month) : Basic plan for essential streaming needs.
• Event ($63/month) : Designed for one-time live events.
• Scale ($188/month) : For more extensive and complex streaming needs.
• Personalized : Options tailored to large businesses.

Dacast is ideal for businesses and content creators looking for a reliable streaming platform and effective monetization tools. With a 30-day free trial, Dacast allows you to explore its capabilities before committing to a subscription.

Try Dacast

7. XSplit Broadcaster.

XSplit Broadcaster is a livestreaming and gameplay recording application designed to provide a high-quality streaming experience, facilitating live streaming and recording with advanced features and an intuitive interface.

Features

• Scene preview editor : Edit and adjust your scenes before airing.
• NVIDIA NVENC : Optimize the quality and performance of your broadcasts.
• Intuitive editor : Integrate interactive elements like subscriber goals and follower alerts.
• 4K streaming at 60 FPS : Outstanding picture quality for professional streaming.
• Multistreaming : Simultaneous broadcast on multiple platforms.
• Chat widget support : Integration with Twitch, Facebook, and YouTube chats.
• Custom transitions : Choice of stinger transitions or preloaded styles.
• Whiteboard and annotations : For live illustrations and analysis.
• Live status display : Tracking subscribers, followers, bits, super chats, etc.

Pricing

• Pro version (starting at $2.50/month) : Access to all advanced features.
• Free plan : Limited functionality for basic use.

XSplit Broadcaster is tailored for professional streamers and gamers, offering a full range of tools for top-quality streaming.

Its ability to manage complex broadcasts with ease makes it a preferred solution for those looking to stand out in the field of livestreaming.

Start with XSplit Broadcaster.

8. Twitch Studio

Twitch Studio is a dedicated streaming application designed specifically for Twitch users, providing an optimized and customizable live streaming experience.

Twitch Studio is ideal for gamers and content creators new to Twitch, offering an integrated solution for professional-quality streaming with minimal effort.

Features

• Extensive customization : Adapt your feed to reflect your brand or personality with customizable layouts and overlays.
• Content mix : Easily integrate iOS devices for instant screen sharing.
• Extensive integration : Enjoy built-in activity streams, chat, and alerts without the need for additional plugins.
• Simplified configuration : Automatic hardware configuration and detection for quick and professional installation.
• Desktop audio capture : Easily share your computer audio with the stream.

Pricing

• Gratuit : Twitch Studio is a free streaming software offered by Twitch.

Twitch developed it to help fans broadcast video games live from the same platform. Here is my step-by-step guide to How to stream on Twitch.

Its ease of use and customization make it an attractive option for those looking to stream on Twitch.

Start with Twitch Studio

9. Lightstream.

Lightstream is an innovative solution for livestreaming, taking advantage of cloud-based technology to provide a smooth and flexible user experience.

This platform is ideal for those who want to stream live content without the complexity associated with heavy hardware configurations.

Features

• Drag-and-drop editor : Easy customization of broadcasts with an intuitive interface.
• Extensive 3rd party integration : Compatible with animated graphics, live alerts, and social media displays.
• Inviting live guests : Facilitates the involvement of external speakers in your live events.
• Cloud-based architecture : Access and management of content entirely via web browser, without software installations.
• Lightstream Studio : Advanced management and personalization of livestreams.
• Lightstream Arsenal : Analysis tools to optimize the growth and development of the chain.
• Lightstream Cloud : Streaming production API for deep customization and integration.
• Remote control : Easy stream management via a smartphone.
• Chat support : Ongoing assistance for all technical questions.

Pricing

• Gratuit : Up to 3 hours of streaming, 720p maximum quality at 30 fps.
• IRL ($7 to $20/month) : Up to 12 hours of streaming, 720p maximum quality at 60 fps.

Lightstream stands out for its ease of use and flexibility, offering a feature-rich platform suitable for a wide range of users.

Whether for casual streamers or professionals, Lightstream offers effective tools for the production of quality live content, while ensuring maximum accessibility thanks to its cloud-based architecture.

Discover with Lightstream

What is a livestream?

Livestreaming software allows you to broadcast live events to your audience.

You can also engage with your audience, allowing them to comment, react, and chat directly on your live stream.

Many of these livestreaming platforms even allow you to share your feeds on your website, mobile app, and social media accounts.

Additionally, most livestreaming software consists of a hardware encoder. It allows RAW video input to be converted to digital format for playback on multiple devices.

You can also use streaming software to broadcast simultaneously on multiple platforms like social networks, OTT platforms, mobile applications, and websites. In addition to that, it allows you to edit, customize, and modify live streams according to your preferences.

What features should you look for in a livestream?

Modern livestream tools are more advanced than ever. Most of them offer intuitive and user-friendly interfaces to meet the varied requirements of the virtual world.

Here are a few features you should look for in streaming software:

• Livechat - Livechat is a great feature that helps boost the engagement of your live stream. Thanks to the livechat function, you can interact with the audience and answer their questions. More importantly, you can also assess the reaction of your viewers, all in real time.
• Preview editor - The preview editor allows you to take a quick look at your video clips. You can also make last-minute edits or create a new clip before uploading it.
• Extensive themes/templates - Customizable themes make it easy to create a more personalized and immersive livestream experience. For example, adding a welcome screen and interval filling can make your livestream more personalized.
• Multiview function - The multiview function allows you to keep an eye on all cameras. You can also switch between cameras in just a few clicks.
• Real-time analytics - Having access to real-time statistics is essential to assess the success and engagement of your livestream. You can track all metrics like viewership, new subscribers, engagement based on geography, and demographics to keep your livestream user-centric.
• API and SDK - A developer-friendly mobile SDK and API framework allow you to integrate your live stream into services, cloud video applications, and digital media streams.
• Social media integration - Extensive social media integration will help you broadcast live on multiple platforms like YouTube and Twitch simultaneously.

Some options offer tons of features that you might not even need. However, there are some basic requirements that you need to consider.

How do you use streaming software?

The process of using streaming software is more or less the same regardless of the software vendor.

Here, I use XSplit to demonstrate how to use streaming software.

Xsplit supports livestreaming on multiple platforms, including YouTube and Twitch.

Before setting up broadcast output, enable 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication) on Twitch.

You can't start streaming without 2FA.

Simply go to the Twitch security settings page and click on the “Set Up Two-Factor Authentication” option.

After clicking on the “Set Up Two-Factor Authentication” button, you will need to create a password and provide your mobile phone number. After completing all the details, you will receive a confirmation message.

After setting up 2-factor authentication, you now need to set up Twitch streaming output.

Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1. Click on the Broadcast > Set up a new release option. Then click on the “Twitch” button.

Step 2. Then, click the “Allow” button and sign in with the Twitch account you want to use. After that, click on the “Next” button.

Step 3. After verifying Twitch credentials, go through the setup wizard carefully to identify the connection speed, the best capture server, and resolution for your live stream. Once the settings are set, click on the “Finish” button.

Finally, it's time to start streaming on Twitch.

Here's how:

Step 1. Click on the “Broadcast” button and select the output you want to set.

Step 2. This is what the screen would look like on Twitch Properties.

Apart from that, it's essential to make the right settings.

Here's how to do it:

• Identifying information : Select web authentication that stores your Twitch credentials. This happens after automatic or manual authorization. If you select web authentication credentials, you can authorize your account through the Twitch connection.
• Twitch username : Select the Twitch username for the account you want to stream to.
• Streaming key : Stream Key is a unique item that you'll find in streaming preferences on the Twitch dashboard.
• Waiter : You can either use the automatic function or select the server with the lowest ping time. You can also choose the ingestion server each time before starting your livestream.

Summary.

It was all about the top 7 streaming software. All of these programs have the same objective: to broadcast live videos. That said, each has a few unique benefits. And some of them are even available for free.

For example, OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS are great options if you're looking for an open-source solution. While these 2 tools are free, they come with most of the features needed for livestream and extensive integration capabilities.

Wirecast and vMix are more suited to larger businesses that want to produce large-scale live events.

On the other hand, XSplit Broadcaster is a good solution for players who need to live stream effectively on a low budget.

Carefully consider your needs and budget before making the final choice.