Ever wondered what the top streaming software is? This guide dives into the best options for converting your game’s video output, tweaking your stream’s visuals and audio, and seamlessly broadcasting to platforms like YouTube and Twitch. We’ve highlighted both free and premium tools, alongside top video editing software for repurposing your recorded content. To make your search easier, we’ve divided our recommendations into two main categories: streaming and editing.
Whether you’re a complete novice or aiming for professional-grade broadcasts, there’s an option for you, often without breaking the bank. Streamlabs OBS is fantastic for beginners, while OBS Studio offers advanced users unparalleled control (though it comes with a steeper learning curve). For editing, Adobe’s Creative Cloud offers a comprehensive suite, though budget-friendly alternatives exist.
Beyond the software, elevating your stream often requires the right gear, like the best lights and a quality gaming microphone. But even the best hardware won’t shine without solid streaming software. That’s why we’ve personally tested and curated a list of industry-leading recommendations to help you create captivating content. Dive in to discover our top picks for streaming software.
Why you can trust our advice: At PCGamesN, our team rigorously tests hardware and software, providing unbiased reviews to guide your purchasing decisions.
Here are our top picks for streaming and editing software today:
- OBS Studio – Best overall streaming software
- Streamlabs – Best for beginner streamers
- Vimeo – Best performance for streaming
- Nvidia ShadowPlay – Best for simple game streams
- XSplit Broadcaster – Best freemium streaming software
- Adobe Creative Cloud – Best overall for video editing
- Movavi Video Editor – Best budget editing software
- DaVinci Resolve Studio – Best one-time purchase for video editing
OBS Studio
Best streaming software overall
Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Linux | Audio-mixing: Yes | Integrated chat: No | Included themes: 4
Pros:
- Great performance
- Powerful, pro results
- Broad compatibility
Cons:
- Unintuitive user interface
- Very steep learning curve
- Prone to glitching
If you’re ready to move beyond beginner tools, OBS Studio is the ultimate choice. While it’s the open-source foundation for many other streaming applications, including Streamlabs, it requires more dedication to master. It’s free to download and use, but support primarily comes from its active community. Advanced users will appreciate the extensive customization and plug-ins, allowing for truly personalized content without template limitations. Be prepared for a learning curve and occasional bugs, but once configured, OBS Studio offers unmatched power and versatility for professional-grade streams.
Streamlabs
Best beginner streaming software
Compatible with: Windows, MacOS, Android | Audio-mixing: Yes | Integrated chat: Yes | Included themes: 250
Pros:
- Straightforward to use
- Fast to set up
- Offers auto-optimization
Cons:
- Advanced features require subscription
- Windows only
- Can be CPU inefficient
For those just starting their streaming journey, Streamlabs is an excellent, free choice. Built on the same open-source code as OBS Studio, it delivers similar performance with a much more beginner-friendly interface, especially tailored for gaming. It’s quick to set up on Windows, macOS, and Android, offering numerous ready-made overlays for Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. While the base software is free, additional overlays and features like multistreaming are available through a Streamlabs Ultra subscription. Expect community-driven support and minor glitches due to its open-source nature.
Vimeo
Best performing streaming software
Compatible with: Windows, MacOS, Android | Audio-mixing: Yes | Integrated chat: Yes | Included themes: None, though you can add graphics
Pros:
- Robust and reliable
- Unlimited streaming
- White labeling
Cons:
- Expensive
- Slight learning curve
- CPU intensive
Vimeo, a recognizable name in online video, stands out for its robust and reliable streaming capabilities. Unlike open-source alternatives, Vimeo is a well-supported platform, ensuring consistent performance. However, this premium experience comes with a higher price tag. While not as complex as OBS Studio, it still requires a decent understanding of online production. For unlimited streaming, live closed captioning, and white-labeling, Vimeo offers unparalleled performance, making it a top choice for serious streamers willing to invest.
Nvidia ShadowPlay
Best pure game streaming software
Compatible with: Windows 10, Windows 11 | Audio-mixing: Yes | Integrated chat: No | Included themes: None
Pros:
- Resource-efficient
- Great capture tools
- Comes with GeForce cards
Cons:
- No frills (no overlays etc)
- Lacks features
- More useful for recording
Nvidia ShadowPlay offers a no-nonsense approach to streaming, focusing purely on broadcasting gameplay without any embellishments like overlays or multiple scenes. This simplicity is perfect for streamers who prioritize straightforward gameplay sharing on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. Its GPU-based encoding (bundled with GeForce graphics cards) makes it highly resource-efficient, minimizing impact on game performance. While excellent for capturing gameplay moments or creating GIFs, those seeking elaborate, feature-rich streams might find it too basic.
XSplit Broadcaster
Best freemium streaming software
Compatible with: Windows 7 and up | Audio-mixing: Yes | Integrated chat: Yes | Included themes: over 300
Pros:
- Powerful features
- Highly customizable
- Integrated chroma key
Cons:
- No presets
- Free version limited
- Windows only
XSplit Broadcaster offers a more sophisticated, all-purpose streaming experience compared to its now-defunct gaming-specific counterpart, Gamecaster. It boasts powerful features like 4K 60p streams, integrated chroma-key (green screen), multi-broadcasting, and stream delay. As a freemium product, the base download is free, but advanced features and watermark removal (for resolutions above 720p) require a monthly or lifetime subscription. While initially user-friendly for streaming to YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch, its free version limitations might lead users to explore other options first, despite its excellent performance-to-power ratio.
Adobe Creative Cloud
Best editing software for everything
Compatible with: Windows, MacOS | Multi-camera editing: Yes | Payment type: Subscription | Free trial: 7 days
Pros:
- Industry-standard
- Full suite of editing apps
- Extremely robust
Cons:
- Monthly subscription
- Competition catching up
- “Evil empire” syndrome
Adobe Creative Cloud is the undisputed industry standard for creative professionals, known for powerhouse applications like Photoshop and Premiere Pro. For video editing, Premiere Pro offers immense capabilities, complemented by After Effects for visual effects and motion graphics. This comprehensive suite provides robust tools for refining all types of footage, from gameplay highlights to professional productions. The primary consideration is its subscription-based pricing, offering access to over 20 apps, which means an ongoing fee for usage.
Movavi Video Editor
Best budget editing option
Compatible with: Windows, Mac | Multi-camera editing: Yes | Payment type: One-off or subscription | Free trial: 7 days
Pros:
- Competitively priced
- Very easy to use
- Good support
Cons:
- Slow rendering
- Curious NAS issue
- Not as powerful as rivals
Movavi Video Editor targets users seeking an affordable and user-friendly alternative to complex, expensive editing suites. It offers a surprising array of features, from motion control and chroma key to AI-powered background removal and motion tracking, making advanced tools accessible to a wider audience. Its flexible pricing, with both one-off purchase and subscription options, is a major draw compared to more costly competitors. While rendering might be slower and it lacks some high-end capabilities, it’s a strong contender for budget-conscious editors, though users with NAS drives should note a specific saving limitation.
DaVinci Resolve Studio
Best pay-once video editing software
Compatible with: Windows 10+, Linux, MacOS 11 Big Sur+ | Multi-camera editing: Yes | Payment type: One-off | Free trial: None, but wholly free plan available
Pros:
- One-off, lifetime fee
- Free option
- Incredibly powerful
Cons:
- Less popular
- Not as diverse as Adobe
- Can be tricky to learn
DaVinci Resolve Studio has emerged as a formidable rival to Adobe Premiere Pro, particularly since its acquisition by Blackmagic Design, a leader in cinematography equipment. Used in Hollywood blockbusters, it matches Adobe’s capabilities but offers a distinct workflow. Instead of Premiere Pro’s linear timeline, DaVinci uses a nodular freeform approach, which, while initially less intuitive, becomes incredibly powerful once mastered. It integrates various functionalities, like Fusion for motion graphics and Fairlight for audio, within a single application. A significant advantage is its one-off purchase price (with a robust free version available), offering a professional-grade suite without recurring subscription fees.
How to choose the best streaming software
Choosing the ideal streaming software depends entirely on your individual needs, budget, and experience level. Beginners might prefer free, user-friendly options, while seasoned streamers might invest in more advanced, subscription-based services. Consider whether you need software purely for live streaming, or if you also require robust video editing capabilities to refine your recorded content. Some platforms, like Adobe Creative Cloud, offer all-in-one solutions, but combining a budget-friendly editor like Movavi with a streaming app like XSplit Broadcaster might save you money. Think about your stream’s content: a pure gameplay focus might suit Nvidia ShadowPlay, while diverse content benefits from highly customizable platforms like OBS Studio. There’s no single ‘best’ choice; explore the options that align with your streaming aspirations and technical comfort.
Game streaming software frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is OBS Studio or Streamlabs better?
Both OBS Studio and Streamlabs are excellent choices, but they cater to different needs. OBS Studio offers deep control and extensive customization, ideal for experienced streamers who want to fine-tune every aspect. Streamlabs, built on the same core, provides a more user-friendly interface and quicker setup, making it perfect for beginners. If you’re new to streaming, Streamlabs is a great starting point; if you’re ready for advanced features and a steeper learning curve, OBS Studio is superior.
How do I livestream on YouTube?
To livestream directly on YouTube, your account must first be verified. This typically requires a minimum of 10,000 subscribers, making it less accessible for new streamers. For those just beginning, platforms like Twitch are a better starting point. You can then upload highlights from your Twitch streams to YouTube to grow your audience and eventually meet the verification requirements for live broadcasting there.
Does game streaming make money?
Yes, it is definitely possible to earn money from streaming, and it’s the primary income source for many content creators. However, it’s a highly competitive field, and a significant number of streamers do not generate income. While financial success isn’t guaranteed, the endeavor can be incredibly rewarding even if it doesn’t become a primary source of revenue. Treat it as a creative pursuit first, and any earnings as a bonus.
What is the most profitable game to stream?
Games like Fortnite, Grand Theft Auto Online, and Minecraft consistently rank among the most popular and profitable titles for streaming. However, many successful streamers also find niches by covering obscure retro or indie games. While popular titles can attract viewers due to their familiarity, a unique angle or engaging personality can make even less-known games profitable. For new streamers, starting with a well-known game might help draw an initial audience before exploring more niche content.
For more ways to enhance your streaming setup, check out our recommendations for the best webcams and best gaming chairs.
