OBS Studio is an exceptional screen recording software that is available for free download. The software is open source, allowing anybody to inspect the code or contribute to its development. As a result, it receives substantial support and has gained a reputation as a widely used software for capturing screen activity and broadcasting it in real-time.
Even so, there is a plethora of alternatives to OBS Studio available, and this is not without justification. While OBS Studio may be both cost-free and very capable, it does not necessarily imply that it is the optimal choice for your screen recording needs. One of the drawbacks of OBS Studio, for instance, is its high resource use. If you possess a machine that is not heavy in weight, it is advisable to bid it farewell.
OBS Studio is known for its high level of complexity and requires a significant amount of time and effort to master. The device is primarily designed for professionals and features high-quality hardware. This device is excellent for individuals seeking a high-performance option, but it may not be the most suitable choice for those who engage in live streaming as a casual activity.
We will discuss the to OBS alternatives shortly, but first, let us examine OBS Studio in more detail and determine its value.
What is OBS?
Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) allows users to create, transmit, and record live video without paying a dime. Streamers, particularly gamers, will find the software’s features useful when broadcasting live. Among these capabilities include the ability to broadcast videos in real-time, possibilities for branding and personalization, the ability to capture and combine audio and video in real-time, and many more.
For those just starting out in the world of live streaming, though, OBS Studio can be a bit of a pain to use. To get the results you want from the program, you may need to have advanced technical abilities and go through its steep learning curve. Therefore, this list is for you if you are a business or organization seeking an alternate tool to generate live broadcasts.
Top Pros of OBS Studio
- It’s free and open source. Because OBS Studio is based on open source code, it is free to use and has a group of people working to make it better.
- Being flexible. With ease, you can record your screen(s), improve transitions, and stream straight to Twitch or YouTube.
- Ability to change and adapt. It has strong settings for both streaming and recording. With it, you can make smooth changes, improve the look of your recording, and fine-tune both the sound and video settings.
- Fitting together. You can use it on Linux, Windows, and macOS.
- Add-ons and plugins. The features of OBS Studio can be improved based on your wants.
Top Cons of OBS Studio
- It’s hard to learn. OBS Studio has a lot of choices and options, which can be confusing for people who are just starting out.
- Not enough built-in editing tools. There are a lot of ways to customize and change things in OBS Studio, but there aren’t many changing options. People will have to use a different tool for that.
- Using a lot of resources. Running settings at high quality can use a lot of CPU and GPU power.
- There is no direct technical help. Because OBS Studio is open source, there is no official team that can help with technology issues. On the other hand, it’s easy to find forums, discussion boards, and documentation online.
What to Look for in an Alternative to OBS?
If you are looking for another recording software, this list of important features should help you decide:
Audio and video of high quality
The most important thing about any recording software is that it makes the best sound available. Even if you buy professional-grade cameras and mics, the quality of your content will still be bad if your software can’t handle high resolution or uncompressed audio.
We suggest that you look for apps that can record at least 720p HD video and lossless WAV audio.
Simple to use
It’s important that the software you pick has both powerful functions and is easy to use. A clean and easy-to-use interface can save you time and stress, even if you’re an experienced pro. This is especially true if you’re a newbie.
Several ways to input
You can make a lot of different kinds of videos with the best recording tools. You should look for tools that can record your screen as well as an external camera, webcam, or capture card.
Recording with two ends and multiple tracks
If you want to do a lot of interviews from afar, you’ll need software that lets each person record their own audio and video feed on their own device. This method, called “double-ender recording,” keeps the quality high even if your internet link drops or speeds up.
In the same way, multi-track recording lets you record different audio and video tracks for each person. This feature gives you more power over the writing process.
We suggest that you pick software that records locally to your device instead of the cloud, even if you’re not recording remotely, so that an internet problem won’t mess up your recording.
Best OBS Alternatives for Live Streaming
Especially for those who are just starting out, OBS is not very simple to use. Therefore, if you find yourself attempting to figure out how OBS works, it might be time to think about using an alternative. The following is a selection of the most excellent alternatives to OBS that you can select from.
1) Bandicam
Bandicam is a lightweight Windows screen recorder that allows you to capture everything on your PC’s screen. It requires fewer resources than conventional video capture apps. Notable features include scheduled recording and real-time drawing. The unregistered version of Bandicam is free to download and use; however, it has a recording time limit of 10 minutes per file and watermarks.
Top Features
- Overlay for webcam
- Overlay on webcam using chroma key
- Impacts on mice
- Personalized voiceover
Pros
- Using it on a few of computers won’t break the bank.
- It maintains video quality near the original while having a high compression rate.
- The item is not heavy
- Screencasts can be saved in several different formats, including AVI and MP4.
- External video sources, such as a smartphone or camera, can be recorded.
- It lets you capture ultra-high-definition (4K) footage of games.
Cons
- The program gets more expensive as the number of computers you want to install it on grows.
- This alone works on Windows.
- The Bandicut Package is required for editing.
2) XSplit Broadcaster
XSplit Broadcaster has a lot of great customization choices, just like OBS Studio. XSplit Broadcaster lets you do a lot of things, like add Skype calls and drag and drop images, movies, and other things.
Its free plan has some good features, but you can pay more to get access to more scenes, source transitions, a sample editor, and other cool stuff.
Top Features
- Make rapid work of uploading several media files to YouTube.
- Streaming locally
- Up to 4K at 60 frames per second, plus more
- Mode for presentation
- Twitch Cheers alert and YouTube Super Chat are two examples of engagement tools.
- Features for managing streams, such as a scene preview editor and the ability to move between scenes and sources
Pros
- It’s user-friendly and easy to navigate
- Without a watermark, the free edition supports up to 720p at 30 frames per second streaming, while with one, it can handle up to 1080p at 30 frames per second.
- A lifetime of upgrades and round-the-clock assistance are available.
- License options range from three months to lifelong access.
- Reach out to your audience with the help of engagement tools.
Cons
- The free version has restrictions on streaming quality and frames per second.
- It may require a lot of system resources, which might make games run slower and introduce lag.
- Not enough personalization choices.
3) Lightstream Studio
Lightstream Studio is another favorite among live streamers, content creators, and business executives because to its ability to produce professional broadcasts. This cloud-based streaming solution has practically everything you’d expect from an OBS replacement, including third-party connectors, built-in conferencing, and an infinite number of projects, scenes, and layouts.
Top Features
- Instant messaging assistance
- Integration with third parties
- Remote visitors
- Cloud recording of gaming broadcasts
- Personalized overlays and dynamic widgets
Pros
- Since the application is accessible through a web browser, no installation of any kind of software is required.
- Your broadcast can be managed from either your desktop computer or even your mobile phone’s web browser.
- Your Xbox or PlayStation can record and broadcast live video.
- Streaming to popular sites such as Twitch and YouTube is a breeze.
Cons
- The streaming resolution determines the pricing of the plan.
- The two most affordable plans only offer 720p resolution; if you want 1080p, you’ll have to spring for the priciest one.
- Plans can get pricey if your streaming resolution needs to be higher than the maximum.
- Because it is cloud-based, you must have an active internet connection in order to use the software.
4) Streamlabs Desktop
Open-source, free software called Streamlabs Desktop lets you record and share live events. You can get it on GitHub. Users can also pay more to get Prime, which gives them access to a unique tips page and lets them stream on multiple platforms at the same time. It’s simple to send your live stream to YouTube, Facebook, or Twitch, and the iOS and Android apps let you handle your live streams from afar. It’s not the lightest game, and running it can use a lot of resources, so it might not work on all computers.
Top Features
- Layout editor to make a design your own
- Recording with options
- Save replays of live streams with the replay buffer.
- Dynamic layer in the game
- Apps for iPhone and iPad
Pros
- There are a huge number of benefits.
- You can chat and see what’s been going on in the game at the same time with the live in-game overlay.
- With selective recording, you can pick which source to use for your saved movies or live streams.
Cons
- If you pay more for Prime, you can get extra features like pro themes and streaming to multiple devices at the same time.
- You’ll have to call customer service to find out more about Prime since their site doesn’t list a price.
- For newbies, getting started can be hard.
5) Wirecast
Wirecast is professional live event streaming, broadcasting, and production software designed for professionals in the education, entertainment, sports, and religious sectors. There is a fully complete free trial available, after which you can purchase either the Studio or Pro edition. It is possible to stream and record at the same time, and audience involvement is made easy thanks to social network integration and live viewing counts. There are also over 100 built-in images and titles, as well as a stock media library containing over 500,000 elements.
Features
- There are unlimited sources.
- Unlimited destinations include Facebook Live, Twitch, and YouTube.
- ISO recording
- Professional audio.
- Expanded output choices
- Chroma keys, QR codes, and playlists
Pros
- The free, fully functional trial is not time-limited.
- There are two versions available for purchase.
- There are several tools for audience engagement.
- There is a large library of assets with built-in images and titles.
- Stream to many platforms simultaneously.
- It provides a variety of capture, production, and streaming capabilities for professionals.
- It supports both Windows and Mac (previously Mac OS X).
Cons
- The free trial does not allow ISO recording and includes audio and video watermarks.
- The interface isn’t very user-friendly, and there could be a learning curve.
6) FlashBack Express
FlashBack Express is a free screen recorder for Windows that includes a complete editing suite. You may quickly capture all or a portion of your screen, or utilize multi-device capture to capture numerous screens from different devices. Recordings can be saved in a variety of formats, and you can edit them with the supplied tools. You can sample the Pro edition for free for ten days.
Features
- Easy sharing to YouTube.
- Schedule recordings.
- Record multiple displays simultaneously.
- Multi-track complete editing suite.
- Add audio commentary.
Pros
- Recordings can be planned.
- Free tech help is given.
- There is no watermark on videos.
- There are no time constraints for video duration.
Cons
- To store recordings in formats other than MP4, AVI, or WMV, you must upgrade to Pro.
- The full editing suite and video effects are only accessible in the pro version.
7) ShareX
If you want an open-source screen recording tool without a watermark, ShareX is the one for you. While it supports over 80 destinations and is free, you may find it a little confusing. As a result, it is intended for individuals who wish to enhance their live streaming experience with advanced recording and editing capabilities.
It’s an outstanding free program that includes features like scrolling capture and a timer to delay screen capture. Unfortunately, it is only available for Windows users. So, if you’re not one, you’ll have to look at another adaptable OBS streaming option.
Pros
- It can capture an entire window, the entire screen, or a selected area.
- Hotkeys can be programmed to simplify the recording process.
- It lets people upload the recording to a plethora of online services.
- Media files such as movies, songs, and images can be easily imported.
- You can add your own color effects and watermarks.
Cons
- User interface is complicated.
- Webcam recording isn’t supported.
8) Vmix
Vmix is a high-end live video production software suite that includes live streaming, mixing, switching, and recording. Vmix enables users to switch inputs, mix audio, record outputs, and live broadcast cameras, videos, files, audio, and other content.
Currently, the software is only accessible for the Windows operating system.
Features
- Blending filters and effects into live video
- Overlay
- Documentation and live broadcasting
Pros
- Solid assistance for clients
- reasonably priced
Cons
- As an IT newbie, you’ll face a high learning curve.
- Excessive bandwidth use
- You are limited to using no more than three streaming providers simultaneously.
9) ActivePresenter
ActivePresenter is a free recording software that includes many essential recording and editing functions.
It allows you to record the entire screen, a specific region, the microphone, computer sound, and the webcam, and then upload the recordings directly to YouTube and other video-sharing websites. However, its simple features may not be suitable for capturing gaming, therefore ActivePresenter is better suited to filming lessons and how-to videos.
Pros
- There is a free version.
- Provides multiple annotation possibilities.
- Available for both Mac and Windows.
- allows for scheduled recordings.
Cons
- Video recording is limited to 10 minutes in the free edition.
- Free version supports just WEBM format.
- It lacks advanced editing and recording features for gameplay recording.
10) Icecream Screen Recorder
Icecream Screen Recorder is a free screen recording tool that is simple to use and allows you to record any section of your screen or save a screenshot. You may also record streaming videos and live webinars, your screen with a webcam overlay, and your system audio and microphone.
There is a free version available with a 5-minute recording time limit and watermarks on all recordings, or you can upgrade to Pro, which removes the video recording time limits.
Features
- Add your own watermark.
- Record full-screen 3D games.
- The Annotate feature allows you to add shapes, arrows, and text.
- Record the entire screen or a specified section.
- Share on Dropbox, Google Drive, and YouTube.
- Trim recordings.
Scheduled screen recording.
Pros
- It is compatible with Windows, MacOS, and Android.
- Pro is an affordable price.
- You can schedule recordings.
- You may quickly edit and annotate recordings.
- The basic UI makes it easy to use.
- You can record all or portion of the screen.
Cons
- It supports only a few video types in both the free and Pro versions (AVI, MP4, MOV, and WebM).
- The audio can become distorted when editing videos.
Comparison Table for OBS Alternatives
Here’s the comparison table for the OBS alternatives:
| Software | Price | Operating System | Key Features | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bandicam | Paid | Windows | High-quality recording, screen area selection, video capture, real-time drawing | Gamers, tutorials, presentations | 4.5/5 |
| XSplit Broadcaster | Paid | Windows | Professional streaming, scene editor, source transitions, audio effects | Professional streamers, content creators | 4.0/5 |
| Lightstream Studio | Freemium | Browser-based | Web-based, customizable overlays, cloud storage, remote control | Casual streamers, podcasters | 4.2/5 |
| Streamlabs Desktop | Freemium | Windows, Mac | Integrated with Streamlabs services, themes, alerts, widgets | Gamers, beginner streamers | 4.3/5 |
| Wirecast | Paid | Windows, Mac | Professional-grade production, multi-camera support, live switching, effects | Professional broadcasters, studios | 4.1/5 |
| FlashBack Express | Free | Windows | Screen recording, video editing, annotations, simple interface | Educational videos, software demos | 3.8/5 |
| ShareX | Free | Windows | Screen capture, file sharing, recording, customizable workflows | Screen capture enthusiasts, tutorial creators | 4.4/5 |
| Vmix | Paid | Windows | Live video streaming, production tools, instant replay, NDI support | Professional broadcasters, live event producers | 4.0/5 |
| ActivePresenter | Freemium | Windows, Mac | Screen recording, video editing, interactive content, SCORM support | E-learning, instructional designers | 4.2/5 |
| Icecream Screen Recorder | Freemium | Windows, Mac | Screen recording, webcam recording, simple editing, screenshot tool | Casual users, quick screen recordings | 3.9/5 |
Final Say
The article talked about a few different screen recording and streaming options, including what they can do and what their pros and cons are. If you’re having trouble finding the right OBS alternative for you, try these.
Take your brand to the next level with live streams made with the best options to OBS on the market right now.
But remember that the best way to grow your live audience is to give relevant and interesting content, no matter which streaming tool you choose.
