Top 15 Live Video Streaming Software: Everything You Need to Know [2025 Update]

Top 15 Live Video Streaming Software_ Everything You Need to Know Image

In recent years, we’ve entered a very exciting time for online video. Video is taking over the internet, and users are watching more content online than ever before. 89% of video content providers say that they get great ROI from online video. This has created a great need for video streaming software. 

Online video streaming is a helpful tool for all sorts of organizations. Many businesses use live and on-demand streaming content to better connect with their audiences.

In this post, we’ll introduce video streaming software basics and streaming protocols such as RTMP and HLS streaming to give you a clear understanding of the related terminology.

Then, we’ll move into a review of the top 15 examples of popular live streaming software for different use cases. We’ll provide detailed information about key advantages and pricing for each streaming software to help you weigh your options and choose the best streaming video software for your needs. 

Streaming technology is always changing. Please note that this post has been updated to reflect the most accurate information on video streaming software as of May 2025.

Table of Contents

  • Introduction to Video Streaming Software
  • RTMP and HLS Streaming Protocols
  • 15 Popular Video Streaming Software Applications
  • Final Thoughts

Introduction to Video Streaming Software

live video streaming software
Video streaming software is great for broadcasting at the professional level.

Video streaming software is a type of tool that broadcasters use to enhance their streaming experience in one way or another. Generally, streaming software is used to create a more advanced or more professional-looking stream.

Some streaming software, such as encoding software, is essential, whereas other types are used to take the streaming experience to the next level.  It is important to note that it is common for streaming software to include multiple functionalities, such as a simulcasting tool may have built-in encoding support.

That said, let’s take a look at a few of the most important types of video streaming software solutions. 

Encoding Software

Encoding software is a key component of the video streaming process. Simply put, an encoder converts a RAW video file into a ready-to-stream digital video file. Encoding software gets your video ready for the internet. 

An encoder can be either hardware-based or software-based. The benefit of software encoders is that they are generally more cost-effective. Unlike hardware encoders, software encoders can be updated as the software is improved. That means the lifespan of video encoding software lives beyond its hardware counterpart.

Hardware encoders are also typically bulky, so the fact that software encoders work on your laptop or computer is convenient for streaming outside of a studio. Encoding software is a necessary streaming tool. 

Simulcasting Software

Simulcasting, which is a portmanteau for “simultaneous broadcasting,” is streaming to multiple destinations at once. Many broadcasters use this technology to stream the same content to their sites, apps, and popular social media platforms, all at once. This is also called “multi-destination streaming.”

With simulcasting, you can reach a larger audience since you’re making your content available in more destinations. 

Simulcasting requires the support of dedicated streaming software. The best video streaming software offers this ability. 

Switching Software

When it comes to live streaming, a reliable switcher is a must. This allows broadcasters to switch between different live feeds, on-demand video, and other sources instantaneously.

Using different sources throughout your stream can keep things exciting and engaging. Most switchers allow you to create hotkeys and shortcuts, which means that this technology fits into live streaming setups with teams of any size.

Production and Editing Software

Production and editing tools can come in handy for professional broadcasting. These tools can help broadcasters make their streams appear more professional and put together.

One major use for production software is chroma keying. This is when broadcasters use a green screen and digitally change the background of a video. 

RTMP and HLS Streaming Protocols

hls streaming
RTMP and HLS are two important streaming protocols.

There are a couple of protocols that are used to transmit video files from your camera to your audience, including RTMP and HLS. These are important to point out since they play important roles in the software that we are about to cover.

RTMP or real-time messaging protocol is the most popular protocol for stream ingestion. Today, nearly all live streaming software supports RTMP. This includes all of the live encoding software we cover in this article. RTMP software is necessary for live streaming. 

Today, however, most online video streams reach viewers via the HLS streaming protocol. It’s the best video media protocol for most uses. 

Originally, Apple pioneered HLS, which is short for “ HTTP Live Streaming.” This protocol is compatible with nearly every mobile device, tablet, computer, smart TV, and game console on the market today. HLS is also constantly updated to support new technologies.

To put these two protocols into perspective, RTMP ingests or transmits video files from the encoder to the video hosting platform, and HLS software transmits the files from the live streaming platform to the viewers.

For more details, you can review our related article on how to choose the best video streaming protocol.

Comparison of the 15 Best Live Video Streaming Software Applications

We’ve rounded up 15 of the most popular video streaming software for live video production on the market. For context, note that all these programs are compatible with most of the streaming platforms on the market. Likewise, Dacast broadcasters and the streaming community at large have found these to be strong, capable applications.

Let’s take a look at the different options available to enhance your streaming experience.

1. OBS Studio

OBS Studio Software
Did you know that Dacast has collaborated with OBS Studio to create a custom platform for our users? Source: OBSproject.com

Overview:

OBS Studio is an open-source, community-developed project. OBS’s broadcasting software is fairly basic in operation and features. 

However, OBS does offer a wide range of plugins that can add lots of functionality. These plugins help to enhance the basic OBS software. In addition, they add advanced features found in high-end (and therefore pricier) live streaming software.

As it’s free and open-source, OBS does not offer much in the way of support or customer service. Though it is fairly easy to use, brand new broadcasters will experience a small learning curve to make the most of this software. If you are familiar with adding and using plugins, however, this software can be as feature-rich as other, for-pay options. There are lots of free online videos and tutorials about how to use OBS. 

This software encoder and comparison are based on the latest OBS Studio Version 31.0.1. This professional video streaming and broadcasting software is available for macOS 10.13 or newer, and Windows 8.1, 10, and 11 operating systems. For the Linux version, FFmpeg is required.

Key Features:

  • HLS Live streaming and recording functionality
  • Audio and video mixing, filters, and transitions
  • Support for hotkeys
  • Chroma key/green screen support
  • Scenes allow you to prepare overlays in advance for rapid switching
  • Support for a wide range of video, audio, and image sources, as well as screenshots
  • Expandable via plugins to add NDI functionality, remote control via WebSockets, advanced scene switching, and more
  • One notable negative is that OBS Studio does not offer multi-bitrate streaming
  • Detailed wiki and highly active user forum for support/help. Many YouTube tutorials are available as well
  • Real-time video/audio capturing and mixing
  • Unlimited number of scenes and custom transitions
  • Intuitive audio mixer
  • Modular “Dock” UI

Pricing and Compatibility:

OBS Studio is free to use for everyone and has a working integration with Dacast. Dacast has developed a customized version of this video encoder software. See for yourself in this tutorial video.

OBS Studio is best used as an encoding software and a professional online video platform. Check out our how-to live stream with the OBS Studio video tutorial for more information.

OBS Studio Reviews:

“The thing I liked most about this software is that it is totally free to use. It comes with great effects that are easy to set up. The software is very easy to learn and understand. Exceptional settings within the software. Very good for those who are just starting out.” – Ludvig W.

“Currently using OBS for our primary streaming software after Adobe’s old software went obsolete and other options were too pricey or still couldn’t manage what we needed. OBS is simple enough and delivers exactly what we need. It can handle multiple inputs and files to enable us to not need a switcher, but perfectly fine if you were using a switcher/single input setup.” – Travis G.

If you’re looking to use this software to stream over Dacast, check out our OBS for Dacast guide for Windows users, you can also review this OBS for Dacast guide for Mac users.

If you are looking for free video broadcasting software, OBS should be at the top of your list.

2. Wirecast

wirecast video streaming software
Wirecast Pro is the top-of-the-line, award-winning production software for streaming and recording high-quality live video. Source: Telestream.net

Overview:

The Wirecast live broadcasting software is one of the top-notch streaming programs you can use. Built by Telestream, the software enables live streaming to any RTMP destination and supports recording streams locally.

Wirecast software is compatible with various capture cards, devices, and camera inputs. This encoding option includes live switching, picture-in-picture composition, titles, audio delay, and other similar features.

You can now integrate social media comment moderation directly into your broadcast. There is also now improved 4K playback and streaming support.

Key Features:

  • Input sources from cameras, mics, webcams, IP cameras, capture cards, and desktops
  • Ideal for sports: instant replay, scoreboards, clocks, and timers
  • The free wireless camera app allows you to use any iOS device as a video source
  • NDI support
  • Graphics and titling tool
  • Audio mixer and up to 8 audio tracks
  • Built-in video conference tool
  • Stream to more than one destination simultaneously
  • Support for MIDI hardware controllers
  • Stream and record simultaneously, with re-stream and live caption options
  • Multiple bitrate streaming
  • Integrates with Facebook Live and Twitter for sharing comments on-screen
  • Includes instant replay, scoreboard, and timers for sports
  • Free wireless camera app turns iOS devices into mobile live video sources
  • Stream to multiple destinations simultaneously
  • Integrated video chat via “Wirecast Rendezvous”
  • Local program output

Pricing:

The software comes in two versions:

  1. Wirecast Studio for enhanced live production & streaming: pricing is $29.08/month
  2. Wirecast Pro for advanced live show and streaming: pricing is $37.42 which also comes with a free trial

The latest version of Wirecast is 16.4. It is the newest complete version and was released in June 2024. It features several enhancements and fixes, including FBLive polling, a rewritten WebStream plugin, and Virtual Camera improvements. You can check out its tech specs here to know more about it.

Wirecast Reviews:

“We have been very pleased with the service from the beginning, and it gets better every year! It has really helped us stand out in our industry and provide a great viewer experience for our clients and their families.” – Chris M.

“The best part of Wirecast is how easy it is to use. Being able to set up and plan a live stream is very simple. The user interface is intuitive. And it offers a lot of solutions and flexibility in its set up.” – Stephen K.

For more information, check out G2 Crowd reviews of the Wirecast software. You can also read this consumer review from high acclaimed photographer Trey Ratcliff of the video streaming software’s functionality.

Finally, if you’re looking to use Wirecast with your Dacast account, you can review this how-to stream with Wirecast knowledgebase article.

If you are looking for software for streaming video that only has a one-time fee, Wirecast is a great video streaming software solution.

3. VidBlasterX

vidblasterx live video production software
Vidblasterx is a versatile video production software solution for capturing and streaming everything from webcasts to live events. Source: VidBlasterX

Overview:

Next up in our video streaming software review here is VidBlasterX. First, note that VidBlasterX is both a software encoder and a live switcher. In fact, broadcasters can use this software for many tasks. For example, you can mix video and audio from many different sources, add images and graphics, make adjustments, add transitions, and more.

Software packages range from inexpensive to pricier options, so there are plans for diverse live streaming needs.

Key Features:

  • Modular user interface
  • Includes macro and scripting functionality to automate or hot-key actions
  • Supports overlays and lower thirds
  • Chroma key support
  • Live streaming and recording up to 4K resolution
  • Compatible with social media platforms and most OVPs (including Dacast)
  • Audio mixer
  • Multiview support

Pricing:

VidBlasterX is available in three versions. Each option has an annual subscription model:

  • Studio: $99/year
  • Broadcast: $999/year
  • Broadcast 4K UHD: $4995/year

VidBlasterX Reviews:

“VidBlaster is now a subscription-based local software installation that provides live streaming and recording up to 4K/UHD. Send streams to Facebook, YouTube, and other CDNs using the RTMP app or the virtual camera driver.” – BCBLive Live Video Production Software Review.

VidBlasterX scored an 8.8/10 on BCBLive. Particularly, reviewers note that broadcasters may need the Studio or Broadcast versions to support enough concurrent modules. Do you want more details on how to use this encoding option with your Dacast account? If so, read this article on tutorial on how to set up VidBlasterX with Dacast.

If 4K and UHD streams are your priority, VidBlaster is a good video streaming software.

4. vMix

vMix live video streaming software
Vmix is a Live Video Streaming Software that allows you to broadcast live productions online. Source: Vmix.com

Overview:

vMix is a professional-grade switching and streaming application. It’s constantly updated with new features and is widely used across the industry. It’s available on Windows PCs. The prices range from free to $1200 for a “Pro” version.

The latest version of the Windows-specific software is 28.0.0.36 and includes an upgrade to a free 60-day trial of vMix PRO for download. While vMix 24 is for Windows only, the software can be installed on a Mac via Boot Camp if the machine has a Windows partition.

Key Features:

  • Support for a wide range of inputs including webcams, cameras, capture cards, DVDs, sound cards, playlists, photos, PPT presentations, and more
  • NDI support
  • Chroma key and virtual sets
  • Built-in titling tool that supports animation via XAML
  • Live streaming platform integrations (including with the Dacast streaming platform)
  • vMix Social allows you to pull and display content from popular social media platforms
  • Instant replay, slow motion, and scoreboards
  • Training videos available
  • vMix “reference systems” ease the difficulty of building a custom live production system

Pricing:

vMix is available for Windows computers only, and it comes in five different editions. Each purchase never expires, and all editions include free updates for a year. The versions are:

  • Basic HD: $60, which supports four inputs (up to 3 camera/NDI) and video up to Full HD 1920×1080 resolution
  • HD: $350, which supports 1,000 inputs, adds vMix call functionality, four overlay channels, and supports full HD video in 1920×1080 resolution
  • 4K: $700, which supports 1,000 inputs, 4K resolution video (4096 x 2160), PTZ control, two recorders, instant replay, 4 SRT outputs, and much more
  • Pro: $1200, which also supports 1,000 inputs, includes all 4K features and 2 records, plus up to 8 callers, up to 4 cameras for instant replay, and 4 SRT outputs

The following is a subscription license that includes, and is charged every month:

  • MAX: $50/month, which also supports 1,000 inputs, 1,000 NDI inputs, and includes all 4K resolution video (4096 x 2160), PTZ control, 2 recorders, instant replay, 4 SRT outputs

vMix also offers a 60-day free trial and has all the features of vMix Pro, including the ability to use resolutions greater than HD such as 4K, mainly to ensure vMix supports your computer hardware and work with it before purchasing. It is a great perk, as most encoding software offers only up to a 30-day free trial.

vMix Reviews:

Among other feedback, some reviewers express satisfaction with how feature-rich this software is. However, other reviews note challenges in understanding and applying features and capabilities with this complex software.

Here are a few which stand out:

“Really great set of features for streaming live sports on a budget. $60 gets you access to four inputs and HD broadcasting, or you can step it up and get features like instant replay. Great set of scoreboards too with XML input.” – Eric T.

“Overall vMix is one of my favorite software as it becomes very helpful with video mixing when streaming or casting. I use vMix to stream events of the university, to manage the projected video of events and such things.” – Verified User 

If you’re looking to try this software with your Dacast account, check out this post on how to live stream with vMix.

If you are looking for a live video streaming software solution, you are going to want to consider using vMix.

5. XSplit

xsplit live streaming software
XSplit’s streaming software is an intuitively designed, and easy-to-use suite of video content creator tools. Source: Xsplit.com

Overview:

Yet another live production software for video streaming that’s widely used is called XSplit. XSplit comes in two versions, with a focus on live streaming in a video gaming context. In fact, the “Gamecaster” option targets video games specifically. The second version, “Broadcaster,” is what we’ll focus on here.

XSplit markets this option as a simple, powerful live streaming and recording software. It’s ideal for video content production and in conjunction with video games.

Key Features:

  • Support for a range of inputs including all major capture cards, videos, music, webcams
  • Display webcam and remove the background
  • Professional production features, including enhanced audio
  • Chroma key (green / blue screen)
  • Remote guests via Skype
  • Record streams locally
  • Integrated chat function
  • Other custom plugins and integrations
  • Edit and do secure video upload recordings

Pricing:

VCam Premium:

  • 1 month: $8
  • 12 months: $40
  • Lifetime: $100

Broadcaster Premium:

  • 1 month: $15
  • 12 months: $60
  • Lifetime: $200

Each package provides 1-month, 12-month, and Lifetime licenses.

Before committing to a subscription, however, the free license allows users to test the software.

XSplit Reviews:

“From setup to broadcast, getting XSplit to do its thing is incredibly simple. It even has hooks built-in for just about any streaming service you could want.” – Verified User, via Capterra.

If you create gaming streams, XSplit is the right streaming software solution.

6. FFMPEG

ffmpeg video streaming software
FFMPEG is a video streaming software solution compatible with live streaming platforms. Source: ffmpeg.org

Overview:

FFmpeg is an open-source encoding software. This software includes a library of tools for recording, converting, and streaming audio and video.

Additionally, FFmpeg is mainly a command-line application. This requires quite a bit of technical know-how, so it is best suited for advanced broadcasters. However, there are some GUI interfaces available.

FFmpeg works on most operating systems under various environments, machines, and configurations.

Key Features:

  • RTMP ingest
  • H.264, H.265, and other modern codecs
  • It supports streaming in any resolution
  • Record streams locally
  • Primarily an encoder
  • No mixing features
  • FFserver for live streaming

Pricing:

FFmpeg is free and open-source. It runs on macOS, Windows, Linux, BSD, Solaris, and pretty much any other computing system you can find.

FFmpeg Reviews:

“FFmpeg is a Swiss knife for AV developers. It can transcode and trans package AV data in almost any format. The tools that come with it are convenient too. Its portability also makes [it] a strong candidate for writing mobile applications. Hardware acceleration support is widespread, too.” –  Ameya T., via G2.

FFmpeg is an open-source solution, making it a great live streaming tool, if you want the ability to customize your content and live streaming experience.

7. Streamlabs OBS

streamlabs obs live streaming software
Streamlabs OBS is another open-source option. Source: Streamlabs

Overview:

Streamlabs OBS, also known as “SLOBS,” is another powerful software for live streaming. It has similar functionality to OBS Studio, but it uses a graphical user interface rather than a command-line interface, making it easier to use. The latest version of StreamLabs OBS is v1.15.1 and is available for download here.

Key Features:

  • Multistreaming to many popular platforms
  • Highlighter free video editing tools
  • Layout editor with drag and drop
  • Selective recording of streamed content
  • Replay buffer to replay clips for your viewers
  • Dynamic in-game overlay for single monitors
  • Streamlabs Deck with a live stream remote control app
  • Secure streaming

Pricing:

Streamlabs have effectively 2 plans:

  • Starter plan: Streamlabs app is free to download
  • Streamlabs Ultra plan: for $27/month to get 10 GB of storage (free Starter plan offers 1 GB), 1000+ themes, and 3+ destinations for stream distribution, without a watermark

Streamlabs is a great tool for businesses or individuals focused on streaming live content to social platforms. They offer personalized stream overlays and integrate with a range of apps that can provide you access to improved analytics, viewer interaction tools, and more automation tools.

Streamlabs OBS Reviews:

“Streamlabs OBS is extremely easy to set up and comes at free of cost. I use it primarily for Twitch and I like how it has the chat and the events list integrated into one window, making it easier for you to keep track of everything that’s happening as you’re streaming. This makes interacting with your viewers all the easier.” – Venk K.

“Affordable and modular, very powerful if users are capable and have other software to integrate with it.” – Eric T.

When you need a free video broadcasting software solution, Streamlabs OBS is a good option.

8. SplitCam

Splitcam Streaming Software
SplitCam is great for splitting and mixing peer-to-peer video streams. Source: splitcam.com

Overview:

SplitCam is a video streaming software with many functionalities. Its primary purpose is webcam splitting which comes in handy for use-cases where peer-to-peer streaming is necessary. Some use cases would be live training sessions, webinars, and other virtual streaming events that involve interaction from viewers.

This tool is not an encoder, but it is a tool for simulcasting audio mixing and splitting. SplitCam works with many major peer-to-peer services and streaming solutions, which makes it useful to broadcasters with a wide variety of streaming needs.

This platform also offers a community forum for users to share ideas, ask questions, and troubleshoot issues. This sort of support really comes in handy for broadcasters who are still learning the ropes.

Key Features:

  • HD video quality
  • Stream to popular social media channels
  • Broadcast with HD camera and other video sources
  • Split the screen with different applications
  • Audio mixer with mic and audio files in one stream
  • Realistic 3D mask

Pricing:

SplitCam is free to download and use. SplitCam is compatible with Windows and macOS.

SplitCam Reviews:

There are no user reviews available for SplitCam.

For broadcasters who want to mix and create peer-to-peer video streams, SplitCam is the software solution they need.

9. Restream

Restream video streaming software
Restream is a slightly different type of broadcasting software. Source: restream.io

Overview:

Restream is a streaming platform specializing in multistreaming but offering other streaming products. It’s designed to support both beginner streamers and advanced users, offering a variety of tools for managing live streams, such as chat management, scheduling, and in-depth analytics.

Restream Studio is their offering that supports in-browser live streaming. Sports fans like its live sports streaming options, but it is also quite popular among the gaming, tech, government, media, and music industries. Other than the ability to broadcast video in real-time, it’s also designed to increase brand exposure and sales.

Key Features:

  • In-browser streaming
  • Multistreaming capabilities 
  • Features for boosting engagement
  • Peer-to-peer streaming support
  • Tools for audience interaction
  • Brand customization
  • Scheduled events

Pricing:

Restream has several pricing plans for both individuals and businesses. These include the following plans:

  • Free: $0/month (for individuals) with 2-channel multistreaming
  • Standard: $16/month (for individuals) with 3-channel multistreaming
  • Professional: $39/month (for individuals) with 5-channel multistreaming
  • Business: $199/month (for businesses) with 8-channel multistreaming
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing and solutions for media and corporate teams

These prices reflect monthly rates when paid monthly, but discounts are available when you pay a full year in advance.

Restream Reviews:

“Over 2+ years Restream has allowed me to build a positive and interactive community across the internet and has expanded my audience and friendships along the way. If it wasn’t for restream then I don’t think I would be where I am today.” – Austin G.

“Having streamed to one platform exclusively for about a year (some time ago), I wanted to try other sites without leaving the original platform behind. Due to Restream’s extensive features, I was able to not only stream to multiple platforms but grow a community across them all. It extended my reach in ways I wouldn’t have otherwise considered and has changed the way I look at streaming entirely!” – Jesse S.

If you are looking for a video platform software that allows you to stream to multiple platforms, this is what you need. 

10. StreamYard

StreamYard Image

Overview:

StreamYard is one of the best live broadcasting software available because it provides simultaneous multi-streaming to multiple platforms.

This live streaming software is equipped with advanced features, including screen sharing, video layout templates, and a green screen function. 

Key Features: 

  • Custom RTMP destinations
  • Customizable backgrounds, overlays, and banners
  • Allows users to download recordings
  • Provides multi-stream function for up to 8 destinations
  • Audience engagement tools

Pricing:

StreamYard has changed its pricing plans as of late 2024. Here are the annual prices and what they include:

  • Core: $431.88/month with unlimited viewers, streaming, and local recording, 2 seats, 3 multistreaming destinations, and more.
  • Advanced: $827.88/month with unlimited viewers, streaming, and local recording, 4 seats, 8 multistreaming destinations, and more.
  • Teams: $2,867.88/month with unlimited viewers, streaming, and local recording, 10 seats, 8 multistreaming destinations, and more.

StreamYard Reviews: 

I like how easy StreamYard is to use. They don’t overcomplicate the need to have lots of additional hardware. Everything just works.” – Christian. K. via Capterra.

We do not have a specific tutorial for setting up StreamYard with Dacast. However, you can follow our encoder setup guide for some general tips.

11. OpenShot

openshot streaming software
OpenShot is a great free, open-source video streaming software. Source: openshot.org

Overview:

OpenShot is a free video streaming software that is geared towards editing. It focuses almost purely on the aesthetic aspects of videos, so it is a bit different from some of the streaming tools we’ve discussed so far.

OpenShot is open source, so it is customizable for different use cases. Since this platform is free to use, it is a great option for broadcasters and production teams that are still learning the ropes and testing the waters.

Key Features:

  • Cross-Platform
  • Trim & Slice
  • Animation & Keyframes
  • Unlimited Tracks
  • Video Effects
  • Audio Waveforms
  • Title Editor
  • 3D Animations
  • Slow Motion & Time Effects
  • Edit Video
  • 70+ Languages
  • Simple User Interface

Pricing:

OpenShot is free to download and use.

OpenShot Reviews:

“I enjoy using OpenShot, but [would it] be great if they added a splash screen and a notification window? It works well and competes favorably with similar programs, even with paid programs, given that it is free. Its performance is good overall but I have found that the processor you use plays a role.” – Gabrielle N.

“OpenShot is an incredibly professional video editing software for video editors. The tools are really powerful and simple to use. You can edit and compose videos from scratch to the advanced level.” – Adnan H.

Need a free video streaming solution? Try OpenShot. 

12. Lightworks

lightworks streaming software
Lightworks supports editing for broadcasters at any stage. Source: lwks.com

Lightworks is known as “the professional editor for everyone.” This video broadcasting software is easy to use, yet it is powerful enough to produce high-quality video content. In fact, this tool is powerful enough to support editing at a television-grade caliber.

This platform is equipped with resources and tutorials to help users make the most of the software.

Key Features:

  • Simple interface for ease of use
  • Professional-grade editing
  • Bank of tutorials for guided use
  • Supports chroma keying
  • No support for live streaming

Pricing:

Lightworks offers a free version and a premium version, Lightworks Pro. Lightworks Pro can be purchased in two different ways:

  • Lightworks create: $9.99/month per user
  • Lightworks Pro: $23.99/month per user

Lightworks Reviews:

“Lightworks was an excellent option to get started in the world of video editing; easy to use, excellent editing tools, cuts of videos, [the] union of videos, sounds, images, compatibility with several video formats and a fresh and simple interface make me [not regret] using this program. I recommend it a lot.” – Feldriana T.

“I consider Lightworks’ interface to be quite intuitive, as I required almost no time to get used to it. I usually have no issues importing images, audio, or other clips to a video project. Exporting also usually goes smoothly. I happen to have another video editing [software] installed, but very rarely had the need to use anything other than Lightworks.” – Lucas M.

If your video needs a little help post-production, Lightworks is a great software solution to work with.

13. FFsplit

ffsplit streaming software
FFsplit is built for creating seamless live streams with multiple sources. Source: FFSplit.com

FFsplit is a live streaming software dedicated to production. It allows you to merge multiple video inputs to create a fluid stream. You can broadcast the streams in real-time or save them locally.

It is freeware, which means that it is entirely free to use. However, it is not open-source software.  The platform is basic, but it’s a good option for broadcasters supporting multi-source streaming.

It is important to note that FFsplit is no longer being developed or updated. The latest build, FFsplit 0.7.0 Test Build 26, was released on  December 13th, 2014. It states that you can download legacy versions 0.7.0 and up, 0.6.0 and below, on their website; however, the links no longer appear active.

Key Features:

  • Free software
  • Focused on live streaming
  • Allows users to merge multiple inputs
  • Reliable tool
  • Easy to use

Pricing:

FFsplit is free to use.

FFsplit Reviews:

There are no public user reviews for FFsplit.

14. Switchboard Live

Dacast integrates with Switchboard Live to provide you with the best solution for streaming on multiple platforms simultaneously. Source: Switchboard.live

Overview:

Switchboard Live is a powerful multistreaming platform that is purely dedicated to multi-destination streaming.

Switchboard Live supports simulcasting to Facebook, Twitch, Vimeo, YouTube, LinkedIn Live, and Twitter. All plans support streaming to an unlimited number of destinations. This is a great tool if you want to know how to multistream on all platforms at once.

A unique feature of Switchboard Live is StreamShare. This tool allows broadcasters to plan live stream events in advance and invite participants to streamline the process. That way, you are not waiting for your audience to show up, they are there ready to watch when you start your multistreams.

Dacast offers a Switchboard Live integration which makes it easy to use with our platform.

Key Features:

  • Streaming to unlimited destinations
  • Solutions for different industries and use cases
  • StreamShare for streamlining event planning
  • Streams to top social destinations
  • Video player embedding

Pricing:

Switchboard Live has three different pricing plans. It offers monthly or annual seat-based licenses with no barriers or limits. However, they no longer post prices online, and you need to book a call with them for further information. The price plans they offer are:

  • SMB: Businesses with team members & multi-inputs
  • Public Sector: Government agencies & public safety organizations
  • Enterprise: For scaling businesses across the globe

Switchboard Live is a simulcast platform that easily integrates with OVPs and allows you to stream to unlimited destinations. It charges for the streaming minutes, not the number of destinations you are streaming to.

Switchboard Live Reviews:

There are no public user reviews for Switchboard Live.

For more information on how to simulcast on Dacast through Switchboard Live, please check out our dedicated tutorial.  

Sometimes you need to reach your audience on multiple platforms, when you do, Switchboard is a great option. 

15. Prism Live Studio

 

prism live studio software

Prism is a more basic simulcasting streaming software. Source: Prismlive.com

Overview:

Prism Live Studio is a live streaming software that focuses primarily on video editing and production. This also supports simulcasting, but it is not the main function.

This platform is a bit more limited than the others because it only offers multicasting to YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, afreecaTV, V LIVE, and NAVER TV.

Broadcasters can access Prism Live Studio on both mobile and desktop apps. 

Key Features:

  • Multistreaming
  • Mobile screencasting
  • Live chat features
  • Special camera effects
  • In-stream widget placement
  • Donation box option
  • Real-time Video Editing
  • Customizable Overlays
  • Audio Control
  • Green Screen Support
  • Recording & Archiving
  • Scene Transitions
  • RTMP Streaming
  • Analytics and Insights
  • Virtual Camera Support

Pricing:

No pricing is published on the site, but the app can be downloaded for free on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Prism Live Studio Reviews:

“Great app! Use it all the time. My only critique is that it’s darker than my normal phone camera, so live streaming a video in a dimly lit room or night is pretty much too dark to see.” – David Pearson

“This [app really helps] me for my live streaming activities and [it’s a] really good signal. Keep it up.” – Kazumae Perez

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Software

As this post highlights, there is a wide range of video streaming software available for today’s broadcasters. In this post, we’ve reviewed the top video broadcasting software for a few different use cases.

Do you already have a video encoder? Still not sure if it’s compatible with video broadcast platforms you’re considering? Choose the encoding software that offers the features you need, fits your budget and is compatible with the equipment and professional video hosting platform that you use.

You can test all the Dacast features for yourself to see if it’s a good fit for you. We offer feature-rich and affordable video hosting and live streaming, and we make it easy to get started.

Sign up today, and start streaming live in no time. No credit card is required.

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We love to hear from our readers, so post your thoughts in the comment section below. We will get back to you. Also, for exclusive offers and regular live streaming tips, you can join our LinkedIn group.

Thanks for reading, and as always, best of luck with your live streams!

 

Max Wilbert

Max Wilbert is a passionate writer, live streaming practitioner, and has strong expertise in the video streaming industry.