11+ Best Streaming Software 2023 [Updated List]

Choosing the right streaming software is crucial for your business. The options can be overwhelming from Youtube to Twitch, and that’s why the best streaming software can help you meet your goals. In this guide, we ranked and reviewed the best streaming software along with our top 3 choices, so that you can pick the best one for you.

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In a hurry? Our top 3 choices are Onestream, Restream and XSplit Broadcaster.

Streaming software has become an essential tool for content creators, gamers, and professionals alike.

According to a recent report, the live streaming market was expected to reach $70.5 billion by 2021, with a significant portion of that growth driven by the gaming industry.

Whether you’re looking to live stream a gaming session, hold a virtual meeting, or record your screen, there is a streaming software that can meet your needs.

In this guide, we will cover different categories of streaming software that are available in the market such as live streaming software, video conferencing software, gaming streaming software, screen recording software, music streaming software, sports streaming software, and movie and TV streaming software.

Each category serves different purposes and is popular among different groups of users. We will take a closer look at the best streaming software available in each category, highlighting their features, pricing, and compatibility with different platforms.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced streamer, you’re sure to find the perfect software to elevate your streaming game.

What is the Best Streaming Software?

Here’s our updated list for the best streaming software this year for YouTube, Twitch, and more:

• 1. OneStream.
• 2. Restream.
• 3. XSplit Broadcaster.
• 4. Wirecast.
• 5. Dacast.
• 6. Streamlabs OBS.
• 7. OBS Studio.
• 8. Twitch Studio.
• 9. vMix.

Best Live streaming software

The best live streaming software offers features such as video switching, overlays, and real-time analytics, and support for multiple platforms. These include:

1. OneStream.

Best All in One Streaming Software (Free – $89/month)

OneStream is a comprehensive streaming software that offers a range of features for live and recorded video streaming and social media integration. 

It allows users to schedule pre-recorded streams up to 60 days in advance and offers complete control over output with the ability to schedule the same stream multiple times. 

Additionally, it adapts to the varying streaming requirements of each social media platform and allows for customization with the addition of watermarks, logos, and custom thumbnails. 

OneStream Live is free to get started and the free plan allows users to connect to social accounts and live stream up to 5 minutes of recorded content. 

It also allows pairing with other streaming tools for multicasting capabilities.

With OneStream, scheduling pre-recorded videos is a simple task, users can easily upload their video file, set the desired date and time, and pick the platforms they want to stream to like YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, Instagram, Periscope, and others.

OneStream Key Features:

• The ability to stream and schedule posts to over 40 platforms up to 60 days in advance.
• Team management feature that enables multiple team members to work on one account.
• No software installation required.
• Multiple upload options such as camera, files, and screen shares.
• Custom RTMP streaming using a server URL and stream key.
• Live spaces for live streaming.
• Playlist streaming feature.
• Integration with cloud storage.
• Embed player feature.
• Unified chat feature.
• Captions/subtitles feature.

All these features make OneStream one of the most comprehensive streaming software in the market.

OneStream Pricing:

The pricing for OneStream varies depending on the plan and features that are selected. They offer a free plan, as well as several paid plans with different levels of features and capabilities. The free plan allows users to connect to social accounts and live stream up to 60 minutes of recorded content.

The paid plans include:

• Basic plan: This plan offers additional features such as team management, multiple upload options, and custom RTMP streaming. It starts at $10 per month.
• Standard plan: This plan includes additional features such as live spaces, playlist streaming, and cloud storage integration. It starts at $39 per month.
• Professional plan: This plan offers additional features such as embed player, unified chat, and captions/subtitles. It starts at $79 per month.

It’s always good to check their website for their up-to-date pricing and packages, as they may change over time.

For the best streaming software, try out OneStream for free and upgrade to a paid plan when you’re ready.

2. Restream.

Best Streaming Software (Free – $249/month).

Restream is a powerful tool for content creators, allowing them to broadcast their content to multiple platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch, simultaneously, saving time and increasing reach. 

This eliminates the need to manually stream to each platform individually. With native integration with popular streaming software like XSplit, OBS Studio, and Elgato, as well as the unique ability to edit or add channels while live streaming without interrupting the broadcast, Restream offers a comprehensive solution for content creators.

In addition to live streaming, Restream also provides scheduling, video on demand, and analytics features to help users to manage and analyze their content.

Restream’s event rebroadcast feature allows for planning and announcing upcoming broadcasts in advance to build excitement, currently available on Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. 

Additionally, Restream provides a single dashboard to measure the success of live streams across multiple platforms, including identifying the most popular parts of the stream, peak hours, total viewers, hours watched by platform, and more.

Other Restream Key Features: 

• The ability to create multiple channels within a single platform.
• A built-in amplifier for consistent streaming.
• Tracking of frame drops, bitrate, and frames per second (FPS) for performance analysis.
• The option to update metadata for all streams from a single location.
• Automatic notifications to notify audiences on Facebook, Discord, and Twitter.
• The ability to add a CTA button to live streams.
• Enabling viewers from different platforms to interact with each other through chat.
• A moderation feature to hide offensive and rude words in the chat box.

Restream Pricing Plans: 

Restream offers a range of plans, including:

• Free: Basic features such as streaming to multiple platforms, scheduling, and analytics, but no prerecorded video streaming, video uploads, video storage, or stream recording.
• Standard ($16/month): Includes additional features such as custom branding, advanced analytics, and priority support, but no prerecorded video streaming, video uploads, or video storage, and up to 6 hours/stream of stream recording.
• Professional ($41/month): Includes pre-recorded video streaming, up to 1 hour/2GB video upload, the ability to store 10 videos, and up to 10 hours/stream of stream recording.
• Premium ($83/month): Includes pre-recorded video streaming, up to 2 hours/5 GB video upload, the ability to store 25 videos, and up to 20 hours/stream of stream recording.
• Business ($249/month): Includes pre-recorded video streaming, up to 4 hours/10 GB video upload, the ability to store 50 videos, and up to 20 hours/stream of stream recording, and tailored solution for businesses.

Try Restream risk free for 7 days.

3. Wirecast.

Best Professional Live Streaming Software (Starting at $599).

Wirecast, developed by Telestream, is a comprehensive live video streaming production platform that allows for the creation of professional-grade live stream productions, such as TV and on-demand broadcasts, for the web. 

With a user-friendly interface, it is easy to customize your live feed by simply connecting your microphone and camera. 

Wirecast allows for live streaming at scale to any region, with automated encoding handling. It is suitable for a wide range of live stream events, including live sports, worship services, TV and radio programs, and news broadcasts.

Wirecast offers an added convenience with its free iOS camera app, allowing for easy capture of video content on the go. 

The ability to stream to multiple destinations, including any RTMP destination, and the option to include live subtitles to make the videos more accessible to the viewers with disabilities, are some of the features that Wirecast offers.

Wirecast key features:

• Live streaming to multiple destinations such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and more.
• Support for various input sources, including webcams, IP cameras, capture cards, and more.
• Intuitive interface for customizing live feeds, including overlays, transitions, and effects.
• Automated encoding for high-quality streaming at scale.
• Free iOS camera app for capturing video content on the go.
• Live subtitle support for accessibility.
• Virtual camera and microphone support for using Wirecast as a source in other software.
• Built-in audio mixing and audio processing.
• Support for 3rd party plugins and integrations with other software.
• Live scoreboards, social media comment integration, and other interactive elements.
• Advanced analytics and statistics.
• Multi-language support.
• Support for live streaming to multiple platforms simultaneously.

Pros:

• It offers multi-channel audio recording and support for WASAPI, ASIO, and CoreAudio compatible devices.
• Play live sporting events, use clocks, scoreboards, timers and other features.
• Access over 100 built-in titles and graphics.
• View professional live streams with QR codes, chroma key and playlists.
• Easily record videos to MP4 or MOV files.
• Efficiently mix up to 8 audio tracks.
• You can also add FX and processing.

Wirecast Pricing:

Wirecast comes in two versions.

• Wirecast Studio: $599 for Enhanced Live Production and Streaming
• Wirecast Pro: $799 for advanced live production and streaming

A more expensive tool, but the best professional live streaming software.

Get started with Wirecast.

4. Dacast.

Best Live Streaming Platform For Monetization

Dacast is a comprehensive video streaming and monetization platform that offers a wide range of features to help businesses and individuals manage and monetize their video content. 

With powerful and secure video hosting, and a user-friendly content management system, it is easy to store and organize all your recorded and live video content. 

One of the key features of Dacast is its excellent video monetization capabilities. It allows you to automatically convert currencies behind paywalls to reflect streaming costs to viewers, with options for subscription models, pay-per-view, and advertising. 

This allows you to monetize your video content in a way that is convenient for your audience and maximizes revenue for your business.

Dacast Key Features:

Dacast offers a variety of features that make it a powerful video platform, such as:

• API-Based Video Platform: An API-based online video platform that allows you to create your own mobile app and OTT platform from scratch, using APIs and SDKs for customization.
• Advanced analytics: Monitor video performance with reporting dashboards and custom reports.
• HTML 5 Video Player: Stream to any device anywhere using the highly compatible HTML 5 format, including mobile streaming.
• 24/7 technical support: With a comprehensive knowledge base and a large online community, help is always readily available.
• Monetization options: Monetize your video content through subscriptions, pay-per-view, and advertising, with automatic currency conversion for paywalls.
• Live streaming capabilities: Broadcast professional live events to a global audience.
• Advanced security options: Protect your content with secure video hosting, password protection, and geoblocking.
• Customizable branding: Create a seamless viewing experience by customizing the video player with your own branding and logo.

Dacast Pricing:

Dacast has four main pricing plans:

• Starter: $39 per month
• Event: $63 per month
• Scale: $188 per month
• Custom: Enterprise options for large brands

To test out their live streaming and video monetization functionalities, you can try Dacast for free with a 30-day trial.

Best Game streaming software

Game streaming software can be used by players, content creators, and esports teams to share their gameplay with others, build an audience, and potentially monetize their content. These include:

1. XSplit Broadcaster.

Best For Recording Console Gameplay ($2.50 per month).

XSplit Broadcaster is a widely popular streaming application among gamers and game casters, known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features. It is considered to be the top choice for anyone looking to start live streaming their games.

With XSplit Broadcaster, you can easily capture and stream gameplay in real-time, or record it for later use. 

The application is designed to be user-friendly and allows you to start live streaming or recording in seconds. It is an ideal choice for gamers and game casters who are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use live streaming software.

XSplit Broadcaster comes equipped with an in-game stream control HUD that makes it easy to interact with the chat, start and stop the broadcast, keep track of recent events, and monitor stats to increase engagement with your audience. 

Additionally, it has a projector mode that allows you to display multiple scenes on a device connected to your computer’s GPU.

The software also handles all the necessary encoding settings, making it easy to set up the right configuration and stream in the highest quality, up to 4k60 fps. 

One of the best features of XSplit Broadcaster is that it allows you to manage all the controls for your stream from one convenient location. 

Whether you’re a seasoned streamer or just starting out, XSplit Broadcaster is a great option for anyone looking to stream their gameplay with ease.

It also offers a high-end sub-product called XSplit Gamecaster, which makes streaming free and easy for gamers.

XSplit Key Features:

XSplit Broadcaster offers a variety of key features that make it a powerful game streaming software, such as:

• Scene Preview Editor: Allows you to edit video scenes before going live, giving you more control over your live stream.
• NVIDIA NVENC: Utilize NVENC options to customize settings for optimal quality and performance, ensuring the best possible stream for your audience.
• Intuitive Editor: With an easy-to-use editor, you can easily add subscriber goals, fundraisers, event lists, follower notifications, tip cups and more to make your live stream stand out and engage your audience.

Pros:

• 4k60fps streaming and recording capabilities: Stream and record in 4k at 60fps, providing a high-quality viewing experience for your audience.
• Simultaneous streaming to multiple devices: Broadcast to multiple streaming devices simultaneously, reaching a larger audience.
• Chat integration: XSplit supports Twitch chat, Facebook chat, and YouTube chat widgets, making it easy to interact with your audience in real-time.
• Customizable transitions: Add custom Stinger transitions or use multiple pre-installed transition styles, creating a seamless viewing experience.
• Illustration and live analysis: Use the whiteboard and stream annotations feature for illustration and live analysis.
• Audience engagement measurement: Measure the number of subscribers, new followers, Bits, Super Chats, Cheers and more with the Live Status Gauge, allowing you to improve your engagement and understand your audience better.

XSplit Pricing:

The pro version starts at $2.50 per month. There’s also a free plan for some limited features.

Get started with XSplit Broadcaster.

2. Streamlabs OBS.

Best for businesses looking for an open-source solution.

Streamlabs OBS is a free, open-source live streaming software that is designed for gamers and content creators. It allows users to easily stream their gameplay or other content to platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. 

The software is built on top of the popular OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) project, and it offers a wide range of features and tools to help users create a professional-looking stream.

Streamlabs OBS offers an App Store that provides access to 46 different apps that can help users:

• Achieve more automation in their streaming process
• Perform powerful and in-depth analysis on their stream performance
• Engage with their audience in various ways
• Simultaneously stream to multiple platforms
• And much more.

You can also easily embed multiple items including goals, alert boxes, etc. directly from the Streamlabs website. It also has noise amplification and noise reduction features to easily remove unwanted or background noise from your live stream.

Streamlabs Key features:

• Customizable overlays and alerts: Users can easily add overlays and alerts to their streams, such as subscriber notifications, donation alerts, and more.
• Built-in streaming tools: Streamlabs OBS comes with a variety of built-in tools that make it easy to optimize your stream, such as a stream health dashboard, a noise gate, and more.
• Scene switching: Allows you to easily switch between different scenes, such as a game, a webcam, or a pre-recorded video.
• Advanced audio control: Streamlabs OBS allows you to have full control over your audio, with features such as noise suppression, noise gate, and more.
• Cloud-based: It’s a cloud-based software, which means it is easy to access your settings and overlays from any device.
• Mobile streaming: Streamlabs OBS also offers a mobile app that allows you to stream from your phone or tablet.

Pros:

• It is a free software: It is available to download and use without any cost.
• Instant streaming and recording: With the Go Live and Record buttons, you can easily start streaming or recording live in just a few clicks.
• Multi-screen streaming: Share, merge or stream across multiple screens, providing a more dynamic viewing experience for your audience.
• Monetization tools: It provides powerful monetization tools to help you earn passive income from your streams.
• Quality control: You can control the quality of your broadcast using speed adjustment and video stabilization, ensuring the best possible stream for your audience.
• Performance monitoring: Monitor the performance of your live streams with key performance metrics like viewership and new subscribers, allowing you to improve your engagement and understand your audience better.

Streamlabs Pricing:

Streamlabs OBS is a free, open-source live streaming software. However, they also offer a premium version called Streamlabs Prime which offers additional features, such as:

• Exclusive overlays and alerts
• Customizable widgets
• Advanced scene transitions and effects
• More control over your stream, such as custom branding and additional audio sources
• access to Streamlabs’ library of sound effects
• Priority customer support

The pricing for Streamlabs Prime varies depending on the plan you choose. They offer monthly and yearly subscription options at $12/month. You can also try Streamlabs Prime for free for 7 days. It’s important to note that even if you don’t subscribe to Streamlabs Prime, you can still use Streamlabs OBS for free.

3. OBS Studio.

Best free, open-source option 

OBS Studio, also known as Open Broadcaster Software, is an open-source, cross-platform streaming and recording platform. It allows you to edit, record, and mix high-quality video or audio in real-time.

One of the key features of OBS Studio is the ability to create highly customized scenes from multiple sources, such as text, window captures, images, webcams, capture cards, and browser windows. 

Additionally, it allows you to switch between an unlimited number of scenes during your broadcast using custom transitions.The software also offers a powerful audio mixer with pre-source filters such as noise reduction, noise gate, and gain, providing you with complete audio control. Additionally, it supports VST plugin, which allows you to use third-party audio plugins. With OBS Studio, you have all the tools you need to create professional-quality live streams and recordings.

OBS Studio Key Features:

• Modular “dock” UI: The user interface is highly customizable, allowing you to easily rearrange the layout to suit your branding needs. The dock windows can also be expanded for better customization.
• Hotkeys: OBS Studio allows you to set hotkeys for almost any action, such as starting/stopping streams or recordings, switching scenes, muting audio sources, and more.
• Studio Mode: This feature allows you to preview scenes and sources before going live, making last-minute adjustments easy. Additionally, you can create new scenes before publishing your content.

Pros:

• Multi-view function: With this feature, you can monitor up to 8 different scenes at the same time.
• Transitions and hints: You can easily give transitions and hints with a single or double click.
• Powerful API: The software provides a powerful API for integration with numerous plugins and scripts, providing a high degree of customization and functionality.
• Customizable transitions: Quickly switch between different scenes with customizable transitions.
• Stinger videos: The ability to embed Stinger videos for smooth transitions between scenes.
• Cross-platform compatibility: Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux.
• Resources section: It provides a resource section to explore an unlimited number of additional features.
• Adaptive bitrate: The software automatically changes the bitrate of your streaming video based on your upload speed, ensuring the best possible stream for your audience.

OBS Studio Pricing:

OBS Studio is a free streaming platform.

4. Twitch Studio.

Best for gamers live streaming on Twitch

Twitch Studio is a user-friendly, free app that enables live streaming on Twitch. 

It simplifies the setup process by providing onboarding, automatic hardware detection and recommended settings to elevate the quality of your stream. 

The app also offers personalization options such as custom layouts, overlays and support for multiple audio sources to align with your personal brand. 

Additionally, it has a built-in feature for recording and sharing desktop audio with your stream.

Twitch Studio Key Features:

• Scene and source management to organize and switch between different camera angles, overlays and widgets
• Integrated chat and follower notifications
• Built-in alerts and sound effects
• Compatibility with popular third-party streaming software and hardware
• Option to schedule and announce upcoming streams
• Ability to stream to multiple platforms simultaneously
• Access to Twitch community and monetization options such as subscriptions, donations and advertisements.
• Built-in video editing tools such as trimming and cutting
• Integration with other Twitch features such as Twitch Prime, Channel points, and more.

Pros:

• Offers various stream layouts
• Includes a dedicated activity feed and chat widgets to monitor live stream engagement and respond to comments
• Allows customization of microphone sound
• Contains a comprehensive FAQ list to assist in resolving issues
• Compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems.

Twitch Studio Pricing:

Twitch Studio is free streaming software from Twitch.

5. vMix.

Best for a high-budget live production 

vMix is a powerful video mixing software that enables live streaming of video, audio, cameras, and more. 

It facilitates high-quality HD video mixing and direct live streaming to the internet.

The software allows users to switch, record, and stream live video in SD, Full HD, and 4K with multiple sources such as cameras, DVDs, images, video files, PowerPoint, and more.

vMix Key Features:

• Support for all formats such as AVI, MP4, H264, MPEG-2, WMV, MOV, MXF and ability to simultaneously record, stream, and output.
• 13 visually striking transition effects such as Cut, Fade, Zoom, Wipe, Slide, Fly, CrossZoom, FlyRotate, Cube, CubeZoom
• Full 3D acceleration for creating professional HD videos even on simple PCs
• Over 100 built-in animated titles, stickers, and graphics
• The ability to add up to 8 remote guests to your live show
• Hardware support for producing live concerts and big-budget sporting events
• A “reference system” feature to quickly and cost-effectively create a vMix PC with the required specifications.
• vMix Social – integration of content from YouTube Live, Twitch, Facebook, and Twitter into live stream production.
• Live Chat – view and reply to live stream comments from social media accounts like YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, and more.
• vMix Replays – setting up to 4 cameras for instant HD slow-motion replays and the ability to view playback from two angles simultaneously for increased engagement.

Pros:

• Single-click capturing of events such as goals
• Ability to add tags to events for better organization
• Instant creation of highlight reels to play during intervals
• Auto Mix Minus feature for eliminating echoes in audio
• Variety of virtual sets, overlay channels, and templates to enhance production
• Ability to start a live stream using just a webcam and browser
• A fully-functional 60-day free trial is available

vMix Pricing:

vMix offers four different pricing tiers:

• Basic (Free): includes a limited set of features
• Basic HD: starts at $60, includes more features than the Basic tier.
• Pro: starts at $250, includes even more features and capabilities than the Basic HD tier.
• Pro 4K: starts at $700, includes all features and capabilities, with the added capability to stream in 4K.

These prices are one-time fees and the software does not require any recurring subscription.

Additionally, vMix offers the option to purchase an annual software maintenance plan which provides access to software updates and technical support for a yearly fee.

Best Music Streaming Software

These are software programs that allow users to stream music from a variety of sources. These include:

1. Spotify

Spotify is a music streaming software that allows users to access a wide variety of music from various artists and genres. 

It offers a free and paid subscription service, with the free version providing access to music with ads, while the paid version, Spotify Premium, provides an ad-free experience and added features. 

Spotify’s extensive library includes over 70 million songs and podcasts, which users can access through various devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart speakers.

One of the key features of Spotify is its personalized recommendations, which are based on the user’s listening habits and preferences. 

Users can create playlists, discover new music through curated playlists and charts, and follow their favorite artists and bands. Spotify also offers a social aspect, where users can share music with friends, see what their friends are listening to, and even collaborate on playlists.

Spotify also has a variety of features for podcast listening, including the ability to listen to podcasts on-demand, download episodes for offline listening, and even create playlists for podcast episodes. 

Spotify also has a feature called Spotify for Artists, which allows artists to promote their music and connect with fans on the platform.

Spotify is available in 93 markets worldwide, and it supports multiple languages, it is considered as one of the most popular and widely used music streaming software.

Spotify Pricing:

Spotify offers two types of subscription plans: a free, ad-supported version and a paid, ad-free version called Spotify Premium.

The pricing for Spotify Premium is as follows:

• Monthly subscription: $9.99/month
• Student subscription: $4.99/month
• Family subscription: $14.99/month for up to 6 family members
• Duo subscription: $12.99/month for two people
• Student bundle: $4.99/month for Spotify Premium and Hulu (with ads) or $9.99/month for Spotify Premium, Hulu (with ads) and Showtime

Spotify also offers a free 30-day trial for new subscribers to test out the Premium service before committing to a monthly or annual subscription.

It’s worth noting that pricing may vary depending on location and country, and some promotional offers might be available in some regions.

2. Apple Music

Apple Music is a streaming service created by Apple Inc. that allows users to listen to a library of over 70 million songs on-demand. 

It also includes live radio stations, personalized playlists, and exclusive content. Users can also save songs, albums, and playlists offline for listening without internet connection. 

The service is available on a wide range of devices, including iOS and Android smartphones and tablets, Mac and Windows computers, and the Apple Watch and HomePod. 

Users can sign up for individual or family subscriptions, and there is also a student discount available.

Apple Music Pricing:

Apple Music offers several pricing options for its streaming service.

• Individual Plan: $9.99 per month, allows one person to access the full library of music.
• Family Plan: $14.99 per month, allows up to six family members to access the full library of music.
• Student Plan: $4.99 per month, available for full-time students with valid student ID.
• Free Trial: A 3-month free trial is available for new subscribers.

It also offers discounted pricing for students and educators, and some carrier also offer discounted or bundled pricing for customers.

Apple Music also offers a discounted annual subscription, which is billed annually and offers a savings of around 16% when compared to the monthly subscription.

3. Pandora

Pandora is a music streaming service that allows users to listen to a library of songs on-demand. 

The service is known for its personalized playlists, which are created using the Music Genome Project, a proprietary algorithm that analyzes the musical characteristics of songs to create playlists that are tailored to the user’s individual tastes. 

Users can create their own stations based on their favorite songs or artists, or they can listen to pre-made stations created by Pandora. 

The service is available on a wide range of devices, including iOS and Android smartphones and tablets, smart speakers, and some connected car systems.

Pandora also offers a premium service called Pandora Plus, which includes features such as ad-free listening, offline listening, and the ability to replay songs. 

It also offers a premium service called Pandora Premium which includes on-demand listening, offline listening, and personalized playlists.

Free version of Pandora includes ads, limited skips and replays of songs, and a lower bitrate.

Best Sports Streaming Software

These are software programs that allow users to stream live sports events. These include:

1. ESPN+

ESPN+ is a streaming service offered by the sports media giant ESPN. It provides access to live and on-demand sports content, including live sports events, original programming, and exclusive analysis and commentary. It includes live events from a variety of sports, including MLB, NHL, MLS, college sports, and more.

It also offers access to original programming, including shows like “30 for 30,” “Draft Academy,” and “Detail” with Peyton Manning.

In addition to live and on-demand sports content, ESPN+ also offers a wide range of other features, including live scores and stats, personalized recommendations, and the ability to add sports to a “My ESPN” feed to keep track of teams and leagues.

It’s a subscription-based service, with the subscription price starting at $5.99/month or $59.99/year. It also offers bundle packages with other streaming services like Disney+ and Hulu.

It’s available on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, streaming devices, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. The service can be accessed via the ESPN app, or through the ESPN website.

2. NBC Sports

NBC Sports is a sports media division of NBC Universal, which is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. It provides sports coverage and programming across multiple platforms, including television, digital, and mobile.

The NBC Sports offers live streaming of many sports events, including NFL, NHL, NASCAR, PGA Tour, Premier League, and more. The live streaming service is available on NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports App, which can be downloaded on multiple devices such as smartphones, tablets, streaming devices, and smart TVs.

In addition to live streaming, NBC Sports also provides on-demand videos, highlights, and analysis of various sports events, original programming, and live sports news updates.

NBC Sports Gold is a subscription-based service that offers additional live streaming content, such as exclusive coverage of specific leagues and events, as well as on-demand content.

The service is available in the United States, and some events may be restricted due to broadcasting rights in certain regions.

Best Movie and TV streaming software

These are software programs that allow users to stream movies and TV shows. These include: 

1. Netflix

Netflix is a streaming service that allows users to watch a wide variety of TV shows, movies, and other video content on-demand. The service offers a mix of original programming, licensed content, and older TV shows and movies. Users can create multiple profiles within a single account, allowing different family members or friends to have their own personalized viewing experience.

Netflix offers several pricing options for its service:

• Basic Plan: $8.99 per month, allows for standard definition streaming on one device at a time.
• Standard Plan: $13.99 per month, allows for high definition streaming on two devices at a time.
• Premium Plan: $17.99 per month, allows for 4K Ultra HD streaming on four devices at a time.
• Free Trial: A 30-day free trial is available for new subscribers.

The pricing and availability of content may vary depending on the region. Users also have the option to download certain titles for offline viewing.

In addition to its subscription-based service, Netflix also offers DVD rental-by-mail service in the US and Canada.

2. Hulu

Hulu is a streaming service that provides access to a wide variety of television shows, movies, and original programming. It offers both on-demand and live streaming options, with new episodes of current shows typically added the day after they air on television.

Hulu’s content library includes popular network shows, as well as exclusive streaming rights to some cable shows and original programming. It also offers a selection of movies, although the selection is not as comprehensive as some other streaming services.

Hulu offers several pricing options for its streaming service:

• Basic Plan: $5.99 per month, includes access to the on-demand library with ads.
• Ad-Free Plan: $11.99 per month, includes access to the on-demand library without ads.
• Live TV Plan: $64.99 per month, includes access to the on-demand library and live streaming of over 65+ channels with ads.
• Live TV Ad-Free Plan: $70.99 per month, includes access to the on-demand library and live streaming of over 65+ channels without ads.

It also offers bundle packages with other streaming services like Disney+ and ESPN+. And it also offers a free trial for new subscribers.

Hulu’s service is available on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, streaming devices, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. It can be accessed via the Hulu app, or through the Hulu website.

3. Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video is a streaming service offered by Amazon that provides access to a wide range of TV shows, movies, and other video content. 

The service includes a mix of original programming, such as the hit series “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Jack Ryan,” as well as licensed content from a variety of sources. Users can also rent or purchase additional movies and TV shows that are not included in the Prime Video library.

One of the key features of Amazon Prime Video is the ability to download content for offline viewing, allowing users to watch their favorite shows and movies without an internet connection.

The service is available on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, streaming devices, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. It’s also available through web browsers.

Amazon Prime Video is included with an Amazon Prime membership, which is $12.99/month or $119/year. It also offers a monthly subscription of $8.99/month.

Prime members also get access to other benefits such as free two-day shipping on eligible items, access to the Kindle lending library, and more.

Benefits of Simulcasting.

Multi-streaming offers many benefits to streamers. This not only allows them to establish and strengthen their online presence, but also helps them enhance their brand image. But that’s not all, there’s a lot more to emulate that will convince you to use multicasting (if you haven’t already):

Raise awareness.

The most widely cited benefit of multistreaming is the great reach it provides. For example, if you’re streaming to Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram simultaneously, you’re potentially live streaming to 1.9 billion + 300 million + 500 million daily active users. By limiting yourself to one platform, you risk losing billions of viewers on other platforms. With multicasting, you can engage a large audience across multiple platforms.

Resource efficiency.

Multicasting saves both time and resources. You create your content once and deliver it to multiple platforms at once, saving you the time and effort of streaming to each individual platform. Then you can focus more on building engagement. With streaming software like OneStream Live, you can even stream pre-recorded live events to multiple platforms simultaneously and save your time and energy on engagement instead. Not to mention that multi-streaming is pretty handy. You don’t have to stream on different platforms. Instead, you can comfortably stream on multiple platforms simultaneously and with just a few clicks.

Community building.

Since live streaming is all about engagement and interaction, simulcasting allows you to build a strong community. You can leverage OneStream Live’s unified chat to interact with your viewers in real time and respond to their comments in a single window. The more you interact with your audience, the more your relationship with them develops and the greater the sense of community between you and your audience.

Features To Look For in Live Streaming Software

Compatibility

The software should be compatible with your operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux) and hardware (computer, camera, microphone, etc.). This will ensure that you are able to use the software without any issues.

Encoding and decoding

Encoding is the process of converting the video and audio into a format that can be streamed online. Decoding is the process of converting the video and audio back into a format that can be played on the viewer’s device. Look for software that supports multiple codecs (H.264, VP9, etc.) and can handle high-quality video and audio (1080p, 60fps, 5.1 surround sound, etc.).

Customization options

Some software allows you to customize the layout, branding, and overlays of your live stream. This can include adding your logo, custom background, and overlaying text, images, or videos.

Scheduling and monetization

Some software allows you to schedule live streams in advance, and monetize your content through subscriptions, donations, and advertising. This can include setting up a paywall, creating membership tiers, and integrating with payment processors.

Multi-platform support

Look for software that allows you to stream to multiple platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, and more. This will help you reach a wider audience and increase your chances of monetization.

Chat and interaction

Look for software that allows you to interact with your audience through chat, polls, and Q&A sessions. This can include features such as chat moderation, emotes, and user-generated overlays.

Analytics and reporting

Look for software that provides metrics on viewer engagement, audience demographics, and other key performance indicators. This can include metrics such as view count, average watch time, and audience location.

Quality of Service (QoS) and Low Latency

Make sure the software supports low latency and QoS to ensure a smooth streaming experience for your viewers. Low latency means less delay between the action and its representation on the viewer’s device, which is important for gaming and interactive streaming. Quality of Service (QoS) is a set of technologies for managing network resources.

Cloud-based or On-premise

Look for software that can work with your infrastructure and preference, whether you’re looking for cloud-based or on-premise solutions. Cloud-based solutions are hosted on remote servers and can be accessed from anywhere, while on-premise solutions are installed on your own servers.

Support

Make sure the software has good customer support and is updated regularly with new features and bug fixes. This can include a knowledge base, community forum, and email or phone support. Good customer support will ensure that you are able to troubleshoot any issues you may encounter while using the software.

Top 6 Live Streaming Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

With the rise of live streaming as a mainstream video content sharing tool, all aspects of our daily lives are being completely transformed. From product development and digital marketing to cloud gaming, live commerce and distance learning, live streaming has marked a paradigm shift in consumer and organizational behavior. Live streaming is a complex yet powerful communication tool today that maximizes both your broadcast and your audience reach. Therefore, avoiding the most common streaming mistakes remains a priority for all broadcasters so you can get the most out of your broadcasts.

1. Low video quality.

High-quality video is a prerequisite for a great live streaming experience. Since you are reaching a large audience across geographical barriers, your video quality needs to be excellent. Blurry or dark footage will only frustrate the audience upon leaving the stream.

Make sure your live stream is in Full HD quality.

Make sure there is enough light at the filming location.

Go live with half download speed so viewers with slow connections with limited data can enjoy your stream too.

This is a professional live streaming checklist to ensure optimal video quality:

• Format: mp4. 
• Video Codec: H.264 (AVC).
• fps: up to 30 (higher fps may interrupt the stream).
• Video length: At least 1 minute.
• Orientation: Landscape, Portrait, Square.
• Video bitrate: 1500 kbps – 6000 kbps.
• 360 degree video bitrate: 5000kbps – 10000kbps.

Recommended Video Resolutions (width x height) for popular platforms are:

• Facebook: 1280 x 720 (720p)
• YouTube: 1920 x 1080 (1080p)
• Twitch: 1920 x 1080 (1080p)
• 360° or 180° Resolution (width x height): 2560 x 1440

2. Poor Quality Audio.

Audio quality is just as important as video quality, and audio quality is just as important for successful live streaming. Live streams can be shown with great lighting and Full HD quality, but if the audience can’t hear you well that’s a deal breaker. And this is where most live streamers lose their audience appeal.

1. Be sure to test your microphone before setting up a live stream.
2. Invest in high-quality microphones and other sound-enhancing devices.
3. Use the wireless microphone if the sound source is far from the camera.
4. Hold the microphone as close to the sound source as possible.
5. Use a noise reduction device for clearer sound quality.
6. Using good audio setup and mp2 converter. This will help you get the best sound quality for your live broadcast.

Recommended audio settings:

• Audio codec: AAC
• Audio bitrate: 128 kbps

3. Poor Planning.

“Proper planning prevents poor performance – Remember this as the 5 P’s.”

This proverb is the golden rule for successful live streaming. Many people fall into a state of overconfidence that they are used to live streaming. However, it can be much more complicated than imagined. You may experience equipment malfunction, a messed up internet connection, or a power outage. There may be several areas of concern that need to be addressed satisfactorily through proper planning prior to commissioning:

1. Ensure efficient equipment operation.
2. Make sure you have a stable and uninterrupted internet connection.
3. Check internet speed before going live.
4. Make sure your device is fully charged and that you have a good power source and battery backup.
5. Be sure to perform a device test on your live stream before going live.
6. Adjust the camera to the most optimal position to avoid frequent focusing during live streaming.
7. Check the microphone and its connection to the camera.

4. Insufficient Advertising.

Everything else done, insufficient advertising can lead to a failed streaming experience. If no one knows about your feed, it doesn’t matter if you put a lot of effort and resources into it. The web and social media are full of video content, but if your customers don’t know about your feed, you can’t expect them to find you by magic.

1. Create hype on social media about live streaming before going live.
2. Create an event that highlights your stream.
3. Clearly list the benefits your audience will expect to engage.
4. Use social media advertising on the web to target potential audiences with specific interests.
5. Invite people to your live stream through email ads, promotional messages, or interactive social media messages.

5. Lack of Interaction.

What good is a Live Stream if it’s not engaging and interacting with your target audience? However, many people livestream as a one-way street and then complain about the lack of viewers. If people don’t want any interaction, they will prefer to watch pre-recorded videos or read blogs.

1. Think of live streaming as a two-way street that allows streamers and audiences to engage and interact in real time.
2. Add a personal touch to your live stream through interaction.
3. Host Q&A sessions, give interactive quizzes, host informative webinars, then watch them come back for more.

6. Inconsistency.

If you think you can go live whenever you want and then expect your viewers to stay, you are seriously mistaken. Inconsistent streaming is one of the biggest and most common mistakes made by streamers. Why do you think TV shows air on the same days of the week at the same time slot? For the audience’s convenience, it’s all about recording the next airtime and keeping them hooked on the show itself. The same goes for live streaming.

1. Set live broadcast times for certain days of the week and make sure to broadcast on the same days.
2. Be on time and avoid being late.
3. Your audience needs to know when to watch your next stream.
4. Announce your next live stream at the end of your last session.

You may want to reuse your old content to improve live stream consistency. This is a simple yet effective technique to increase your views and reach a new audience. At the same time, it will maximize the value of your streaming.

While live streaming seems relatively simple, it’s not as simple as setting up a camera and microphone and hitting Go Live. A successful live stream requires a lot of effort and proper planning to create a great first impression and lasting excitement for future streams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Executive Summary.

That’s it for the best streaming software. All of these software options serve the same purpose as live streaming video. However, each has some unique USPs. Also, some are available for free.

For example, OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS are excellent options if you are looking for an open-source solution. While both the tools are free, they come with most of the necessary features required for live streaming and extensive integration capabilities.

Wirecast and vMix are most suited for larger companies that want to produce live events at scale.

On the other hand, XSplit Broadcaster is a good solution for gamers who need to live stream efficiently on a small budget.

Review your requirements and budget carefully before making the final choice.

Also read: Best Transcription Software To Convert Audio & Video Into Text

Last updated on May 6th, 2023 at 04:25 am