10 OBS Alternatives You Can Try for Free
OBS is a well-known tool for live streaming and screen recording. But, it might not be the right fit for everyone. Let’s take a look at some free alternatives that are easier to use, offer more advanced features, or work better with specific operating systems.
- XSplit Broadcaster
- Streamlabs
- Camtasia
- Lightstream Studio
- StreamYard
- ShareX
- Vimeo Livestream
- vMix
- Apowersoft Screen Recorder
- QuickTime X
1. XSplit Broadcaster
XSplit Broadcaster is a solid choice for Windows. It's user-friendly and ideal for live streaming and screen capturing.
Key Features
- Multistreaming
- Compatibility with Skype, Zoom, and Discord
- Producer tools like noise suppression and custom transitions
Pricing
XSplit Broadcaster has something for everyone, with options ranging from $5.95 to $199. Plus, you can test the product with a free trial before making up your mind.
Best suits: Serious content creators and gamers.
2. Streamlabs
Streamlabs simplifies live streaming for macOS users with its easy-to-use interface.
Key Features
- Local recording and streaming to Facebook, Twitch, and YouTube
- Support for simultaneous streaming to multiple platforms
- Viewer tipping feature
- Mobile apps for added functionality
Pricing
Streamlabs OBS offers a free plan with branding and a watermark for beginners. The Standard plan at $9 per month provides higher resolution and more features. The Pro plan at $17 per month is for more advanced users.
Best suits: Beginner and experienced streamers and content creators.
3. Camtasia
Need video recordings and screen captures for your organization's training and communication? Check out Camtasia.
Key Features
- Easy video editing and re-recording
- Access to royalty-free assets for professional effects
- Quick uploads to platforms like Vimeo and YouTube
- User-friendly interface for beginners
Pricing
Camtasia offers a three-day free trial. After that, you can opt for the Individual Subscription, which costs $179.88 per year. There's also the Perpetual License, a one-time purchase at $299.99, which gives you lifetime access without any recurring payments.
Best suits: Beginners and organizations looking to create and share videos for internal communication and training.
4. QuickTime X
QuickTime is the go-to recording option for Apple users. It's user-friendly and doesn't rely on the internet.
Key Features
- Pre-installed on Apple devices
- Screen recording and camera capture
- Play a wide range of file formats
Pricing
QuickTime X is included for free with Apple devices running macOS.
Best suits: Apple users looking for a simple screen recording and editing tool.
5. StreamYard
If you prefer a browser-based option, StreamYard is the way to go.
Key Features
- Branded overlays and green screens
- Live comment highlighting and integrated giveaway tool
- Multi-Streaming
Pricing
The free plan includes core features but comes with a StreamYard logo and has some limitations. The Basic plan, priced at $20 per month, removes the logo and offers more features. For $39 per month, the Professional plan includes advanced features and Full HD quality.
Best suits: Small businesses and individuals, both beginners and pros.
6. ShareX
ShareX is the go-to for Windows users who want screen recording without watermarks.
Key Features
- Open-source tool
- Scrolling capture and delayed screen capture
- Support for recording from both the screen and webcam
- Multiple export formats and integration with cloud storage services
Pricing
ShareX is free to use, so you can download it without spending a dime.
Best suits: Screen recording and tutorial creators.
7. Vimeo Livestream
If you're looking for ad-free streaming, opt for Vimeo Livestream.
Key Features
- Branding and private streaming options
- Automated video archiving
- Live polls, Q&A, and chat
- Custom overlays
Pricing
The free demo covers essential features, while the Starter plan ($9 per seat per month) adds privacy controls. For more tools, check out the Standard plan ($25 per seat per month). If you're hosting events, opt for the Advanced plan ($65 per seat per month).
Best suits: Beginners and pros.
8. vMix
Windows users looking for a high-end choice for live video production will appreciate what vMix has to offer.
Key Features
- Tools for live streaming, mixing, switching, and recording
- Built-in remote calling feature
- Merge multiple files into one input
Pricing
vMix offers a watermark-free 60-day trial of its recording, streaming, and production features.
Wirecast provides Lifetime License and Sub License options. The Lifetime License options range from Basic HD at $60 to PRO at $1200, all with free updates for the first 12 months. Or, the Sub License offers the MAX sub at $50 per month.
Best suits: Broadcasters, streamers, live video production and event pros.
9. Apowersoft Screen Recorder
If you’re a macOS, Linux, or Windows user looking for a browser-based tool, check out Apowersoft Screen Recorder.
Key Features
- Screen and webcam recording with no time limits or watermarks
- Support for various export formats
- Easy saving and uploading to popular cloud storage services
Pricing
Free video and audio recording with a range of export options and no time limits. Upgrade to the Screen Recorder Pro at $79.95 for lifetime updates and technical support, or choose the yearly plan at $39.95 for one year.
Best suits: Brands and pros.
10. Tella
Looking for an all-in-one screen recorder? Check out Tella. Whether it's demos, online courses, customer chats, or social media, Tella has you covered.
Key Features
- Embeddable video player
- Custom backgrounds
- Webcam recording
- Slack integration
- Automated subtitles
- 4K export
Pricing
For $15 per month, the Personal plan has no limits on videos, recording, instant sharing, the ability to upload your own clips, 4K export, and a range of other features. You can try it out with a 7-day free trial, and no credit card is required.
The Team plan, priced at $12 per user per month (a min. of 3 users), provides everything in the Pro plan. Ideal for teams, it also includes a team workspace and logo, more security, priority support, and single sign-on functionality.
Best suits: Startup founders, tech pros, and creators.
Wrapping up
In short, these OBS alternatives offer a range of features for live streaming and screen recording, making it easy to find the right fit for your needs without breaking the bank.