Video streaming software tv channels

Over the last decade, live videos have become easier to do, primarily due to advances in streaming software. Streaming software allows anyone from a newbie to an advanced broadcaster tocreate live streams easily.  In fact, free streaming on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram has made it even more straightforward.

The global enterprise video market should reach$25.6 billion by 2025. To incorporate online video content into your business operations, you need access to live streaming and broadcasting software. Choosing between broadcast softwares is a tough choice to make.

Today we’ll cover what you can do with streaming video software and compare the best free streaming software options.

Some programs for streaming require support from hardware encoders instead oflive streaming equipment. We’ll discuss that later in the article.

What is Live Streaming Software?

Not to be confused with a video host or live streaming solution, live streaming software is another essential program forstreaming live video. Live streaming software performs several tasks related to broadcasting from helping you record your content to transmitting it to the viewers’ devices.

Although you can broadcast live on Twitch and YouTube, these aren’t streaming software. 

Video streaming software allows you to mixmultiple camera sources to create a professional-looking HD broadcast. Encoding is another primary function of streaming software.

The beauty of mostlive streaming software is that they help you produce those professional-grade live streams with little broadcasting experience. Streaming video software allows you to craft a broadcast that looks professional.  This is something that social media platforms don’t offer as you can’t brand your stream and won’t have full control over the viewing experience as well. 

What Does Live Streaming Broadcast Software Do?

As we mentioned, there are a few things that most streaming software can do. Typically, it serves two primary purposes: encoding and mixing/production. Some streaming software is for specific functionalities, such as simulcasting or chroma keying.

Let’s look more into these specific kinds of streaming software.

1. Encoding

Live broadcasting software uses video encoding technology to convert your video feed into a suitable digital format for live streaming. These digital signals are transmitted to the viewers’ devices, and a decoder converts them back to video for viewing.

Video cameras typically use formats designed for recording, but they’re not optimized for internet transmission. Broadcasting software is also crucial for video transcoding or replicating video files of different sizes and qualities. It typically uses  RTMP encoders or the HLS streaming protocol.

Since encoders perform this function, the best HLS-enabled broadcasting program applications are often called live stream encoding software.

To use live encoding software, you install and run it on a desktop. For more mobile streaming situations, you can use a laptop computer. 

To efficiently run programs for live streaming or broadcasting, you need a computer with a consistently fast internet connection. Once you have your computer, you can connect video cameras via capture cards. The same goes for other dedicated hardware.

You can use multiple computers with distinct roles for more advanced streaming situations. For example, one technician could work to create graphics on an additional computer. Then, you can feed these graphics to the main mixing computer via an NDI (network device interface). That way, graphics display immediately with no lag time for your viewers.

Although it is not ideal, using a mobile device to run encoding software is possible.

2. Mixing and Production

The second function of live and pre-recorded streaming software is live video mixing and editing.

The primary purpose oflive video mixing software, orlive video switching, involves selecting and displaying multiple sources while a live broadcast is underway. In short, live hd video mixing, is an on-the-fly editing that the TV industry has used for many decades.

All the fast streaming software we’ll cover below are programs for streaming that can mix software as well. These encoders allow you to do many tasks rapidly during a live broadcast, which is crucial to a successful live stream or broadcast.

You can use the broadcast overlay software to do the following:

  • Switch betweenmultiple cameras
  • Live stream between various sources, including video and audio
  • Insert a still image or a pre-recorded video during a live broadcast
  • Overlay graphics or titles on top of the video feed
  • Add transitions and video effects, such as “green screen” virtual sets

As you may already know, mixing is essential to creating an engaging and well-crafted live stream or broadcast. The alternative—a single-camera feed without titles, images, cuts, overlays, or other finishes—may be sufficient in some situations. 

However, a single-camera approach is not usually professional or feature-rich enough for a good-quality live broadcast.

That is why you need streaming and broadcasting software to create a multi-camera or multi-source experience for your viewers. 

Video streaming software provides the tools to turn your RAW video files into the correct format for online broadcasting. Video broadcasting software should also provide the tools to mix and produce.

Live Streaming Software vs. Hardware Encoders

Live streaming software works by capturing, encoding, and broadcasting live content, which can be video or audio format. 

A typical live streaming software will provide features that allow you to add graphics and text overlays to make your live stream engaging. It also lets you stream audio or video content to other platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook.  

Now, let’s discuss encoders, which play an important role in live streaming by converting video input into digital format. 

In this article on live video streaming software, we’d need to mention hardware vs. software encoders briefly. Some broadcasters have needs that exceed live broadcasting software and may require a hardware encoder.

As the name suggests, a hardware video encoder is a dedicated physical device (rather than a downloadable software) that functions similarly to a software encoder.

Some individual broadcasters opt for hardware encoders when setting up access to mobile streaming services. Why? Hardware encoders can connect to cell networks and are compatible with most live streams or broadcast programs.

Note that hardware encoders tend to be much pricier than software encoders. Similarly, they can be physically cumbersome, depending on your particular streaming setup. However, since they are dedicated devices, they are typically more effective.

Components of Live Streaming and Broadcasting Tools

A suitable live stream setting consists of several components. Once you are familiar with and comprehend the fundamentals, establishing your streaming will be easy. 

Thebroadcast video is the most crucial element of your live stream setup, but there are also four other essential live streaming tools to consider.

  • The HD cameras, computers, and required extra tools are the most expensive part of your setup.
  • You’ll need various audio equipment.
  • The video encoder is the most crucial gear for live streaming and broadcasting.
  • Software for live streaming is called “streaming destination.” Live streaming and broadcasting software require a reliable internet connection, which is essential.

You will need a specific workflow for live streaming and broadcasting. It would help if you had a connection between your encoder and streaming destination and set up your audio and video components, connection, and live stream.

You can start a live stream or broadcast once everything is connected, and your audience can watch it immediately.

Selecting the Best Video Equipment

Choosing the right camera is one of the most crucial aspects of your live video podcast. However, selecting the perfect camera can be challenging. There are countless cameras with streaming features available on the market. In fact, you could use a high-quality smartphone to start off your streaming journey as well. 

Despite the trade-offs, selecting the best camera with the right features is the most important thing, just like many other technological products as it’ll dictate the quality of your live stream or broadcast.

You should buy an entry-levelvideo camera if you’re new to podcasting and live streaming. Beginner cameras are much more affordable and portable than other models.

Prosumer video cameras are a great mid-range option for live streamers if you want to upgrade a little. The camera’s overall video quality will be noticeably improved, with a standard feature, HDMI, and connectivity will also get better.

Professional video cameras offer everything you want but are at a hefty price. These professional cameras have pro-level connectors.

Selecting the Perfect Audio Equipment 

Although it necessitates some editing, theaudio equipment many individuals use for their podcasts significantly improves your video podcast.

Entry-level and prosumer cameras have a built-in microphone, considered low- to medium-quality equipment. Several people use their cameras in addition to audio gear, which is advantageous if you have a limited budget.

A wide variety of devices, such as USB and 3.5mm microphones and built-in microphones on professional live video cameras, are considered medium to high quality.

Professional-grade microphones are the top tier of equipment and can significantly improve professional-level productions. They can help eliminate unwanted background noise that could spoil the clarity of audio in your live stream. It’s especially important when you’re shooting in an open environment. 

Selecting the Best Mixing Equipment 

When setting up your podcast, mixing equipment is crucial to a live stream setup. You can record multiple audio or video streams by using mixing equipment. During a live broadcast, you can also change your sources.

Think about the following when shopping for video mixing equipment:

  • The size
  • Input and output
  • User experience
  • Internet connectivity and automation

You can choose between both hardware and software mixers. Many live broadcasting and streaming solutions also come with mixing features.

Characteristics to Focus on When Choosing the Best Streaming Platform

Most widely usedbroadcasting software options share a few features, such as recording video, connecting a camera and microphone, and including some video editing tools. But many things differentiate various stream software.

If you’re determined to find the best streaming software, keep an eye out for these key features:

Potential compatibility problems: 

Most video broadcasting software works with social media platforms and streaming websites. It would be best to look for compatibility issues using other programs for streaming media and platforms like Vimeo, Panopto, or Dacast. It’s also important to check if the platform offers multistreaming features and which channels it broadcasts to. If a particular channel you want to target isn’t available, you probably want to avoid the solution.

Extra or sophisticated features: 

There are different levels of premium software versions with other functions and degrees of difficulty.

Some streaming software allows you to stream simultaneously to multiple major streaming platforms, while other live broadcasting software gives you more storage space to record your live videos. 

It’s possible to fall head over heels for live video software only to discover it doesn’t work. Before choosing a particular professional streaming software for pre-recorded videos, check out these features.

Pricing:

Some of the best streaming software options offer a free version. However, some for-profit quality enhancements can make your live stream more engaging.

Examining these three features will assist in removing the software options you cannot use. It would help if you didn’t use web streaming software if they are out of your price range, doesn’t support your platforms, or needs essential features.

You must also weigh the pricing against the features you need for live streaming. If a paid platform offers features that are a must-have for you, it’s better to opt for it. 

Comparison of the 20 Best Live Streaming Software Options

Now that we’ve covered what live streaming software is, what it does, and the difference between hardware and software encoders, it’s time to review a few of the best live streaming services and software for streaming options in more detail.

Specifically, we’ll review and compare Wirecast, vMix, VidBlasterX, OBS Studio, Dacast, and more.

Let’s get to it.

1. Wirecast

Wirecast Studio is the perfect live streaming software with unlimited inputs, unlimited destinations, and simultaneous video conferencing. Source:Telestream.net

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. 

Wirecast makes using pre-recorded video within your live broadcast easier. Wirecast supports a range of other technologies, including:

  • Support for multiple video capture and live inputs simultaneously (USB, Capture Card, NDI, Wirecast Go, Webstream IP sources)
  • GPU-accelerated encoding
  • Pro Audio FX Built In
  • RTMP, RTP multi+unicast
  • Multi-channel audio ingest

Compatibility:

Wirecast is compatible with both macOS and Windows.

Pros:

  • Easy-to-use, user-friendly platform
  • Compatible with most popular operating systems
  • Fully loaded with valuable features
  • Green screen
  • Instant replay

Cons:

  • High price point 
  • Many features are locked in the “Studio” version.
  • It consumes a lot of computer memory.

Pricing:

The latest version of Wirecast is Version 16.4.0, which was released on Dec 2, 2024.

It features several enhancements and fixes regarding bugs and other technical mishaps with the previous version and includes FBLive polling, a rewritten WebStream plugin, and Virtual Camera improvements. 

The software comes intwo programs for streaming:

  1. Wirecast Studio for enhanced live production & streaming: pricing is $29.08 per month for a year long subscription billed annually
  2. Wirecast Pro for advanced live production and streaming: pricing is $37.42 per month for a year long subscription billed annually

The Pro version includes several features not available in the Studio version. 

These include

  • Up to 7 guests via built-in video conferencing solution
  • ISO records individual sources
  • NDI output
  • 8-track audio output
  • Wider device support
  • Live scoreboards
  • Multi-track audio recording
  • Up to 17 slots of multiviewer output

Setting up Wirecast with Dacast:

Please check out our posts about setting up Wirecast with the Dacast video streaming software.

User Review:

“We use it for training and online learning. It works great and is relatively easy to use, even for non-experts on our team.” –Anonymous G2 Reviewer.

Try Wirecast if you want a software solution that is compatible with almost everything you wish to pair.

2. vMix

vMix is powerful broadcasting software featuring simultaneous streaming, recording, and output. Source:vMix.com

vMix, one of the best streaming software options, is a highly powerful encoder developed by StudioCoast. You can download the latest version of the Windows-specific software here. 

It includes

  • Video cameras (supported capture cards) at up to 4K resolution
  • NDI: send and receive HD low-latency video and audio
  • Video Files: AVI, MP4,H264, MPEG-2, WMV, MOV, and MXF
  • Audio Files: MP3 and WAV
  • Web Browser, RTSP, PowerPoint, Photos, Solid Color, and more.
  • Webcams, DVDs, playlists, PowerPoint, and other sources

vMix includes native support formulti-bitrate streaming, which is useful for professional online broadcasters who highly value user experience.

Additionally, this software supports the Network Device Interface (NDI). NDI sends your secure video upload over gigabit ethernet networks and green screens. 

vMix’s programs for streaming also include a built-in titling tool with animation support. Additionally, it offers an instant replay and slow-motion feature. Hence, it’s one of the best live streaming and broadcast software options for Windows PCs in the category of top-notch browser-based programs. 

Compatibility:

vMix is only available for Windows PCs. However, running it on a Mac is possible using a specific technique. While vMix cannot be installed directly on OSX, installing it on Windows via Boot Camp is the solution when using a Mac.

Pros:

  • Some limitations on compatibility 
  • Plans for every budget
  • 60-day risk-free trial
  • Users rave about switcher functions.

Cons:

  • Streams in relatively low bitrate
  • Some “bugginess” (which users suggest could be fixed with a software update)

Pricing:

vMix is available infour different versions, from Basic HD to Pro. Want to try out the free version? It comes with a free 60-day trial. Each version supports a different number of inputs, your purchase never expires, and includes the following versions:

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

Alternatively, there is a monthly subscription license:

  • MAX: $50/month, supports 1,000 inputs, 1,000 NDI inputs and includes all 4K resolution video (4096 x 2160), PTZ control, two 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 works with it before purchasing. 

It is a great perk, as most encoding software offers only up to a 14-day free trial.

Setting up vMix with Dacast:

vMix integrates with Dacast’s online video platform, which is easy to set up. Check out our Dacast/vMix tutorial for more information. 

User Review:

“I like vMix because it is straightforward to set up various shots by assigning various camera inputs, adding videos, presentation[s], and other graphics. It is an all-in-one solution for mixing video and streaming.” – Abhishek D.

If you have Windows devices, vMix is one of the best streaming software for PCs that you will find.

3. VidBlasterX

VidBlasterX is a versatile live video production application that allows you to capture, stream, and broadcast everything, anywhere. Source:VidBlasterX.com

Next up on our list of live streaming software for live and pre-recorded videos is VidBlasterX, an RTMP-enabled live video production software. 

VidBlasterX enables streaming to most live streaming platforms, including Dacast. The input support and other features on VidBlasterX are similar to Wirecast and vMix.

But what sets it apart is the fact that you don’t necessarily need a GPU to run it. Instead, it uses multi-core CPUs to run. Additionally, it provides multi-channel and multi-camera broadcasting features to help you create a professional live stream or broadcast.

For studio users, VidBlasterX supports the following:

  • Video routing
  • Recording streams to local disks
  • Displaying outputs on a monitor of your choice
  • Outputting to a Blackmagic DeckLink video card

VidBlasterX utilizes a unique modular design. For example, broadcasters can add each feature via a “module.” You can then add, rearrange and remove these at your discretion.

Compatibility:

VidBlasterX is compatible with the Windows operating system.

Pros:

  • Has plans for a wide range of budgets
  • Feature-rich
  • Easily customizable

Cons:

  • Not compatible with macOS
  • Not well-suited for inexperienced live streamers
  • Slightly complex

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

Setting up VidBlasterX with Dacast:

Check out our tutorial to learnhow to set up VidBlasterX with Dacast.

User Review:

“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 usingthe RTMP app or the virtual camera driver.” – BCBLive Live Video Production Software Review.

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

4. OBS Studio

OBS Studio is free and open-source software for video recording and live broadcasting. Source: OBSStudio

OBS Studio is one of the best free streaming and encoding software and open-sourcelive stream broadcasting software packages. OBS supportsRTMP broadcasting, switching between multiple sources, capture cards, webcams, chroma-key (green screen), video and audio streaming, and application windows. 

Though it’s light on advanced features, it’s easy to use, even for those new to live broadcasting. Note that OBS does not natively support any plugins. However, community members have developed various plugins that online broadcasters can use to add more basic OBS Studio features.

These OBS plugin settings include NDI, a feature formerly only found on high-end encoders. Another notable plugin supports pulling Tweets into your streams in real-time.

That said, OBS Studio does provide some important features like mixing and scene setups. These can help make your broadcast appear more professional. 

Please note that OBS does not support multi-bitrate streaming. This is a downside, as multi-bitrate streaming helps provide a better live streaming experience to your viewers.

Compatibility:

OBS is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. Unfortunately, OBS Studio no longer supports Windows Vista.

Pros:

  • It’s free
  • Easy-to-use for beginners
  • Frequent updates
  • Able to function on lower-quality internet

Cons:

  • Some limitations on features
  • Room for improvement for plugins

Pricing:

OBS Studio is some of the best streaming software that’s open-source and completely free. There is no cost to accessing and using this royalty free music and software.

The latest version of OBS Studio is 31.0.0 released on Dec 6th, 2024. It is available for download here for macOS 11.0 or newer, Windows 10 and 11, and Ubuntu 20.04 operating systems. For the Linux version, you’ll need FFmpeg.

Setting up OBS Studio with Dacast:

We offer our customers a customized version of OBS Studio’s streaming software. The version makes connecting directly to your Dacast live streaming service account easier. 

With this option, you don’t need to enter details manually. Instead, log in to your Dacast account via OBS to start streaming live in minutes.

Check out our OBS for Dacast guide for Windows users. You can also review this OBS for Dacast guide for Mac users.

User Reviews:

“OBS has allowed our organization to enter the video streaming and recording arena. Video interaction has become so important when the government limits face-to-face interaction due to the COVID-19 pandemic. OBS provides an easily accessible way to develop effective video communication.” – Michael A.

If you are looking for free live stream software that also offers robust tools for a quality broadcast, you must try OBS, which works on all three primary computer operating systems.

Bonus – Live Stream on Kick with OBS Studio

Want to learn how can you live stream on OBS studio with the new red hot Kick Live Streaming Platform?

Check out our ultimate guide on how to stream on kick with OBS, where we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started on Kick using OBS.

5. Streamlabs OBS

Streamlabs offers a wide range of functionality for broadcasters who are ready to take their streams to the next level. Source: StreamLabsOBS

Streamlabs OBS is another live streaming and broadcast software based on OBS’s open-source programming. It is free to download, but users must upgrade to the Prime version to access all the resources. The latest version of Streamlabs is available for download here.

Streamlabs OBS offers quite a few advanced features for browser-based editing and multicasting of live streams. It is the chosen video broadcast software for many professional streamers. 

One of the unique aspects of this video broadcasting software is its web-based live streaming studio called MelonApp. The app allows you to broadcast to Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, or Twitch with one click and without leaving your browser.

The platform is particularly useful for gamers who want to stream online, as it offers gamer overlays. Additionally, its dual output functionality is quite useful as you can stream in both landscape and portrait mode at once. It’s also possible to invite remote guests to join your stream with collaboration cameras. This can come in handy for hosting interviews or Q&A sessions.

Compatibility:

The Streamlabs website doesn’t indicate any limitations on operating system compatibility. 

However, the platform is suitable forstreaming on Twitch, Facebook, Mixer, and YouTube.

Pros:

  • Easy for beginners
  • Tools for designing stream layout
  • Selective video recording
  • Gaming overlays
  • Tools for tipping and donations

Cons:

  • No scoreboards 
  • Limitations on graphic overlays
  • Some features are clunky

Pricing:

Streamlabs offers a free version and a paid version.

  • Starter: Free (2 destinations, 1 guest, 1GB storage)
  • Ultra: $27/month or $189 billed annually (3+ destinations, 11 guests/cameras, 10GB storage)

Setting up Streamlabs OBS with Dacast:

We do not have a specific tutorial for setting up Streamlab OBS with Dacast. However, you can follow ourencoder setup guide for some general tips.

User Review:

“Easy to use, has tons of great features. Takes the worries out of streaming for first-timers.” James F., via TrustPilot

If you want to play with many tools that allow you to customize your live streams, Streamlabs is an excellent video broadcasting software for streaming.

6. FFmpeg

 

FFmpeg is a fundamental broadcasting software compatible with Dacast’s live streaming platform. Source: FFmpeg

FFmpeg’s software is basic but can also be customized to create great content. FFmpeg underwent a major new release,FFmpeg 7.0, on April 5th, 2024, entitled “Dijkstra.” 

A few of the top features of the Dijkstra update include:

  • Native VVC decoder
  • The  old bitmask-based channel layout API has been replaced with the AVChannel layout
  • New encoders and decoding systems implemented
  • Bug fixes, new supported formats and codecs, new filters, APIs, and other smaller features
  • VideoToolbox update 

FFmpeg only releases about two updates per year. A few drawbacks of using FFmpeg are that there are minimal educational materials on the site, and it can be difficult for new broadcasters to pick up. 

Compatibility:

FFmpeg is compatible with Linux, Windows, and macOS. 

Pricing:

FFmpeg is free to download and use.

Setting up FFmpeg with Dacast:

Check outour guide for using FFmpeg on Dacast.

User Review:

“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. XSplit Broadcaster

XSplit’s streaming software has easy-to-use video content creator tools. Source: XSplita

XSplit is one of the best streaming software and has three primary products: Broadcaster, Vcam, and Connect Webcam. 

  • The Broadcaster is a live streaming and video-recording studio.
  • VCam is a webcam background remover tool.
  • Connect is a webcam tool that allows you to turn your smartphone into a webcam for live streams, presentations, and conference calls. 

XSplit can serve many use cases, such as: 

  • Video interviews
  • Professional calls
  • Virtual events and conferences
  • Interviews
  • Q&A Sessions
  • Product demonstrations
  • Online classes and webinars
  • Pitching and presentations 

XSplit Broadcaster is the primary tool we will focus on, although you can also use the other tools XSplit offers to live stream. 

Some of the top features of XSplit Broadcaster include:

  • Professional layouts
  • Multistreaming
  • Audio volume management
  • High video quality 
  • 24/7 support

The best part about XSplit Broadcaster is that its features aren’t just limited to live streaming and broadcasting. Instead, you can use the software to record on-demand video content and use features like audio volume management and multi-scenes to make the content engaging.

The most significant drawbacks to XSplit are that the platform can be confusing to navigate and has a learning curve. Some features require you to watch an advertisement before using the features. The stream program can strain some systems. 

Compatibility:

XSplit works with the Windows operating system. Although it is not currently compatible with macOS, a dedicated version that works with that operating system is coming soon.

Pricing:

XSplit Broadcaster offers three plans.  Here’s the monthly pricing for each: 

  • VCam Premium: $8 for 1 month  
  • Broadcaster Premium: $15 for 1 month
  • Premium Bundle: $20 for 1 month

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

Setting up XSplit with Dacast:

There is no integration or guide for setting up XSplit with Dacast. 

User Review:

“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.

8. SplitCam

SplitCam is excellent for splitting and mixing peer-to-peer video streams. Source:splitcam.com

SplitCam is a unique live streaming software that is a handy tool for different types of use cases, such as: 

Live events where viewer interaction, or interacting with more than one presenter is necessary, are helpful with this tool. 

Some of the most significant benefits of using SplitCam include 

  • 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
  • Free to use

The audio mixing, webcam splitting, and webcam effects features make it a great platform for creators who want to create engaging live streams and broadcasts. At the same time, it’s a powerful software solution for businesses that want to launch live streams to multiple platforms at once.

A drawback of SplitCam is the lack of encoding tools and mobile streaming support; you must be streaming from a computer. 

However, if you want to live stream from your webcam to popular social media channels with some video editing support, SplitCam’s one of the best. 

Compatibility:

SplitCam is compatible with Windows and macOS. You would have to run Windows 10 or 11 and have macOS Mojave or higher. 

Pricing:

SplitCam is free to download and use.

Setting up SplitCam with Dacast:

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

User Review:

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. Switchboard Live

Switchboard Live is a live streaming platform focused on simulcasting. It allows you to simulcast to unlimited destinations. The cloud-based streaming service supports video embedding, allowing you to share your live streams directly on your website.

One of the newer features of Switchboard Live is the ability to StreamShare. StreamShare allows viewers to carry your live stream on their social media platform without a password or technical setup. 

It allows you to stream not just to social media platforms that you own but also to those of your viewers and supporters, allowing you to access the audience potential of viewers’ live channels. 

Switchboard Live’s top benefits and features include:

  • Simulcasting
  • StreamShare
  • Video embedding
  • Quick setup
  • Cloud-based platform
  • Seamless integration with most OVPs

Switchboard Live has a comprehensive support system, including phone, chat, email, FAQs, forums, and a knowledge base. 

A few drawbacks include snags with setting up the platform and settings that require manual configuration that’s automated on most other major streaming platforms.

Compatibility:

The Switchboard Live website does not provide information on operating system compatibility or limitations.

Pricing:

Switchboard Live has three different pricing plans with endless streaming destinations. These plans include:

  • SMB: Custom pricing
  • Public Sector: Custom pricing
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing

Discounts are available for users who pay quarterly or annually.

All the above plans offer a free trial, no credit card required, allowing you to try out the different plans and find the one that is right for you. 

Setting up Switchboard Live with Dacast:

Please check out ourdedicated tutorial for more information on how to simulcast on Dacast through Switchboard Live.  

Switchboard is a reliable simulcasting tool for online broadcasters who want to simultaneously play their content on multiple video platforms.

User Review:

There are no public user reviews for Switchboard Live.

10. FFsplit

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. 

The most significant benefit of FFsplit is that it is free to use with a focus on live streaming. It allows users to merge multiple inputs and is easy to use.

The drawbacks of FFsplit are as follows: 

  • Not available for macOS
  • No longer being developed
  • Very basic

Compatibility:

The FFsplit site does not include compatibility information, butthird-party sources claim that FFsplit does not work on macOS.

Pros:

  • Free to use
  • Focused on live streaming
  • Support for local recording
  • Allows users to merge multiple inputs
  • Reliable tool
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • Not available for macOS
  • No longer being developed
  • Very basic

Pricing:

FFsplit is free to use.

Setting Up FFsplit on Dacast:

We don’t have a dedicated tutorial for setting up FFsplit with Dacast. However, you can use ourencoder setup guide for some general instructions.

User Review:

There are no public user reviews for FFsplit.

11. Prism Live Studio

Prism Live Studio is a live streaming solution that allows you to add stunning effects to your video stream and stream to multiple platforms simultaneously.

There are three different camera modes: 

Prism Live Studio can create a dynamic and interactive live stream, engage video-on-demand, or enhance your photos. 

There is both amobile and desktop version of Prism Live Studio. In addition, it works on both Windows and Apple operating systems. 

With Prism Live Studio, you can add a variety of different types of external content to your videos, such as:

  • Music
  • Animated text
  • Web pages
  • Media
  • Gaming content 
  • Interactive effects such as GIFS and stickers via GIPHY
  • Donation box option 
  • Screencasting 

Prism Live Studio also offers tools for simulcasting, allowing you to stream directly from the platform to multiple platforms at once, including:

  • YouTube 
  • Twitch
  • Afreeca TV
  • VLive
  • Naver TV
  • Naver Shopping Live
  • Facebook via RTMP

That said, the ability to go live from both desktops and smartphones is a great feature, as you’re not restricted by your device.

It supports a limited number of locations for simulcasting, and the production tools for live broadcasting are limited.

Compatibility:

Prism Live Studio is available for Windows and Apple operating systems and supports simulcasting to major platforms: YouTube, Twitch, Facebook, AfreecaTV, V LIVE, and NAVER TV. You would need Windows 10 or 11 – 64-bit or macOS 12.3 or higher versions. 

Pricing:

Pricing details are not on the Prism Live Studio site, but you can download the app for free on the App Store and Google Play Store.

Setting Up Prism Live Studio with Dacast:

We do not have a dedicated tutorial for using Prism Live Studio with Dacast. However, you can follow ourencoder setup guide for some general tips.

Prism Live Studio isn’t an all-in-one broadcasting software solution but provides you with simulcasting capabilities.

User Review:

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