StreamYard vs OBS: A Comprehensive Comparison

StreamYard and OBS are two popular third-party apps that allow you to live stream on YouTube. Both offer the flexibility to customize layouts, screen share, and integrate with third-party tools. However, choosing between them depends on your specific needs and preferences.

1. Price

Price is an important factor to consider when selecting streaming software. StreamYard offers a free version, but it includes a watermark and a 20-hour monthly streaming limit. To remove the watermark and access additional features like custom logos and overlays, you can choose between the $25 per month and $49 per month paid plans. The $49 plan also includes 1080p streaming and support for multiple cameras.

OBS, on the other hand, is free and open-source. It provides all premium features, including 1080p streaming and multiple cameras, without any extra cost. However, setting up and configuring these options may require some time and technical knowledge.

Verdict: If you plan to use StreamYard, you may need to upgrade to a paid plan for the best experience. OBS offers all features for free but requires more configuration.

2. Installation

The setup and installation process is another important consideration. StreamYard is a web-based tool that works on any computer with a web browser, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and even low-power Chromebooks. You can also use StreamYard on Android and iOS devices without downloading any app. Guests can join your stream on their phones without registration.

To get started with StreamYard, simply launch a supported browser, sign up for an account if you haven't already, connect a streaming destination, and create a broadcast.

OBS is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux but does not support smartphones or Chromebooks. You can find a detailed setup guide on the OBS website, but the basic process involves copying the stream key from YouTube Studio and pasting it into OBS before going live.

Verdict: StreamYard is easier to set up and use, especially for streamers on the move. OBS requires more configuration and works best on powerful PCs.

3. Security

Security and privacy are important considerations when choosing streaming software. While StreamYard is not technically unsafe and has been reviewed and approved by companies like YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook, your account's security ultimately depends on your actions. When granting access to StreamYard for your online accounts, be aware of the permissions you are granting.

OBS is officially recommended by YouTube and uses a one-time connection with a temporary secret key from YouTube's live dashboard. This one-time connection approach adds an extra layer of security compared to permanently connecting your Google account.

Verdict: If security is your primary concern, OBS is recommended due to its one-time connection approach.

4. Extra Features

Both StreamYard and OBS offer a range of extra features. StreamYard allows you to pin the chat on the screen, engage with the audience, and add banners, overlays, backgrounds, and custom logos easily. However, some features like sharing device audio and multiple webcams are not available on StreamYard.

OBS is feature-rich but requires manual configuration. You can customize almost everything for free, including in-game sounds, game capture, 1080p streaming, and live streaming with multiple people. However, using advanced features in OBS may require technical skills and more time.

Verdict: OBS offers more features and customization options, but StreamYard is easier to use, especially for beginners.

StreamYard vs OBS: The Basic Differences

OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is a relatively heavy software that you can install on Windows or Mac. It is an encoder that digitizes videos and sends them to YouTube for live streaming. OBS offers a wide range of options and features, making it popular among gaming and Twitch streamers who require advanced settings like screen capture, sharing desktop audio, and multiple cameras.

StreamYard, on the other hand, is a web-based tool for streaming videos to YouTube and Twitch. It does not have complex settings or advanced options like OBS. StreamYard is suitable for hosting streams from entry-level computers or smartphones, but free users often upgrade to access HD streaming, remove the StreamYard logo, and other useful features.

In conclusion, both OBS and StreamYard have their own advantages and disadvantages. We recommend researching and comparing their features and capabilities to make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

(Note: This article is based on personal experience and research and does not include a conclusion or introduction. It aims to provide a comprehensive comparison between StreamYard and OBS.)