Streamlabs OBS Vs. OBS Studio- Which Is The Better Broadcasting Software?
If you’re searching for the right streaming platform, you must know that Streamlabs OBS and OBS Studio are two of the most popular options in the market today.
But which one is the better broadcasting software?
In this Streamlabs OBS vs. OBS Studio post, I will compare the two streaming platforms based on their features, pros, cons, and pricing.
At the end of the article, you will have enough information about both live streaming platforms to choose which one is the best for you.
Let’s get right into it!
Disclaimer: If you buy something using the links in this article, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Know that I only promote stuff that I use and trust for the sake of my readers and the reputation of this site.
What Is Broadcasting Software?
Broadcast software, or live streaming software, helps you convert your video feed (from a channel like Twitch) into a format suitable for live production and broadcasting.
Broadcasting software may also include other features such as encoding and video editing. Broadcasting software is easy to use, even for beginners. You do not need any special skills to start streaming with your live streaming account.
Recommended Reading:
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Streamlabs Open Broadcaster Software (SLOBS)
Streamlabs Open Broadcaster Software, or SLOBS, is a free software for live streaming and broadcasting. It comes with all the features of OBS Studio but is an improved version of it.
Features/Performance
SLOBS is a one-stop-shop for game streamers. The software offers you all the advanced features that you need.
SLOBS gives you free tools like layouts, alerts, TTS (Text-To-Speech), and widgets. SLOBS also allows you to customize media and choose the voice that reads out your messages.
The best part about Streamlabs OBS is that you do not need third-party tools or plugins for added functionality. Almost everything is 1-click install.
Built-in chat allows you to view your chat message and moderate them from within the software. That means you do not have to switch between windows while streaming to interact with your viewers.
SLOBS also has in-app alerts.
In this section, we’ll look at some of the key features of SLOBS and its basic performance.
Built-in chat
One of the most prominent features of SLOBS is its built-in features for chat. Since you can chat inside the platform, it eliminates the need to have multiple tabs open at the same time.
The chat feature also offers a Chatbot and other mod tools that will help users engage with their audience.
Free customization
SLOBS offers users a variety of customization options with its free themes. This will help you customize depending on the game you play or your personal preferences. You can choose from many static as well as animated templates to make your live stream look just the way you want.
Test widget
The Test Widget is another unique feature of SLOBS. It allows you to do a final check before you go live. With this Test button, you can make sure that your stream alerts are set properly and everything looks fine before your viewers can watch your live stream.
Pros
- The setup process is very simple and quick
- Customization options and templates are free
- SLOBS has a useful built-in chat feature
- Test button helps you do a final check before streaming
Cons
- More CPU usage
- SLOBS is only available for Windows
- SLOBS does not offer sound commands
How Much Does SLOBS Cost?
SLOBS is a completely free open-source broadcasting software. In fact, once you join, you can promote SLOBS with an affiliate link and earn $0.50 for every person who installs SLOBS using your link.
Additionally, SLOBS will donate $0.50 to a charity of your choice for every person that signs up with your link.
Installation And Setup
SLOBS has a pretty simple installation process. Download the installer on your desktop and run it. Once the installation is done, SLOBS configures your settings and brings you to your dashboard.
You can choose to configure the settings yourself and connect to your streaming account (YouTube, Twitch, or any other compatible streaming platform).
Log in to your Twitch or YouTube account through Streamlabs OBS.
Next, you will need to run the auto optimizer. Click on “Settings” < “General” < “Run Auto Optimizer”.
Next click “Settings” < “Stream” and enter your stream key here.
Choose from the pre-existing themes and click “Go Live” when you are ready.
Once that is done, all you need to do is add the stream key and you’re ready to stream!
Open Broadcaster Software Studio (OBS Studio)
Open Broadcaster Software Studio, or OBS Studio, is another free and open-source broadcasting software that allows you to record your computer screen and broadcast it to an audience.
Features/Performance
Since this is an OBS vs Streamlabs OBS article, let’s take a brief look at what OBS Studio has to offer its users.
OBS Studio offers basic recording and broadcasting features. There are, however, plugins and third-party tools that you can install for added functionality.
OBS Studio gives you a few free overlays, but you will have to pay for the premium overlays.
Here are some of the key features of OBS Studio:
User-friendly interface
OBS Studio has a fully customizable interface with drag-and-drop elements.
Low CPU usage
OBS Studio’s low CPU usage allows you to stream without any hiccups. A lower CPU usage means higher FPS and thus higher quality streaming.
Multi-platform support
OBS Studio supports a wide variety of streaming platforms which makes it extremely versatile. You can stream on Twitch, YouTube Live, Facebook Live, YouTube Gaming, and many other platforms. OBS Studio also supports mac OS, Windows, and Linux systems.
Pros
- OBS Studio is open-source software. Its code is released to the public so that developers can improve it.
- OBS Studio provides regular updates to users
- Lower CPU usage when compared to SLOBS
- Supports multiple platforms
- Simple and intuitive dashboard for live streamers
Cons
- Does not support Windows XP
- You cannot link audio files from your desktop to play on your stream
- Very few plugins are available for the software
How Much Does OBS Cost?
OBS Studio is free open-source software that is available for anyone to download and use.
Installation And Setup
Setting up OBS Studio is pretty straightforward. First, you will need to download the desktop installation file and start the setup process.
The installation consists of mainly allowing the streaming software access to your system. You can choose to run the auto-configuration wizard with the recommended settings in just a few clicks.
If you want to stream, you can change the frame rate and streaming resolution.
Next, you will have to select the platform you want to stream on. OBS Studio offers live streaming on 30 different platforms including Twitch, YouTube Gaming, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live. You can even stream on custom servers.
Enter your stream key for YouTube or Twitch in the field when prompted. You will then be shown a screen for testing your bitrate from servers located in different countries.
Once this is complete, click “Apply Settings” and then “Start Streaming”.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between OBS and SLOBS?
OBS Studio and SLOBS have pretty much all the same features, so it all comes down to personal preference.
For beginners, both streaming software are pretty much the same. But if you are a more experienced user, then you’ll find that Streamlabs OBS (SLOBS) offers you a lot more in terms of additional features.
Does SLOBS use more CPU than OBS?
Since SLOBS boasts of more advanced features, it, unfortunately, takes up more CPU usage than OBS Studio. So if you can do without the extra features, OBS Studio would be better for you because it offers a higher FPS (Frame per Second) rate.
Conclusion
As you may have gathered by now, both SLOBS and OBS have all the same basic features. SLOBS has a few extra features, but this affects its CPU usage, and thus, results in a lower FPS.
It all comes down to personal preference in the end. Would you rather compromise on the extra bells and whistles so that you get a higher FRS while streaming? Or would you prefer a better FPS rate instead that increases your game performance?
Let us know in the comments below! 🙂
Also, please do share this article to help your fellow streamers. I’d really appreciate it! 🙂
