Should YOU Use Streamlabs Or OBS? (Best Streaming Software, Alerts, And More)

Summary

This video script discusses the evolution of streaming software from 2021 to 2024, comparing OBS and Streamlabs OBS. It highlights Streamlabs' user-friendly features for beginners but points out its high CPU usage and instability. The script also addresses the drama between OBS and Streamlabs, including legal disputes and ethical concerns. It explores various alert platforms, their integration with streaming software, and their impact on stream performance and growth. The narrator advocates for choosing the software that best fits one's needs, emphasizing the importance of stream quality over the specific tools used.

Takeaways

• 😀 Three years ago, Streamlabs was the go-to software for streaming due to its user-friendly setup.
• 🕒 Two years ago, OBS gained popularity as it was compatible with Stream Elements and was considered superior overall.
• 🌟 In 2024, the landscape has evolved with numerous streaming software options, each with unique features.
• 🔧 OBS is open-source, allowing for community contributions and modifications, which has significantly contributed to the growth of the streaming industry.
• 🚀 Streamlabs OBS is built on OBS's open-source code but has added features like alerts, chat boxes, and other widgets, making it appealing to beginners.
• 🛠 Despite added features, Streamlabs OBS is reported to be more resource-intensive and buggy compared to OBS, which can be a drawback for some users.
• 💻 OBS remains the original choice for many due to its flexibility, low resource usage, and active community support.
• 🔗 Streamlabs is criticized for its business practices, including alleged unethical marketing strategies and conflicts with the OBS team.
• 🎚️ Stream Elements is a popular choice for streamers due to its visual scene editor and compatibility with YouTube and Twitch, but it may lead to aggressive sponsorship pitches.
• 🎮 Twitch Alerts, integrated within the Twitch platform, offers extensive customization without additional software, making it a favorite for many streamers.
• 🤖 Streamlabs, Stream Elements, Twitch Alerts, and Streamer Bot each cater to different needs, but the choice ultimately depends on the streamer's specific requirements and preferences.

Q & A

What streaming software was recommended three years ago?

Three years ago, the recommended streaming software was Streamlabs, as it was straightforward and the easiest to set up for going live.

Why was OBS suggested as a streaming software two years ago?

Two years ago, OBS was suggested because it works well with stream elements and is considered overall better for streaming.

What is the significance of OBS being open-source software?

OBS being open-source means it can be used, studied, changed, and distributed by anyone, which encourages industry growth and innovation. It's foundational to the streaming industry.

How did Streamlabs OBS come into existence?

Streamlabs OBS was created by taking the source code of OBS and building additional features on top of it, such as alert widgets, chat boxes, and other functionalities.

What are some pros of using Streamlabs OBS?

Streamlabs OBS has added many features over the years, making it beginner-friendly with integrated alerts, chat widgets, and an overlay tool that simplifies the setup process.

What are some cons of using Streamlabs OBS?

Streamlabs OBS uses more CPU resources than OBS, can be buggy, and often requires the software to be open for certain features to work properly.

What drama has Streamlabs been involved in regarding its relationship with OBS?

Streamlabs faced drama for using 'OBS' in their name without permission, running ads above the original OBS website, and for taking free tools and locking them behind a paywall.

Why might a beginner find OBS daunting to use?

OBS can be daunting for beginners because it lacks quick installs and requires manual setup, offering no built-in alerts, chat labels, or widgets.

What is the advantage of using third-party software with OBS?

Using third-party software with OBS allows for customization and additional features without bloating the core software, maintaining its efficiency and focus.

What is the recommendation for a new streamer starting from scratch?

For a new streamer starting from scratch, the recommendation is to use OBS with Twitch alerts or OBS with Stream Elements, depending on the platform they are streaming on.

What is the narrator's perspective on the debate between using OBS and Streamlabs OBS?

The narrator believes that the debate between using OBS and Streamlabs OBS is unnecessary if the chosen software meets the streamer's needs and provides a quality experience for the audience.