StreamYard alternatives: The top 8 tools to choose from

Are you searching for a StreamYard alternative to improve your live streaming setup? While StreamYard is a popular choice, it is not the only option out there. In fact, several great tools offer similar or even more advanced features, added flexibility, and a range of pricing options. In this article, we’ll review some of the best services in the market, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons. Whether you’re looking for a free alternative to StreamYard or a paid solution, we’ll help you find the live streaming tool that best fits your needs.

1. Restream

Restream is an all-in-one, powerful live streaming tool designed to help creators broadcast their content to multiple platforms simultaneously. With seamless integrations, advanced functionalities, and a user-friendly interface, Restream is the ultimate solution for professionals and beginners alike.

Key features:

• Multistreaming to over 30 platforms, including YouTube, Twitch, X, and more.
• Browser-based live studio, no downloads required.
• Integrated chat to manage audience interactions from different platforms.
• Advanced event scheduling options, including pre-recorded streams.
• High-quality audio and video recordings.

Pros:

• Extensive list of platform integrations.
• Free multistreaming to 2 channels
• 24/7 live chat support by real humans.
• Works with RTMP streaming via tools like OBS.
• Stream and record in Full HD (1080p).
• Ability to stream playlists of videos.
• Analytics to track performance across multiple channels.
• Paid plans start at just $19/mo (or only $16/mo for annual subscriptions).

Cons:

• Streaming to Facebook Pages is a paid feature.
• No team seats on the free plan.

If Restream sounds like a good fit, check out our detailed comparison of Restream vs. StreamYard here.

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2. OBS Studio

OBS Studio is a free and open-source streaming software. It’s widely used by streamers who seek advanced customization options and a dedicated desktop app. However, it requires more technical knowledge to set up compared to browser-based platforms like StreamYard or Restream.

Key features:

• Live streaming and recording abilities.
• Setting up scenes with various sources.
• Can be used with a range of free third-party plugins.
• Audio mixing.

Pros:

• Completely free and open-source.
• High level of customization for scenes and stream settings.
• Local recordings.
• Advanced integrations with platforms like Twitch.

Cons:

• Steep learning curve for beginners.
• No built-in multistreaming (requires plugins or Restream).
• No dedicated support.

3. Ecamm Live

Ecamm Live is a professional live streaming and video production software designed for Mac users. It provides advanced tools for customizing your broadcast and offers a simple, intuitive interface.

Key features:

• Integrated with 10 platforms and multistreaming tools (including Restream).
• Support for 4K streaming.
• Built-in chat and comments management.

Pros:

• Advanced overlays and web widgets.
• Virtual camera and microphone.
• Scene controls.

Cons:

• Only available for Mac; requires downloading an app, which can add extra load to your system.
• Recordings are only saved locally on your Mac, with no cloud backup.
• No free plan.
• Inviting remote guests requires Ecamm’s highest-paid plan.

4. Riverside.fm

Riverside is an online platform that allows users to record and stream high-quality audio and video. It’s designed for podcasters, remote interviews, and live streams, emphasizing high production quality and editing capabilities.

Key features:

• Multitrack audio and video recording.
• Browser-based, no downloads required.
• AI editing tools.
• Full HD multistreaming.

Pros:

• 4K studio recordings.
• Teleprompter.
• Cloud recordings.

Cons:

• Primarily focused on recording, not as much on live streaming features.
  • Only integrated with 6 streaming platforms.
  • Multi-chat support is limited to Facebook, YouTube, and Twitch.
• Custom graphics and Full HD require an additional subscription.
• Team seats are exclusive to custom Enterprise packages.

5. Streamlabs

Streamlabs is a streaming software built on OBS, but it has added features to make the experience more user-friendly. It’s popular with games and streamers who want easy access to donation systems and audience interaction tools.

Key features:

• Custom alerts.
• Integrated donation systems.
• Available for desktop, mobile, and Xbox.

Pros:

• Free overlays and themes.
• Multi-chat support for 5 streaming platforms.
• Ability to record your streams.

Cons:

• No free multistreaming (unless you use Restream).
• Higher CPU usage.
• Steep learning curve for beginners; may feel more suitable to gamers than other creators.
• Inviting more than one guest requires a paid plan.

6. Castr

Castr is another versatile live streaming platform designed to help creators broadcast live across multiple channels simultaneously. With a focus on multistreaming and video hosting, Castr offers a reliable solution for content creators and businesses looking to expand their reach across various platforms.

Key features:

• Multistreaming to integrated and custom channels.
• VOD (Video on Demand) hosting and storage.
• Cloud recordings.

Pros:

• Password-protected embedded player.
• RTMP pull links.
• Live chat support.

Cons:

• No free plan.
• Limits the amount of bandwidth available for live streaming and video hosting.
• No browser-based Studio.
• A third-party encoder is required for streaming.

7. Dacast

Dacast is a live streaming and video hosting platform that caters primarily to businesses and organizations. Known for its focus on security, monetization, and white-label streaming, Dacast is a popular choice for broadcasters that need to manage video content at scale.

Key features:

• Live streaming and simulcasting.
• White-label streaming with no branding.
• On-demand video hosting.
• Real-time analytics.

Pros:

• Unlimited concurrent viewers.
• Built-in monetization options.
• Live and VOD playlists.
• Full HD streaming.

Cons:

• Multistreaming is limited to a set amount of hours per subscription tier.
• No free plan.
• Lacks built-in engagement tools like guest invitations.

8. OneStream Live

OneStream Live is a cloud-based streaming platform that allows users to multistream live or pre-recorded videos. It’s especially known for its scheduling features, making it a great tool for marketers and creators who want to automate their streaming workflows.

Key features:

• Multistreaming live and pre-recorded content.
• Browser-based live studio.
• Embed code for your live streams.
• Personalized landing pages.

Pros:

• No need to install additional software.
• Team seats on all paid plans.
• Full HD streaming.
• RTMP streaming with third-party encoders.

Cons:

• Duration limits for live streams.
• Limited live studio features for free users.
• No permanent video storage.

Choosing the right StreamYard alternative

Choosing the best alternative to StreamYard ultimately depends on your unique needs and use case. If budgeting is important to you, you may also consider whether you prefer a free StreamYard alternative or if you’d rather invest in a paid option for a better experience.

For creators who prefer desktop apps, OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and Ecamm are great options that provide high levels of control and customization. OneStream Live can also serve as a good browser-based StreamYard alternative, while Castr and Dacast may better suit users with video hosting needs. Riverside is a strong contender, too, but mainly for those focused on recording and editing.

For streamers seeking a tool that combines ease of use with a full suite of powerful functionalities, Restream stands out as the top choice, offering everything from free plans to advanced, high-end features. The browser-based Studio is a powerful alternative to StreamYard, helping you create professional-looking streams with a wide range of customizations. Plus, if you choose to switch to a desktop app like OBS, Streamlabs, or Ecamm, you can connect your software to Restream and enjoy the benefits of simulcasting to over 30 supported platforms.