Streamlabs VS. OBS: Which Better to Choose [Detailed Compare 2024]

By Charlotte | Follow | Updated on February 11, 2024

Introduction:

In terms of seamless recording, people usually prefer Streamlabs or OBS Studio, but is Streamlabs better than OBS or vice versa? Both the recording software offers unique advantages with awesome features, and their compatibility with leading streaming platforms makes them easy to use for any user. So, the debate on finding and choosing a better platform can lead to Streamlabs vs OBS.

Before choosing one, you must consider several factors, such as which is good for CPU usage, streaming, recording, and other purposes. This article from AWZware will break down the differences and offer a comparison guide to help you settle for one. Let's see which of the two will be better: OBS vs Streamlabs.

What Is Streamlabs?

Streamlabs vs. OBS controversy (Streamlabs formerly called Streamlabs OBS, so some users can be confused with OBS Studio) is common among users. So what is Streamlabs OBS, and is it the same as OBS Studio?  

Supported OS: Windows 10; Mac OS X 10.14 or higher

Price: USD 149/year (free version available )

Streamlabs is also an all-in-one streaming software developed by Tom Maneri, Ali Moiz, and Murtaza Hussain. It is based on OBS but was designed to improve on the original software. It was initially known as TwitchAlerts before becoming Streamlabs OBS in 2016, dropping the OBS in 2021. Logitech acquired the company in 2019. Just like OBS Studio, Streamlabs is open-source and free to use. 

Let's quickly take a look at its pros and cons to weigh the software on all grounds. 

What Is OBS Studio?

Before knowing Streamlabs vs OBS Studio, let us see what OBS Studio (or simply named OBS) actually is. 

Supported OS: Windows 8/8.1/10; Mac OS X 10.13 or higher, and Linux computers

Price: Free software

OBS is a free, open-source platform developed by Lain Bailey with capabilities to record your screen and stream live videos. It's popular with many video streamers because it can capture and record multiple scenes (or screens) at the same time.

Let us have a close look at the pros and cons of OBS Studio. 

Streamlabs VS OBS: Which Is Better

Streamlabs or OBS? Which one is apt for you? While both software have unique features and advantages, let us compare the two from several main aspects to help you choose according to your needs.

When it comes to OBS vs Streamlabs, you must consider factors like system compatibility, resource requirements, customization, features, and cost to make an informed decision. Let's look at each factor for a thorough comparison. 

1. CPU Usage

When looking at these two platforms, you may wonder if OBS is better than Streamlabs for CPU Usage. As we've seen, OBS Studio represents a reasonably small load for your CPU. On the contrary, Streamlabs places a lot of pressure on your CPU. This could be a significant factor in choosing between them if your computer isn't up to the task. 

2. Streaming

When it comes to multistreaming and choosing between Streamlabs OBS vs OBS, Streamlabs wins out. Though streaming to more than one platform with OBS Studio is technically possible, this isn't an in-built feature but one you need to add. 

3. Recording

Is recording from Streamlabs better than OBS? Streamlabs offers a video quality of 720p or 1080p; on the other hand, OBS Studio records seamlessly in 1080p full HD. However, both the software have separate audio capture channels and allow webcam feed recording.

4. Cost

Cost is a crucial factor when talking about OBS Studio vs Streamlabs and how to choose from them. OBS Studio is entirely free to download and use. It provides users with open broadcaster software at no cost. Streamlabs is also free software, but you'll need to upgrade to Prime for full access to all its premium features. A paid subscription can be pricey at USD 149/year.

5. Basic Features 

If you compare the basic features and offerings of the two platforms straight after downloading, Streamlabs definitely wins. After all, Streamlabs was built to be an 'improved' version of the original OBS Studio. 

6. Compatible Operating Systems 

OBS Studio is compatible with Windows PCs, macOS, and Linux computers. On the other hand, Streamlabs is compatible with Windows PC and macOS. Furthermore, Streamlabs has built-in monetization, whereas OBS Studio lacks one.  

7. Streaming with Remote Guests 

Podcasters and content creators find remote guests a handy feature as it is easy to record interviews and podcasts with it. Sadly, OBS Studio does not have remote guests as an integral feature, whereas it is built-in in Streamlabs and has been introduced as 'Collab Cam.' 

8. Monetization 

OBS Studio is 100% free, which certainly draws many users to the software. You must know that despite being pricey, Streamlabs OBS also offers popular features that are absent from OBS Studio. However, Streamlabs approaches streaming as a potential moneymaker for its subscribers. The platform is designed to help users monetize their content with its native “accept tips” feature.

Whether you should use OBS or Streamlabs, the choice hinges on your priorities. OBS Studio is the way to go if you need powerful, customizable, and low-resource streaming software. For a more streamlined, user-friendly experience with built-in features for engaging with your audience, Streamlabs is the better choice.

After seeing the differences between OBS and Streamlabs, choosing one comes down to your needs as a streamer. Streamlabs is built on the OBS engine, so you can find many similar features inside the platform. Streamlabs OBS is a long-term commitment between both parties. However, if you are not impressed with either, you can try a more powerful yet user-friendly software like AWZ Screen Recorder.  

Best Alternative Recording Software for Windows and Mac

You have seen the differences and must have chosen your go-to software through OBS vs Streamlabs OBS. However, if you want an excellent alternative recording software for your Windows or Mac computers, AWZ Screen Recorder should end your search.

AWZ Screen Recorder is an easy-to-use streaming video recorder to record and capture streaming videos. You can repurpose the content and even watch a specific part of it at any time without requiring internet access. With built-in basic editing tools, you can trim and add text or audio commentary to the recorded videos and upload them online. AWZ Screen Recorder also lets you record games in their original quality without a watermark or recording time limit. 

Features and advantages of AWZ Screen Recorder

• Records full-screen or targeted region with custom recording 
• Allows auto-region selection 
• Supports scheduled recording 
• Provides annotation tools with basic video editing like compressing and trimming a video
• Offers a dedicated audio recorder and high-resolution webcam recorder

Get AWZ Mac Screen Recorder

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The Final Wrap

When selecting between Streamlabs and OBS, the 'best' one is subjective and depends on your particular needs as a streamer, podcaster, or content creator. OBS is low on CPU usage and better for those who want more control and customization and have some experience with streaming software. On the other hand, Streamlabs is more user-friendly and resource-intensive, making it ideal for beginners or those who want an all-in-one solution with integrated streaming tools.

We have compared several common factors to help you pick one by learning about Streamlabs OBS desktop software vs. OBS Studio.