20 Best Live Streaming Platforms: Ultimate Guide for 2023
Introduction
Streaming live video and audio content to the internet, also known as webcasting, is a process that transmits content in real time. The rise of technology and the increase in internet speed have made live streaming increasingly popular for communicating, sharing, and showcasing content. With live streaming platforms, individuals and businesses are able to connect with their target audience in a variety of ways, including video hosting and live broadcasting. We will explore different aspects of live streaming, from how it works to the best platforms on the market, to help you decide which platform is right for you.
Quick Links
- Introduction
- Best Live Streaming Platforms: Comparison and Review
- Live Streaming Platforms: Who Uses Them and Why?
- Benefits of Live Streaming Platforms:
- How to livestream
- Read more stories
Best Live Streaming Platforms: Comparison and Review
Live streaming is one of the most powerful avenues for engaging with your audience, whether you're a business owner, a content creator, or a marketer. However, with so many live streaming platforms available, it can be tough to know which one to choose. In this article, we'll compare some of the best live streaming platforms to help you make an informed decision.
IBM Cloud Video
IBM Cloud Video is a cloud-based video streaming platform that offers a range of features, including video hosting, organization, management, and multistreaming to several platforms at once. IBM Cloud Video provides advanced monetization options, stream analytics and monitoring, and high-level security features, making it a great option for businesses and organizations. However, its steep learning curve and high pricing plans might not be suitable for everyone.
Livestream by Vimeo
Livestream by Vimeo is a video platform that allows users to live stream and host video content. It offers a wide range of features, including video hosting, organization, and management, and multistreaming to several platforms at once. Livestream by Vimeo also provides advanced video editing and embedding capabilities, and advanced monetization options. Its easy-to-use interface and setup make it a great option for beginners, but its limited device compatibility and customization options might not be ideal for everyone.
Wowza
Wowza is a cloud-based live streaming platform that provides businesses and organizations with video hosting, organization, and management, and multistreaming to several platforms at once. Some of the advantages of Wowza include its high-quality video streaming, advanced video organization and management features, and RTMP streaming support. However, its steep learning curve and high pricing plans might not be suitable for everyone.
Dacast
Dacast is a live streaming platform that offers a range of features, including video hosting, organization, and management, and multistreaming to several platforms at once. Dacast provides advanced monetization options, RTMP streaming support, and advanced video organization and management features, making it a great option for businesses and organizations. However, its limited customization options and device compatibility might not be ideal for everyone.
Brightcove
Brightcove is a cloud-based live streaming platform that offers a range of features, including video hosting, organization, and management, and multistreaming to several platforms at once. Some of the advantages of Brightcove include its high-quality video streaming, advanced monetization options, and RTMP streaming support. However, its steep learning curve and high pricing plans might not be suitable for everyone.
Kaltura
Kaltura is a cloud-based live streaming platform that provides businesses and organizations with video hosting, organization, and management, and multistreaming to several platforms at once. Some of the advantages of Kaltura include its advanced monetization options, high-quality video streaming, and RTMP streaming support. However, its steep learning curve and limited customization options might not be suitable for everyone.
Panopto
Panopto is a cloud-based video management and delivery platform that provides businesses and organizations with a comprehensive set of tools for live video streaming, recording, and management. Panopto provides advanced video organization and management features, RTMP streaming support, and advanced monetization options. However, its steep learning curve and high pricing plans might not be suitable for everyone.
YouTube Live
YouTube Live is a cloud-based live streaming platform that provides businesses and organizations with video hosting, organization, and management, and multistreaming to several platforms at once. Some of the advantages of YouTube Live include its ease of use, wide range of features, and integration with a variety of other video platforms. However, its limited customization options might not be ideal for everyone.
Zoom
Zoom is a video conferencing platform that's also great for live streaming webinars and events. It's easy to use, and it has a range of features like screen sharing and breakout rooms.
Streamyard
Streamyard is a browser-based live streaming platform that's easy to use and has a range of features like custom overlays, multi-streaming to multiple platforms, and the ability to bring in guests remotely.
Restream
Restream is a multi-streaming platform that allows you to stream to multiple platforms at once, like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. It also has a range of features like custom overlays and graphics.
Crowdcast
Crowdcast is a live streaming platform that's great for hosting webinars and online events. It has a range of features like audience engagement tools, chat, and the ability to bring in guests remotely.
Be.Live
Be.Live is a browser-based live streaming platform that's great for beginners. It has a range of features like custom branding, audience engagement tools, and the ability to bring in guests remotely.
Live Streaming Platforms: Who Uses Them and Why?
Various content creators and professionals use live streaming platforms to make money and interact with their followers. Many major brands have a presence on streaming sites, and some professionals get their entire income from monetization efforts on social sharing platforms. Below are some of the most common uses for live streaming platforms.
Businesses and Brands
Businesses and brands use streaming services to increase brand awareness and promote their products or services. Streaming platforms provide brands and companies a unique opportunity to interact with customers and better understand their target audiences.
Speakers and Trainers
Public speakers, life coaches, online trainers, and other professional subject matter experts use streaming platforms to promote and deliver content and services. Some subject matter experts have used streaming services to start a podcast and make money podcasting. Personal trainers and life coaches especially can make money on streaming platforms by monetizing their broadcasts.
Influencers
Mobile broadcasting features are important for influencers who need to live stream on the go. Social media influencers use streaming platforms to broadcast their content quickly and interact with their followers and subscribers. These live streamers use streaming apps to reach national and global audiences with just a couple of taps.
Benefits of Live Streaming Platforms:
Live streaming platforms offer a plethora of benefits that make them an ideal choice for businesses, content creators, and influencers. Here are some of the key advantages of using a live streaming platform:
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Engaging Content:
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Live streaming creates more engaging content than pre-recorded videos. It allows the audience to participate in real-time and interact with the streamer, creating a more personal and authentic connection.
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Easy Setup
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Live streaming platforms require minimal equipment and setup time. You can go live from anywhere using just a smartphone, making it easy to create content on the go.
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Repurposing Content
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Live streaming services offer instant replays, which can be repurposed for marketing and business opportunities. The recorded footage can also be uploaded as a video on demand, extending its lifespan.
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Long Streaming Hours
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Top platforms allow you to stream for up to 12 hours, giving you plenty of time to create engaging content.
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Multi-Platform Streaming
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Live streaming platforms offer the ability to stream on various platforms, including web players, mobile apps, social media platforms, and more.
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Monetization
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Live streaming platforms make it easy to monetize your content and earn revenue. You can circumvent ad-blockers and monetize your live streams through sponsorships, donations, and paid subscriptions.
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User-Friendly Technology
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Live streaming platforms offer user-friendly technology that simplifies workflows and allows content creators to focus on creating engaging content.
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How to livestream
- On the other side, software streaming describes the computer applications used to control, handle, and send a live video stream over the internet. These programs comprise platforms for live streaming, video encoders, players, and other software tools required to provide viewers with a high-quality live video feed. OBS Studio, Wirecast, and XSplit are a few popular examples of software streaming applications.
- Hardware streaming is the term for the actual tools that are used to record, encrypt, and stream live video over the internet. For high-quality live streaming, this equipment are required, and may comprise cameras, microphones, encoders, and other specialized devices.
1. Software based streaming
a) Live Streaming on a Computer
If you want to live stream from your computer, you will need to use a streaming software program. These programs offer a range of features, including the ability to stream to multiple platforms at once, upload and live stream pre-recorded videos, and customize your live stream with special effects. Some popular streaming software programs include:
List of best live streaming software for PC and Mac:
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- OBS Studio is a well-known open-source application for live streaming and video recording. The features include support for numerous cameras, audio blending, and scene switching.
- XSplit Broadcaster is software designed specifically for live broadcasting. It is compatible with several sites, including Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook, and offers an intuitive user interface and a variety of customisable themes.
- Wirecast is a live streaming tool of the highest caliber, offering a number of cutting-edge capabilities including support for several cameras, video editing, and advanced audio mixing.
- vMix: This application offers a variety of live streaming features, including video mixing, chroma key, and support for numerous cameras. It supports a number of video formats and provides a user-friendly interface.
- VidBlasterX : The professional video production and live streaming tool. VidBlasterX has a number of features, including video mixing, video transitions, and support for multiple cameras. It also supports a wide variety of other video formats.
- Streamlabs OBS: You may stream live to several platforms with Streamlabs OBS, a free streaming program. A number of capabilities are available with Streamlabs OBS, including support for numerous sources, customized overlays, and special effects.
- WebRTC: WebRTC is an open-source technology that provides real-time communication without the need for extra software, including streaming video and audio, from a web browser. This technology enables users to live stream video from their phone or computer using a suitable browser and is supported by a variety of live streaming services, such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch.
- OBS Studio is a well-known open-source application for live streaming and video recording. The features include support for numerous cameras, audio blending, and scene switching.
b) Live Streaming on a phone
You can live stream while on the move thanks to a number of smartphone apps. These applications are simple to use and frequently provide a variety of features to improve your live streaming experience. Several well-known live streaming smartphone apps are:
Facebook Live: Using the Facebook Live app, you can live stream right from your Facebook profile. You may connect with a large audience with Facebook Live and have real-time conversations with your fans.
Instagram Live: You can live stream right from your Instagram account with this app. Instagram Live is a fantastic platform for connecting with a younger audience and having more in-depth conversations with your followers.
TikTok LIVE: The social networking app TikTok enables users to make brief videos. You may live broadcast and communicate with your fans in real time with TikTok LIVE.
Youtube Live: You can live broadcast directly from your YouTube account using the app YouTube Live. You can engage with your fans, broadcast live, and even make money with YouTube Live.
RTMP Camera: RTMP Camera is a smartphone app that enables users to live stream content straight from their mobile device to services like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch that support the RTMP protocol. It offers a straightforward interface that is simple to use for both recording and transmitting video. The program allows you to add music, change the video quality, and support different video resolutions.
Astra Streaming Studio is a mobile application that offers a full complement of tools for live streaming from your phone. It offers broadcasting to several websites, such as Twitch, Facebook, and YouTube. The software allows users to produce and share previously recorded films and includes customisable overlays and branding.
nanoStream Live Video Encoder: With the help of the smartphone software nanoStream Live Video Encoder, users may live stream high-definition video to sites like Twitch, Facebook, and YouTube right from their phone. The program offers real-time video and audio transcoding, low-latency streaming, and the option to add graphics, titles, and overlays.
Larix Broadcaster: Larix Broadcaster is a smartphone program that enables users to live broadcast video from their phone to several websites, such as Twitch, Facebook, and YouTube. The program features real-time video and audio encoding for high-quality streaming and supports a variety of video resolutions, including full HD. It also has the option to capture and store videos, as well as add images, titles, and overlays.
Broadcast Me: With the help of the smartphone application Broadcast Me, users may live broadcast video from their phones to Twitch, Facebook, and YouTube. Users may add images, titles, and overlays to the app's real-time video and audio transcoding as well as to their videos. Additionally, it provides the choice to broadcast content in several languages as well as the ability to record and store videos.
Wirecast Go is a smartphone application that enables users to live stream video from their phone to several websites, such as Twitch, Facebook, and YouTube. The program offers comprehensive video creation tools, including graphics, titles, and overlays, as well as real-time video and audio transcoding. It also provides the possibility to capture and save movies, in addition to the other features.
It also provides the option to stream in other languages, as well as the ability to record and store videos.
2. Hardware based live streaming
Comparing the Top Live Streaming hardware encoders: Which One is Right for You?
Teradek VidiU - small, lightweight hardware encoder that can broadcast live video to a number of websites, such as Facebook and YouTube.
Positives:
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Easy to set it up and use.
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supports widely used streaming platforms.
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Built-in Wi-Fi for simple streaming.
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Cons:
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Limited video inputs.
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The video quality might not be perfect for transmission by some professionals.
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limited alternatives for audio input.
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NewTek TriCaster - multi-camera video production system that allows for live special effects, camera switching, and streaming to many platforms.
Positives:
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- Good video output.
- Flexible and feature-rich framework for producing videos.
- enough video inputs and outputs are supported.
Cons:
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- Pricy and complicated; not suitablefor setups with only one camera.
- steep learning curve;
- Requires a dedicated computer.
- Advanced audio inputs partially supported.
Matrox Monarch HD - small, independent hardware encoder that enables streaming and H.264 encoding.
Positives:
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- Simple to set up and utilize.
- supports streaming as well as encoding.
- small flexibe design.
Cons:
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- Limited input methods.
- Not appropriate for large-scale video production.
- The video quality not for professional setup.
AverMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus - plug-and-play hardware encoder that connects to a gaming console or PC to stream live to sites like Twitch and YouTube.
Positives:
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- Simple to set up and use.
- supports widely used streaming services.
- Easy to carry and for convenience.
Cons:
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- Limited available video inputs.
- Video quality might not be as excellent as with other, more expensive encoders.
- May be incompatible with some video consoles
The Datavideo HEVC-200 - portable hardware encoder that supports H.265/HEVC video compression for high-quality video streaming.
Pros:
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- Lightweight.
- advancedvideo compression is supported.
- broadcast to several platforms.
Cons:
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- Limited input methods.
- Not appropriate for producing high-quality videos.
- The video quality might not be acceptable for transmission by professionals.
Livestream Studio- A hardware encoder that offers a full video production suite for live events and broadcasting to networks like Facebook and YouTube.
Pros:
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- A video suite with many features.
- suitable for streaming and live events.
- broadcast to several platforms.
Cons:
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- ineffective for single-camera setups.
- steep learning curve .
- incompatible with some video production software.
Epiphan Pearl-2 - All-in-one hardware encoder and video production system.
Positives:
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- a flexible and feature-rich platform for producing videos.
- able to broadcast to several platforms.
Cons;
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- ineffective for single-camera setups.
- steep learning curve
- The video quality might not be acceptable.
Examples of hardware streaming equipment in the market:
- Cameras: A key component of live streaming is having a camera to capture and transmit video content. Professional-grade cameras such as the Sony PXW-Z450 and the Panasonic AJ-PX270 offer high-quality video and advanced features such as remote control and multiple inputs.
- Audio recording devices: To ensure high-quality audio, it's important to have a dedicated audio recording device. Examples include the Shure SM7B microphone and the Rode NTG3 shotgun microphone.
- Encoders: Encoders are devices that compress and convert the video and audio signals into a format suitable for transmission over the internet. Examples include the Teradek VidiU Pro and the Matrox Monarch HDX.
- Capture cards: Capture cards are used to input and digitize video and audio signals from analog sources such as camcorders and VCRs. Examples include the Blackmagic Design Intensity Pro 4K and the Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro.
- Video switchers: Video switchers allow you to switch between multiple cameras and other video sources during a live stream. Examples include the Roland VR-1HD and the Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro ISO.
When selecting hardware, it's important to consider factors such as compatibility with your existing setup, video quality, and cost.
Popular hardware brands include:
- Blackmagic Design: A company that offers a range of professional-grade cameras and other video production equipment, including the Blackmagic Web Presenter, which converts an HDMI or SDI video source into a high-quality H.264 video stream that can be used for live streaming.
- Teradek: A company that specializes in video encoding and transmission equipment, including the Teradek VidiU, a compact, battery-powered encoder that can be used for live streaming from anywhere.
- AVerMedia: A company that provides a range of capture devices, including the AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2, a compact, USB-powered capture card that can be used for live streaming from a gaming console or computer.
- Matrox: A company that offers a range of video production equipment, including the Matrox Monarch HD, a compact, easy-to-use encoder that can be used for live streaming from a lecture hall, church, or other venue.
When choosing hardware for live streaming, it's important to consider factors such as compatibility with your existing equipment, ease of use, and cost.
Important factors to consider when choosing a live streaming platform
- Video Hosting: This refers to the platform's capability to store, manage, and serve your live stream content. Ensure the platform you choose has reliable and secure hosting, with a robust infrastructure and adequate bandwidth to deliver high-quality streaming.
- Video Organization and Management: The platform should allow you to easily manage, organize, and categorize your videos for better viewing experience and organization. It should also have the ability to schedule live streams, and set reminders for upcoming events.
- Multistreaming to Several Platforms at Once: You may want to reach a wider audience by live streaming on multiple platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. Consider a platform that supports multistreaming to make it easier to reach more people.
- Uploading and Live Streaming Pre-recorded Videos: If you have pre-recorded videos, you may want to upload and live stream them. Ensure the platform supports this feature and that it is easy to use.
- Secure Live Streaming Features: With the increasing number of cyber attacks, security should be a top priority when choosing a live streaming platform. Look for a platform that offers end-to-end encryption and secure hosting to keep your content and viewers' data safe.
- Monetization Options: If you're looking to monetize your live streams, consider a platform that offers monetization options such as ads, sponsorships, and paid subscriptions.
- Device Compatibility: Ensure the platform you choose is compatible with your device(s) and supports the latest technology. Consider platforms that support a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs.
- Stream Analytics and Monitoring: You want to be able to measure the success of your live streams and understand your audience. Consider a platform that provides analytics and monitoring features, such as viewer count, location, and engagement metrics.
- Adaptive Bitrate Streaming: Adaptive bitrate streaming is a technology that adjusts the quality of the video stream in real-time based on the viewer's internet speed and connection stability. This ensures the viewer gets the best experience possible, regardless of their internet connection.
- RTMP Streaming Support: RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol) is a widely used protocol for live streaming. Consider a platform that supports RTMP streaming, as this will allow you to integrate with other tools, such as encoders and cameras, for a seamless streaming experience.
- Video Editing and Embedding: Some platforms offer video editing and embedding options, allowing you to easily trim and edit your videos and embed them on your website or other platforms.
- Encoding Capabilities: Encoding is the process of compressing and converting your video into a format that can be streamed. Consider a platform that supports a wide range of encoding options and has the ability to process high-quality video.
- Browser-based Live Streaming: Browser-based live streaming eliminates the need for a separate encoder and allows you to live stream directly from your browser. Consider a platform that supports this feature, as it can simplify the streaming process.
- Video Cloud Storage: Consider a platform that offers cloud storage for your videos, making it easy to store and access your content.
- Pricing Plan within your Budget: Finally, consider a platform that offers a pricing plan that fits your budget and meets your needs. Many platforms offer free and paid plans, so be sure to compare the features and costs of each before making a decision.
Live Streaming Platforms: FAQs Answered
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