Streaming is one of the most popular tools for maintaining interest in the content you create. Broadcasting in real time allows you to increase the popularity of the channel-page, conduct an advertising campaign, announce an event, leave a review about an online game, and much more. You don't need complicated equipment and professional video studio for streaming. It is enough to have a phone or PC with a good camera, microphone, and a stable Internet connection. The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best programs for streaming for 2020.
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7 most popular apps for streaming from a smartphone
With the growing popularity of streaming, the number of applications for online broadcasting is growing. You can choose a simple option for beginners or a feature-rich program that turns your mobile into a mini-studio for live broadcast. Introducing 7 of the most popular smartphone streaming apps.
Live on YouTube
The seventh line is taken by the application for online video broadcasts through the YouTube channel. Live on YouTube is considered a good option for aspiring streamers. Differs in simplicity of setup and starts transmission in real time in one click. Android 4.4 or higher is required to work properly. The app is available on Google Play. The basic version is free.
Advantages:
- the interface is very simple and intuitive;
- no time limits;
- HD support - 1080p / 720p;
- the ability to switch from vertical to horizontal shooting mode during broadcast;
- dedicated button for autofocus;
- you can work with video effects.
Disadvantages:
- does not work adequately on all devices;
- not all functions are described in Russian.
Mobizen Live Stream
The sixth place is taken by the application for Android 5.0+. The program has a simple, user-friendly interface and a fairly high quality video broadcast. Works mainly with YouTube channels. Popular with mobile game streamers. The basic version is free.
Advantages:
- quick start;
- simple interface;
- you can connect a front camera with selective privacy settings;
- chat with viewers is available;
- the ability to connect donations.
Disadvantages:
- only works with Android 5.0+;
- there are interruptions in the quality of video transmission
Streaming in VK
The fifth line is occupied by the application of the popular social network VKontakte. To work, you only need a personal page. There are no restrictions on the number of subscribers, popularity and attendance. Shooting is available both from a phone and from a stationary computer. Live broadcasts can be added to a page, group, sent in a private message, shared on a wall, or transferred to an external site. The app is free.
Advantages:
- works from both a phone and a PC;
- you can switch video from the screen to an external camera;
- chat is available for direct communication with viewers;
- there is no time limit, you can broadcast around the clock;
- there is a function for connecting donations;
- are automatically played in the news feed.
Disadvantages:
- minimum of customizable video effects and parameters.
Bambuser
In fourth place is a program with a consistently good reputation and an average set of functions.A distinctive feature is the ability to work on the basis of various platforms, including iOS, MeeGo, Windows Mobile, Android, Symbian, Bada. The video material for viewing is transferred to the main site of the program or it can be redirected to the personal channel-page by installing the html-code. The basic version is free.
Advantages:
- high level of compatibility;
- video broadcast with a delay of only 3 seconds;
- you can set publicity settings;
- simple interface, going live through the press of one button;
- good picture and sound quality.
Disadvantages:
- Before the broadcast begins, viewers are shown a rather long commercial.
Gusher screen broadcaster
The third place is taken by an application that allows you to quickly start an online broadcast on YouTube or Twitch. It fully works on the Android 5.1.1 and higher platform, for earlier versions you need to get additional superuser rights. The basic version is distributed free of charge.
Advantages:
- wide range of settings;
- user-friendly interface;
- simple process of starting a live broadcast;
- short delay interval.
Disadvantages:
- does not support early Android versions without obtaining ROOT rights;
- sometimes requires additional installation of video codecs on a smartphone.
Stream - Live Video Community
The second place is occupied by a convenient service for Android. The design resembles mobile social networks. Each participant has an avatar and a card with minimal personal information. The basic version is free.
Advantages:
- good level of picture and sound transmission;
- the ability to chat with viewers;
- you can view streams of other participants and receive notifications;
- customizable flash and material saving;
- ease of use;
- according to reviews, there are practically no failures in work.
Disadvantages:
- minimum settings and video effects.
Screen Stream Mirroring
The first place was given to a simple and at the same time multifunctional streaming program from Mobzapp. Suitable for Android 5+. For earlier versions, a dedicated utility is required. Average cost: 400 rubles.
Advantages:
- high quality picture and sound;
- wide range of settings;
- recording;
you can draw on the screen during the broadcast;
compatible with modem mode (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB); - chat with viewers;
- streaming to Twitch, Youtube, (Youtube Gaming), Facebook Live, Ustream, other services or video and media players, Blu Ray players;
- there is a support forum.
Disadvantages:
- sometimes the program crashes, does not capture the microphone.
| Name | System requirements | Service compatibility | Cost (rubles) | Features: |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Live on YouTube | Android 4.4 or higher, pumped channel on YouTube | Youtube | is free | no restrictions on broadcast time; you can work with video effects; the interface is partially Russified. |
| Mobizen Live Stream | Android 5.0+ | Youtube | is free | you can connect a front camera with selective privacy settings; chat with viewers is available; the ability to connect donations. |
| Streaming in VK | page on VK | VK | is free | switching from screen to external camera; chat for direct communication with viewers; you can broadcast around the clock; connection of donations. |
| Bambuster | iOS, MeeGo, Windows Mobile, Android, Symbian, Bada platforms | Bambuster, personal website via code injection | is free | you can set publicity settings. |
| Gusher screen broadcaster | Android 5.1.1 or higher | YouTube, Twitch | is free | simple process of starting a live broadcast; short delay interval. |
| Stream - Live Video Community | Android 4. | internal network, Youtube | is free | the ability to chat with viewers; you can view streams of other participants and receive notifications. |
| Screen Stream Mirroring | Android 5.0+ | Twitch, Youtube, (Youtube Gaming), Facebook Live, Ustream, other services or Blu Ray players | 400 | you can draw on the screen during the broadcast; compatible with modem mode (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB); chat with viewers. |
6 of the most popular PC streaming software
A mobile device allows a streamer to lead an active lifestyle, but for gamers, organizers of various master classes and webinars, streaming using a desktop computer and their mini-studio is more suitable.We present 6 programs for online broadcasting from a PC that have received the most positive reviews.
LightStream
Sixth place is given to a program that provides powerful streaming and does not require downloading to a PC. The work is carried out through the Google Chrome browser. The app is free.
Advantages:
- high quality picture and sound transmission;
- Supports 720p at 30/60 frames per second;
- does not require downloading to a PC;
- you can additionally install an extension to overlay additional layers from the screen;
- adding new viewers in one click;
- active support service.
Disadvantages:
- works only through Google Chrome;
- is very sensitive to fluctuations in the stability and speed of the Internet connection, the download speed must be at least 750 kbps.
Ffsplit
The fifth line is occupied by a program that is well suited for beginners of streaming. FFsplit has a simple interface, few clear functions, and good broadcast quality. Allows you to transmit online broadcasts to popular resources (YouTube, DailyMotion, Twitch, Livestream) or your own server. Free distribution.
Advantages:
- allows you to capture an entire or a specific area of the screen, images from connected web cameras, photos, images from other applications, games;
- resolution settings, FPS;
- interactive preview area;
- saving material in MP4, FLV or MKV format;
- text overlay function.
Disadvantages:
- lengthy installation;
- it is impossible to simultaneously display a picture and conduct a video (there is no window separation);
- basic parameters in English.
OBS Studio
The fourth place is taken by one of the most popular streaming software among gamers - OBS Studio. The choice of players is explained by the ability to configure the priority of the studio relative to other running applications. Due to this function, you can broadcast live in parallel, with little or no impact on the gameplay. OBS Studio works on Windows, Mac, Linux platforms. Compatible with YouTube, Livecoding.tv, Twitch, Dailymotion. Saves files in FLV, MP4, MOV, MKV formats. The basic version is free.
Advantages:
- classic interface;
- split window function;
- during the broadcast, you can add pictures and clips from the screen;
- setting the priority of the studio;
- regular updates in the public domain;
- includes presets for most common resources;
- fast switching between signal sources.
Disadvantages:
- does not support Windows XP;
- newbies are often confused about the interface.
XSplit Broadcaster
The third place is taken by a program that has all the main functions of OBS Studio, but has a simpler control system and the ability to broadcast to several resources at once. Compatible with Facebook, Mixer, Twitch, YouTube. A free version and a paid version with advanced functionality are available. Average cost of an unlimited license: 13,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- user-friendly interface;
- recording in 4k;
- a wide range of video effects;
- the ability to broadcast to several resources at once;
- chat with viewers (in the paid version);
- projector mode;
- preview editor;
- technical support 24/7.
Disadvantages:
- in the free version, the developer's watermark is superimposed on the video; programs;
- partial russification of the interface.
WIRECAST
The second place is given to the program, which is suitable for both beginners and streaming professionals. Allows you to create online broadcasts, webinars, training videos, interviews. Works on Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista. A free trial period of 30 days is available. Average cost of an unlimited license: 32,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- powerful software;
- allows you to use multiple recording sources;
- you can mix frames from videos, pictures, photos, presentation slides;
- function of dividing broadcasts into streams with different bit rates;
- several options for smoothing transitions;
- setting up templates for broadcasting;
- there are utilities for Apple TV, Flash and IPTV set-top boxes.
- Compatible with Bambuser, Brightcove, Justin.tv, Limelight, Livebeats, Livestream, Sermon.net, Showcaster, Streaming Media Hosting, Ustream, YouTube;
- there are lessons on mastering the program;
- the possibility of simultaneous broadcasting to several resources.
Disadvantages:
- many functions do not work in test mode;
- the interface is in English.
vMix
First place is taken by a program that turns a personal computer into a real broadcast studio. Allows you to broadcast in SD, HD and 4K formats. Powered by Windows 7, 8.10. Compatible with Facebook Live, YouTube, Twitch. Free 60-day trial available. Average cost of a license for a basic package: from 5,000 to 90,000 rubles (depending on quality parameters).
Advantages:
- free trial period;
- supports overlay titles, pictures, mini-clips;
- 13 transition effects;
- a set of virtual backgrounds;
- the ability to multi-view with live video effects;
- 3D acceleration package;
- instant replays;
- multi-window modes;
- transfer to third-party software via Skype, Zoom is possible;
- constant updating with the addition of new functions.
Disadvantages:
- complex interface.
| Name | OS requirements | Compatible resources | Features: | The cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LightStream | any with Google Chrome browser | Youtube | does not require downloading to PC. | is free |
| Ffsplit | Windows Vista, 7, 8 | YouTube, DailyMotion, Twitch, Livestream. | allows you to capture an entire or a specific area of the screen, images from connected web cameras, photos, images from other applications, games; text overlay function. | is free |
| OBS Studio | Windows, Mac, Linux | YouTube, Livecoding.tv, Twitch, Dailymotion. | split window function; during the broadcast, you can add pictures and clips from the screen; setting the priority of the studio. | is free |
| XSplit Broadcaster | Windows | Facebook, Mixer, Twitch, YouTube. | the ability to broadcast to several resources at once; chat with viewers (in the paid version); projector mode. | limited free version, license from 13,000 rubles. |
| WIRECAST | Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista | Bambuser, Brightcove, Justin.tv, Limelight, Livebeats, Livestream, Sermon.net, Showcaster, Streaming Media Hosting, Ustream, YouTube | allows you to use multiple recording sources; you can mix frames from videos, pictures, photos, presentation slides; division of broadcasts into streams with different bit rates. | free for 30 days, license 32,000 rubles. |
| vMix | Windows 7, 8,10 | Facebook Live, YouTube, Twitch | supports overlay titles, pictures, mini-clips; a set of virtual backgrounds; the ability to multi-view with live video effects; 3D acceleration package; instant replays; multi-window modes; transfer to third-party software via Skype, Zoom. | free 60 days, license from 5,000 to 90,000 rubles. |
Optional accessories
In order to get a quality stream, additional accessories are often needed. What exactly is required depends on the specifics of the intended shooting. It can be aqua box, shock mount, polychrome lamps and much more. But there is also a basic set of accessories for streaming:
- covers - it is better to purchase waterproof and shockproof models. A good case will protect the device from getting wet when shooting outdoors, the effects of bumps and falls. The latter often happens during broadcasts in a crowd (at concerts, parties, mass celebrations, promotions).
- mounts and tripods - will help solve the problem of "jumping" pictures. Different situations require different types of models. If you are shooting in a car, you can use the steering wheel mounts, while organizing a stationary broadcast, a simple tripod will come in handy. A steadicam can be a good helper when shooting handheld.
- additional battery - broadcasting video to the network - an energy-consuming process, the battery charge is melting before our eyes. Therefore, make sure you have a spare power source when shooting for a long time.
- portable modem with Wi-Fi function - protects in the event of a sudden drop in connection speed.
- A USB microphone or a high-quality headset will provide high quality sound without hum, whistling and extraneous noise.
The main problems of streaming
Not a single streamer is immune from problems and failures. You can't guarantee yourself 100% against failure. Experienced users try to minimize risk with simple steps.5 streaming problems to help newbies.
- some services have restrictions on online broadcasts by the number of views, subscribers, reputation. Before you announce a live broadcast, make sure that your channel page is subject to restrictions or choose another service.
- real-time transmission may cause freeze-up or loss of sound. The reason lies in the low speed of the Internet connection or incorrectly specified settings. Be sure to check the speed and stability of the connection before work, in extreme cases, you can use alternative sources, such as a portable modem with Wi-Fi function. If everything is in order with the Internet, check the settings, it may be better to slightly lower the quality of the video stream resolution, but to achieve stable transmission.
- be sure to do a test broadcast before the main launch, this will help identify possible problems without involving viewers in the process.
- When planning your broadcast, remember the importance of quality voice acting and literacy of comments. It is unlikely that viewers will watch until the end of the video, in which the presenter is silent or stutters at every word. For beginner streamers, it is advisable to have a small cheat sheet with a plan and a description of the key points. Pay attention to diction, parasitic words, and emotional coloring. Small flaws can be easily turned into a showcase.
- another problem is the suddenly dead battery of the device. Online shooting is a power-consuming process. Therefore, keep a power bank ready.
Everyone can become a streamer, you just need a little charm, patience and perseverance. Special programs and applications will help you achieve your goal. The main thing is not to give up after the first setbacks.
If you have experience using the programs listed in the rating or more interesting options, tell us about it in the comments.
