Table of contents:
Key takeaways
- When comparing live streaming apps look for high resolution, reliability, user-friendliness, multi-streaming, and strong audience interaction tools.
- The best social media live streaming apps include YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.
- The best live streaming apps for gaming include Twitch and Streamlabs.
- The best third-party live streaming services include Riverside and OBS.
Looking to live stream on the go and not sure what app is best?
Your choice of software can make all the difference between a high-quality live and a grainy one.
Here we’ll cover the best live streaming apps out there and how to choose the right one for you. Let’s go!
Table of contents
Key features to look for in live streaming apps
Best live streaming apps for iOS & Android
Best social media live streaming apps
Best live streaming apps for gaming
Best third-party live streaming apps for desktop (Mac & Windows)
What are live streaming apps?
Live streaming apps are platforms that allow you to broadcast video content in real-time over the internet. This allows for spontaneous interaction from viewers and provides them with an unedited and immediate connection with you or your brand.
For example, think of how creators like Marques Brownlee use YouTube for live streaming. Other live-streaming platforms include Twitter, Instagram, and Twitch.
You have various types of live-streaming platforms. For example, social media streaming platforms allow you to stream directly to your audience. Alternatively, third-party streaming software usually lets you stream to multiple social media platforms at once. You’ll also find streaming platforms dedicated to gaming.
Key features to look for in live streaming apps
Resolution
Clear, crisp video ensures your audience sees every detail, whether you're showcasing a product, conducting a tutorial, or streaming a live event.
Apps supporting at least 1080p HD, and even 4K, allow your content to shine, making viewers feel like they're right there with you.
Reliability
Look for reliable apps with robust infrastructure to handle high traffic and reduce downtime. Features like adaptive bitrate streaming can adjust video quality in real-time to match your viewers’ internet speeds. This ensures a seamless experience without annoying interruptions.
Ease of use
Opt for apps that offer a user-friendly experience with straightforward navigation and simple setup processes (think: one-click streaming and integrated tutorials). This way, you can focus more on your content and less on troubleshooting technical issues.
Multi-streaming capabilities
While you can stream directly on platforms like YouTube, Facebook and Twitch, you may want more flexibility.
In this case choose a live streaming app that offers multi-streaming capabilities. This enables you to broadcast simultaneously to multiple top live streaming platforms. This feature saves you time and effort while expanding your audience, ensuring your message reaches every channel your target audience uses.
Audience interaction tools
Choose apps that offer robust interaction tools such as:
- Real-time chat
- polls
- Q&A sessions
- reaction buttons,
- and live call ins.
These features help you connect with your audience in real-time, making your streams more dynamic and enjoyable.
Best live streaming apps for iOS & Android
Looking to take your live streaming on the go? Use these iOS and Android mobile apps to broadcast from anywhere:
Best social media live streaming apps
YouTube Live
Price: Free
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Best for: Broad audience reach
YouTube Live is a fantastic mobile streaming solution for content creators. Whether you're vlogging or hosting live events, you'll have various tools to engage with a broad audience effectively.
YouTube Live’s extensive reach and integration with Google’s ecosystem give it a solid competitive edge. With features like chat moderation tools, detailed viewer analytics, and real-time interaction through live polls and Q&A sessions, it also caters to diverse creators.
Plus, viewers can pause and rewind during broadcasts using the DVR functionality, further enhancing their viewing experience.
Key features
- Quality audio and video: Stream at up to 1080p video and 48 kHz audio.
- Cross-channel live redirects: Direct viewers from your live stream to live streams on other channels.
- Google integration: Syncs with other Google services.
- Live stream clips: Create short snippets from your live streams and post as standalone YouTube videos.
- Digital Video Recording (DVR): Viewers can pause, rewind and continue watching your video streaming.
- Monetization: Monetize your live streams through ads, Super Chat and Stickers, and channel memberships.
Advantages
- Extensive audience reach
- Versatile for different content types
- Robust live analytics
Limitations
- Requires 1,000 subscribers to stream from mobile
- Ads may interrupt the viewing experience
Instagram Live
Price: Free
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Best for: Personal branding and influencer marketing
If you're an influencer or brand looking to connect on a more personal level with your audience, you'll like Instagram Live. This app allows real-time interaction through comments and reactions, ensuring every stream is highly engaging.
Instagram Live integrates seamlessly with Instagram Stories and IGTV, making it easy to repurpose content. Its interactive features like Q&A and filters enhance viewer engagement.
Key features
- Solid audio and video quality: Stream at up to 720p video and 48 kHz audio.
- Content repurposing: Save and share live videos to Stories and IGTV.
- Live guests: Invite other Instagram users to join your live stream.
- Filters and effects: Enhance your live stream with filters and visual effects.
Advantages
- High engagement with followers
- Interactive features like Q&A and filters
- E-commerce integration that lets you promote and sell products
Limitations
- Limited to the Instagram ecosystem
- Shorter streaming durations compared to other platforms
TikTok Live
Price: Free
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Best for: Connecting with the younger audience
TikTok Live lets you engage with your audience in real-time, making it perfect for creators looking to capitalize on viral trends. It’s particularly effective when connecting with a younger demographic, as about 40% of its audience is under 35.
TikTok’s algorithm promotes live streams, so you're more likely to gain visibility and attract more viewers. Plus, interactive features like gifting and Q&A enhance audience interaction and make streams more dynamic.
Key features
- Solid audio and video quality: Stream at up to 720p video and 48 kHz audio.
- Audience interaction: Boost audience engagement with Q&A features, filters and effects.
- Analytics: Access real-time data on viewer engagement and performance metrics.
- Moderation tools: Manage comments and interactions to maintain a positive environment.
- Gifting: Viewers can send virtual gifts, which you can convert to monetary rewards.
Advantages
- Higher visibility through TikTok’s algorithm
- Engaging features like gifting
- Strong connection with younger audiences
Limitations
- Limited to short-form content
- Not suitable for long-duration streams
Facebook Live
Price: Free
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Best for: Business pages and groups
For businesses and individuals looking to engage with their community, Facebook Live is a top choice. It offers interactive features and integrates smoothly with Facebook Pages and Groups. Detailed analytics help optimize your engagement strategies.
Facebook Live’s seamless integration with the Facebook ecosystem makes it easy to reach and engage with your audience. You can interact with viewers in real-time through comments, reactions, and live polls, making your streams more dynamic and engaging.
Key features
- Solid audio and video quality: Stream at up to 720p video and 44.1 kHz audio.
- Page and group integration: Stream directly to your followers.
- Engagement tools: Use polls, comments, and reactions to engage viewers.
- Monetization options: Earn revenue through ads and fan support features.
- Live crossposting: Share your live stream across multiple pages.
Advantages
- Interactive tools for engagement
- Wide audience reach
Limitations
- Requires a Facebook account
- Ads may disrupt the viewing experience
Best live streaming apps for gaming
Twitch
Price: Free
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Best for: Building and monetizing community engagement
Twitch lets you broadcast your streams and gameplay, interact with viewers via chat, and build a community around your content.
You can access Twitch online. Or, you can download their app on your mobile phone, consoles and even TV streaming devices. The apps are similar in features to the site.
Twitch’s strong community focus and robust features make it ideal for any streamer looking to earn money. The app’s interactive chat and community tools help you engage with your audience effectively. Plus, you can also monetize your engagement through ads, channel subscriptions, and bits for cheering (1 cent per Bit).
The mobile app’s fallback is that most reviews are not pleased with the new layout which is similar to TikTok’s feed.
Key features
- Quality audio and video: Stream at up to 720p video and 48 kHz audio.
- Interactive chat: Engage with your audience in real-time.
- Console integration: Stream directly from gaming consoles.
- Affiliate program: Streamers can earn revenue through subscriptions, bits, and donations.
Advantages
- Strong community focus
- Seamless integration with gaming consoles
- Creator Camp offers helpful resources
Limitations
- Heavily geared towards gaming
- Limited customization options compared to desktop
You can learn more in our guide on how to stream on Twitch.
Streamlabs
Price: Free
Compatibility: iOS and Android
Best for: Gamers and professional streamers
Streamlabs' mobile app is tailored for gamers and professional streamers. As one of the best streaming software for online creators, it supports multistreaming, extensive customization, and includes tools like real-time alerts, overlays, donation management, and integrated chat.
Streamlabs offers a user-friendly interface with professional-grade features. It comes with all the bells and whistles - expect customizable themes, widgets, and advanced features like screen capture and live editing. Streamlabs also provides robust analytics so you can see how your streams are performing.
Compared to the desktop version, the mobile app has a simplified user interface designed for touchscreens. For instance, it's more streamlined, focusing on ease of use and quick access to essential streaming features.
Streaming support across multiple platforms, including Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook ensures you can reach your audience no matter where they are.
Key Features
- High-quality video and audio: Stream up to 1080p video and 48 kHz audio.
- Customizable widgets: Enhance your stream with real-time alerts and overlays.
- Multi-platform integration: Stream to Twitch, YouTube, and more.
- Collab Cam: Add another screen or guest to your live stream.
Advantages
- User-friendly interface
- Integration with major streaming platforms
- Real-time alerts and overlays
Limitations
- Some advanced features require in-app purchases
- Can be resource-intensive on older devices
Best third-party live streaming apps for desktop (Mac & Windows)
Streaming from your desktop can unlock endless opportunities, whether you’re a content creator, educator, or business professional.
Here are the top live streaming apps available for both Mac and Windows devices:
Riverside
Price: Free, with paid plans starting from $15/month
Compatibility: Browser-based, available on macOS and Windows
Best for: Highest quality live streams
Perfect for podcasters and professional content creators, Riverside delivers studio-quality live streams. You can record your streams in up to 4K video and 48 kHz WAV audio resolution.
As a live streamer, you can reach more viewers by streaming to multiple platforms simultaneously. You can even host up to 1,000 audience members directly on Riverside.
To keep your audience engaged, talk to them in the omnichat or invite them for a live call-in. We also suggest integrating live sound or visual effects with our live media board.
For a professional touch, brand you live studio with lower thirds, backgrounds and your own logo.
Everything records locally onto your device, independent of your internet connection. This means you’ll get high-resolution recordings that you can repurpose with our built-in editing tools.
Key features
- High-quality audio and video: Record in up to 4K video and 48 kHz/16-bit audio.
- Local recording: Records all participants locally to ensure top-notch quality regardless of internet speed.
- Multistreaming: Broadcast to YouTube, Facebook or any custom RTMP simultaneously.
- Omnichat: Manage and reply to comments from multiple platforms in one place.
- Live calls or chats: Interact with viewers in real-time via calls and chats right through the platform.
- Live editing with sound effects: Keeps your live stream dynamic and exciting with a live media board.
- Screen sharing: Share and record your screen for live gaming, podcast streaming, tutorials, and presentations.
- Seamless editor: Repurpose your live stream in minutes with automated editing tools for captions, shareable clips, customization and trimming your recording.
- AI-transcription and show notes: Download a transcript or show notes with titles, chapters and key takeaways for easy descriptions.
Advantages
- Easy-to-use platform
- Lots of tools to streamline your session
- Low cost or free
Limitations
- Watermark and resolution limits on free plan
Note that some of the features are only available on the paid plans.
Streamlabs Talk Studio (formerly Melon)
Price: Free plan available. Paid plans start at $9/month
Compatibility: Browser based, available on maOS and Windows
Best for: Simple, beginner-friendly setup
Streamlabs Talk Studio is perfect for beginners thanks to its user-friendly design.
It seamlessly integrates with major social media platforms. You can invite guests to join streams and enable interactive features like live comments and reactions.
The streaming setup is straightforward. Simply pick a preset layout and go live with just a few clicks. Real-time alerts and notifications keep you connected with your audience. Additionally, inviting guests or co-hosts is a breeze—just one click, and they’re in.
A built-in live chat keeps the conversation flowing, while the customizable branding options let you add a professional touch. And since everything runs on the cloud, your streaming experience will be smooth and hassle-free.
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Key features
- Quality audio and video: Stream at up to 1080p video and 48 kHz audio.
- User-friendly design: Simple and intuitive setup and intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
- Local recording: Records your live streams in high quality regardless of internet connection.
- Multistreaming: Broadcasts to several social platforms simultaneously.
- Guest collaboration: Easily invite co-hosts and guests via a link.
- Customizable branding: Personalize overlays and logos, add banners, and customize colors.
- Well-rounded support: Provides tool tips and guidance as needed.
Advantages
- User-friendly interface
- Easy social media integration
- Collaboration features for guests
Limitations
- Limited customization options
- Some important features are locked behind premium plans
- Less flexible compared to other live streaming apps
OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software)
Price: Free
Compatibility: macOS, Windows, and Linux
Best for: Customization capabilities
OBS Studio’s flexibility and power come from its open-source nature, providing endless customization possibilities. It supports a wide range of plugins and settings, allowing you to tailor your streaming setup to your exact needs.
OBS is highly reliable and supports various streaming platforms and recording options, making it ideal for users who need more control over their streams. It integrates with major platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook, offering extensive customization options.
However, OBS can be overwhelming for beginners and lacks official support, relying on community resources for troubleshooting.
Key features
- High-quality audio: Stream at up to 1080p video and 48 kHz audio.
- Extensive customization: Numerous settings and plugins allow for feature expansion.
- Powerful integrations: Supports multiple streaming and recording options.
- Multistreaming: Broadcasts to several social platforms simultaneously.
Advantages
- Free and open-source
- Customizable with numerous user-created plugins
- Supports various streaming platforms
- Comprehensive community support
Limitations
- Basic UI
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Requires more technical knowledge for setup
How to choose the right live streaming app for your needs
Next, let's understand how to identify the best live streaming app for you.
Assess your live streaming goals
First, clarify what you aim to achieve with your live streams. Are you a business engaging with customers, an educator delivering lessons, a gamer showcasing gameplay, or a social streamer connecting with friends? Each scenario has different needs.
Evaluate features and usability
Once you know your goals, evaluate the app features. Look for high-resolution streaming, reliability, ease of use, multi-streaming, and audience interaction tools. Test each app by setting up a stream, navigating its interface, and using its features to ensure it meets your needs.
Consider budget and pricing plans
Compare pricing plans, noting the features in free vs. premium versions. Free plans can be great when you're just starting out, but as you become more advanced, you may appreciate the extra capabilities that paid plans offer.
Cross-check compatibility
Make sure the app is compatible with your devices and integrates well with other platforms. Check for support on iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows. Also check for integration with YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, or custom RTMP servers, which allow for streaming to any platform.
Final thoughts
The best live-streaming app depends on your unique needs and goals.
Experimentation will help you find the right balance of features, usability, and compatibility. So, don’t hesitate to explore different apps to see which fits your needs best.
FAQs about live streaming apps
Why use an app to go live?
Using a live streaming app lets you connect with your audience in real-time and engage with viewers through interactive features like comments and reactions. Additionally, you can expand your reach across multiple platforms.
How do you stream live for free?
To stream live for free, choose a platform that offers free streaming services like YouTube. You can also choose a streaming software with a free plan like Riverside.fm. Download the app, create an account, and follow the setup instructions to start streaming.
How do you use streaming software?
First, download and install your chosen program (like Riverside.fm). Connect your streaming account (like Twitch or YouTube) and configure your video and audio settings.
Next, set up your scenes and sources, including your webcam, game capture, and overlays.
Finally, test your setup to ensure everything works smoothly, then start your live stream by hitting the broadcast button.
What are the top live streaming platforms for gamers?
The top live streaming platforms for gamers are Twitch, and YouTube. These platforms offer quality streaming, interactive chat and monetization options, and integration with gaming consoles and PCs.
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