Lightstream vs OBS Studio: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Lightstream and OBS Studio comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Lightstream
Cloud-powered live streaming studio for creators to produce high-quality broadcasts.
Best for you if:
- • You need live streaming features specifically
- • Cloud-based live streaming studio.
- • Browser-based, no downloads required.
OBS Studio
Free streaming & recording
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.1/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • You need screen recording features specifically
- • OBS Studio is free software for video recording and live streaming
- • It captures screens, webcams, and audio for broadcasts and recordings
| At a Glance |  Lightstream |  OBS Studio |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Live Streaming | Screen Recording |
Rating | —/100 | 91/100 |
| Feature | Lightstream | OBS Studio |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 91 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Live StreamingStreaming for Gamers | Screen RecordingVideo Editing |
How Lightstream and OBS Studio Compare
Lightstream
Cloud-powered live streaming studio for creators to produce high-quality broadcasts.
Free tier available
OBS Studio
Free streaming & recording
Free · 91/100 score
Lightstream is a live streaming tool. OBS Studio is in screen recording.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OBS Studio is free. Lightstream is freemium.
Go with: OBS Studio
Want the highest-rated option?
OBS Studio scores 91/100. Lightstream is unrated.
Go with: OBS Studio
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: OBS Studio
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Lightstream is freemium. OBS Studio is free. Go with OBS Studio if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Lightstream is a live streaming tool. OBS Studio is in screen recording. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
OBS Studio
- Higher score: 91/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Lightstream
- Better fit for live streaming
The Bottom Line
OBS Studio (91/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lightstream or OBS Studio better?
OBS Studio scores 91/100 in our evaluation. Lightstream is freemium and OBS Studio is free.
What are Lightstream and OBS Studio used for?
Lightstream: Cloud-powered live streaming studio for creators to produce high-quality broadcasts.. OBS Studio: Free streaming & recording.
What does Lightstream cost vs OBS Studio?
Lightstream is freemium (free tier + paid plans). OBS Studio is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.