Lightstream vs Riverside.fm: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Lightstream and Riverside.fm 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.
Riverside.fm
Record podcasts and videos remotely
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need video editing features specifically
- • Remote recording studio
- • 4K local recording
| At a Glance |  Lightstream |  Riverside.fm |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Live Streaming | Video Editing |
Rating | —/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Lightstream | Riverside.fm |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 80 |
| Categories | Live StreamingStreaming for Gamers | Video EditingLive Streaming |
How Lightstream and Riverside.fm Compare
Lightstream
Cloud-powered live streaming studio for creators to produce high-quality broadcasts.
Free tier available
Riverside.fm
Record podcasts and videos remotely
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Lightstream is a live streaming tool. Riverside.fm is in video editing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Lightstream
Want the highest-rated option?
Riverside.fm scores 86/100. Lightstream is unrated.
Go with: Riverside.fm
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Riverside.fm
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Lightstream is a live streaming tool. Riverside.fm is in video editing. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Riverside.fm
- Higher score: 86/100 vs unrated
- More community upvotes (80)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Lightstream
- Better fit for live streaming
The Bottom Line
Riverside.fm (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lightstream or Riverside.fm better?
Riverside.fm scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Lightstream and Riverside.fm used for?
Lightstream: Cloud-powered live streaming studio for creators to produce high-quality broadcasts.. Riverside.fm: Record podcasts and videos remotely.
What does Lightstream cost vs Riverside.fm?
Lightstream is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Riverside.fm is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.