Lightstream vs Streamlabs: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Lightstream and Streamlabs 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.
Bottom line: Lightstream is our overall pick for live streaming workflows. Pick Streamlabs if you need a free tier to start with.
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:
- • Cloud-based live streaming studio.
- • Browser-based, no downloads required.
Streamlabs
All-in-one live streaming and content creation software for creators.
Best for you if:
- • All-in-one software for live streaming and content creation.
- • Offers customizable overlays, alerts, and monetization tools.
| At a Glance |  Lightstream |  Streamlabs |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $10/month/moBasic | $10/mo/moBasic |
Best For | Live Streaming | Live Streaming |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Lightstream or Streamlabs?
Choose Lightstream if
Cloud-powered live streaming studio for creators to produce high-quality broadcasts.
- Easy to use for beginners
- No powerful local PC required for streaming
- Professional-looking streams with custom overlays
Choose Streamlabs if
All-in-one live streaming and content creation software for creators.
- Comprehensive feature set for live streaming and content creation
- User-friendly interface suitable for beginners
- Extensive customization options for stream aesthetics
| Feature | Lightstream | Streamlabs |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 94 reviews | ★4.3/5 53 reviews |
| Categories | Live StreamingVideo & Media | Live StreamingVideo & Media |
In-Depth Analysis
Lightstream
Cloud-powered live streaming studio for creators to produce high-quality broadcasts.
Strengths
- +Easy to use for beginners
- +No powerful local PC required for streaming
- +Professional-looking streams with custom overlays
- +Supports console streaming directly
- +Cloud processing reduces strain on local resources
Weaknesses
- -Requires an internet connection
- -Subscription-based service
- -May have limitations compared to dedicated desktop software for advanced users
Key features
Streamlabs
All-in-one live streaming and content creation software for creators.
Strengths
- +Comprehensive feature set for live streaming and content creation
- +User-friendly interface suitable for beginners
- +Extensive customization options for stream aesthetics
- +Integrated monetization tools simplify creator income
- +Cross-platform compatibility for streaming and mobile use
Weaknesses
- -Can be resource-intensive on some systems
- -Advanced features may require a paid subscription
- -Some users report occasional bugs or performance issues
Key features
Pricing: Lightstream vs Streamlabs
| Plan | Lightstream | Streamlabs |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $10/month Basic | $10/mo Basic |
| Tier 3 | $25/month Pro | $25/mo Pro |
| Tier 4 | N/A | Contact us Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Lightstream pricing and Streamlabs pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Lightstream
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Lightstream
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Lightstream
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?
Both are live streaming tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Lightstream
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.3/5
- Larger review base (94 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Streamlabs
- Choose if you want all-in-one live streaming and content creation software for creators
The Bottom Line
Lightstream is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lightstream or Streamlabs better?
Lightstream is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Lightstream and Streamlabs used for?
Lightstream: Cloud-powered live streaming studio for creators to produce high-quality broadcasts.. Streamlabs: All-in-one live streaming and content creation software for creators..
What does Lightstream cost vs Streamlabs?
Lightstream is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Streamlabs is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.