OBS Studio vs Loom: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between OBS Studio and Loom 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: OBS Studio is our overall pick for screen recording workflows. Pick Loom 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:
OBS Studio
Record and stream video with powerful, free, open-source software
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • OBS Studio is free software for video recording and live streaming
- • It captures screens, webcams, and audio for broadcasts and recordings
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
Best for you if:
- • Async video messaging for teams
- • Screen and camera recording
| At a Glance |  OBS Studio |  Loom |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Screen Recording | Screen Recording |
Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 |
Choose OBS Studio or Loom?
Choose OBS Studio if
Record and stream video with powerful, free, open-source software
- Completely free
- Powerful features
- Huge community
- You want a fully free tool (Loom requires payment)
Choose Loom if
Record screen and camera for async video messages
- Faster than writing long emails
- AI transcriptions in 50+ languages
- Easy screen and camera recording
| Feature | OBS Studio | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.7/5 1,206 reviews | ★4.7/5 5,060 reviews |
| Categories | Screen RecordingLive Streaming | Screen RecordingCommunication |
In-Depth Analysis
OBS Studio
Record and stream video with powerful, free, open-source software
Strengths
- +Completely free
- +Powerful features
- +Huge community
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Can be resource heavy
Key features
Loom
Record screen and camera for async video messages
Strengths
- +Faster than writing long emails
- +AI transcriptions in 50+ languages
- +Easy screen and camera recording
Weaknesses
- -Video quality limited on free tier
- -Storage limits for free users
Key features
Pricing: OBS Studio vs Loom
| Plan | OBS Studio | Loom |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free Starter |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $15 Business |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $20 Business + AI |
| Tier 4 | N/A | Custom Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on OBS Studio pricing and Loom pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OBS Studio is free. Loom is freemium.
Go with: OBS Studio
Want the highest-rated option?
OBS Studio: 4.7/5 (1,206 reviews). Loom: 4.7/5 (5,060 reviews).
Go with: OBS Studio
Value user reviews?
OBS Studio: 1,206 reviews (4.7/5). Loom: 5,060 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: Loom
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OBS Studio is free. Loom is freemium. Go with OBS Studio if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are screen recording tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Both are rated 4.7/5.
Key Takeaways
OBS Studio
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Loom
- Larger review base (5,060 reviews)
The Bottom Line
OBS Studio is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OBS Studio or Loom better?
OBS Studio is rated in our evaluation. OBS Studio is free and Loom is freemium.
What are OBS Studio and Loom used for?
OBS Studio: Record and stream video with powerful, free, open-source software. Loom: Record screen and camera for async video messages.
What does OBS Studio cost vs Loom?
OBS Studio is completely free. Loom is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.