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OBS Studio vs StreamElements: Which Should You Choose in 2026?

Choosing between OBS Studio and StreamElements 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:

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

StreamElements

The ultimate all-in-one platform for live streamers to manage and grow their channels.

Best for you if:

  • • You need live streaming features specifically
  • All-in-one platform for live streamers on Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Gaming.
  • Offers customizable overlays, alerts, chatbots, tipping, and merchandise stores.
At a Glance
OBS StudioOBS Studio
StreamElementsStreamElements
Price
FreeFree + Paid
Best For
Screen RecordingLive Streaming
Rating
91/100/100
FeatureOBS StudioStreamElements
Pricing ModelFreeFreemium
Editorial Score
91
Community RatingNo ratings yetNo ratings yet
Total Reviews00
Community Upvotes
0
0
Categories
Screen RecordingVideo Editing
Live StreamingStreaming for Gamers

How OBS Studio and StreamElements Compare

OBS Studio

Free streaming & recording

Free · 91/100 score

StreamElements

The ultimate all-in-one platform for live streamers to manage and grow their channels.

Free tier available

OBS Studio is a screen recording tool. StreamElements is in live streaming.

Who Should Use What?

On a budget?

OBS Studio is free. StreamElements is freemium.

Go with: OBS Studio

Want the highest-rated option?

OBS Studio scores 91/100. StreamElements is unrated.

Go with: OBS Studio

Value user reviews?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: OBS Studio

3 Questions to Help You Decide

1

What's your budget?

OBS Studio is free. StreamElements is freemium. Go with OBS Studio if free matters most.

2

What's your use case?

OBS Studio is a screen recording tool. StreamElements is in live streaming. Pick the category that matches your needs.

3

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

StreamElements

  • Better fit for live streaming

The Bottom Line

OBS Studio (91/100) is our pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is OBS Studio or StreamElements better?

OBS Studio scores 91/100 in our evaluation. OBS Studio is free and StreamElements is freemium.

What are OBS Studio and StreamElements used for?

OBS Studio: Free streaming & recording. StreamElements: The ultimate all-in-one platform for live streamers to manage and grow their channels..

What does OBS Studio cost vs StreamElements?

OBS Studio is completely free. StreamElements is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

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