OBS Studio vs Zoom Webinars: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OBS Studio and Zoom Webinars 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.
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:
- 0
- • 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
Zoom Webinars
Scale video events to thousands with built-in engagement and integrations
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need webinar features specifically
- • Webinar platform supporting up to 10,000 attendees with Facebook, YouTube, and custom live streaming
- • Features include Q&A, polls, practice sessions, and HD video with captions in 30+ languages
| At a Glance |  OBS Studio |  Zoom Webinars |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Screen Recording | Webinar |
Rating | - | - |
| Feature | OBS Studio | Zoom Webinars |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Screen RecordingLive Streaming | WebinarVideo & Media |
How OBS Studio and Zoom Webinars Compare
OBS Studio
Record and stream video with powerful, free, open-source software
Free
Zoom Webinars
Scale video events to thousands with built-in engagement and integrations
Paid
OBS Studio is a screen recording tool. Zoom Webinars is in webinar.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OBS Studio is free. Zoom Webinars is paid.
Go with: OBS Studio
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
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?
OBS Studio is free. Zoom Webinars is paid. Go with OBS Studio if free matters most.
What's your use case?
OBS Studio is a screen recording tool. Zoom Webinars is in webinar. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
OBS Studio
- 0
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Zoom Webinars
- Better fit for webinar
The Bottom Line
OBS Studio is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OBS Studio or Zoom Webinars better?
OBS Studio is rated in our evaluation. OBS Studio is free and Zoom Webinars is paid.
What are OBS Studio and Zoom Webinars used for?
OBS Studio: Record and stream video with powerful, free, open-source software. Zoom Webinars: Scale video events to thousands with built-in engagement and integrations.
What does OBS Studio cost vs Zoom Webinars?
OBS Studio is completely free. Zoom Webinars is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.