StreamElements vs OBS Studio: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between StreamElements and OBS Studio 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:
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.
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
| At a Glance |  StreamElements |  OBS Studio |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Live Streaming | Screen Recording |
Rating | —/100 | 91/100 |
| Feature | StreamElements | OBS Studio |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 91 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Live StreamingStreaming for Gamers | Screen RecordingVideo Editing |
How StreamElements and OBS Studio Compare
StreamElements
The ultimate all-in-one platform for live streamers to manage and grow their channels.
Free tier available
OBS Studio
Free streaming & recording
Free · 91/100 score
StreamElements is a live streaming tool. OBS Studio is in screen recording.
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
What's your budget?
StreamElements is freemium. OBS Studio is free. Go with OBS Studio if free matters most.
What's your use case?
StreamElements is a live streaming tool. OBS Studio is in screen recording. Pick the category that matches your needs.
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 StreamElements or OBS Studio better?
OBS Studio scores 91/100 in our evaluation. StreamElements is freemium and OBS Studio is free.
What are StreamElements and OBS Studio used for?
StreamElements: The ultimate all-in-one platform for live streamers to manage and grow their channels.. OBS Studio: Free streaming & recording.
What does StreamElements cost vs OBS Studio?
StreamElements is freemium (free tier + paid plans). OBS Studio is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.