Streamlabs vs OBS Studio: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Streamlabs 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 22, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
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.
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
- • OBS Studio is free software for video recording and live streaming
- • It captures screens, webcams, and audio for broadcasts and recordings
| At a Glance |  Streamlabs |  OBS Studio |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Screen Recording | Screen Recording |
Rating | —/100 | 91/100 |
| Feature | Streamlabs | 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 | Screen RecordingVideo Editing | Screen RecordingVideo Editing |
How Streamlabs and OBS Studio Compare
Streamlabs
All-in-one live streaming and content creation software for creators.
Free tier available
OBS Studio
Free streaming & recording
Free · 91/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OBS Studio is free. Streamlabs is freemium.
Go with: OBS Studio
Want the highest-rated option?
OBS Studio scores 91/100. Streamlabs 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?
Streamlabs is freemium. OBS Studio is free. 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?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
OBS Studio
- Higher score: 91/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Streamlabs
The Bottom Line
OBS Studio (91/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Streamlabs or OBS Studio better?
OBS Studio scores 91/100 in our evaluation. Streamlabs is freemium and OBS Studio is free.
What are Streamlabs and OBS Studio used for?
Streamlabs: All-in-one live streaming and content creation software for creators.. OBS Studio: Free streaming & recording.
What does Streamlabs cost vs OBS Studio?
Streamlabs is freemium (free tier + paid plans). OBS Studio is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.