OBS Studio is free, open-source software for video recording and live streaming. Powerful mixing handles multiple sources including cameras, displays, and media. Scenes and transitions create professional broadcasts. Filters add visual and audio processing in real-time. Plugins extend functionality endlessly. The streaming software that powers most streamers on Twitch, YouTube, and beyond - completely free.

Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux

Louis Corneloup Updated May 26, 2026 · how we evaluate Source obsproject.com ↗

Ratings Across the Web

4.7 (1,212 reviews)

OBS Studio holds an aggregate rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 1,212 reviews across G2 and Capterra, last checked September 17, 2026.

G2 137 reviews

4.6/5

Capterra 1,075 reviews

4.7/5

Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more

Key Features

Live streaming
Recording
Scene composition
Filters
Plugins
Open source

Pricing Plans

Pricing checked Oct 7, 2026

OBS Studio plans and prices, checked October 2026
Plan	Price	Details
Free	$0	100% free and open source Video recording Live streaming +3 more Show less Windows, Mac, Linux No watermarks Plugin support

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Is OBS Studio worth the price?

Great value

OBS Studio offers an incredibly generous pricing model as it is 100% free and open-source.

This makes it an exceptional value, especially compared to paid alternatives. It's best for anyone needing robust streaming and recording capabilities without a budget.

Full OBS Studio pricing: every plan, hidden costs and alternatives

Reviews

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4.7/5

Across 1,212 verified user reviews on Capterra, G2

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Best OBS Studio Alternatives

Top alternatives based on features, pricing, and user needs.

View full list →

Loom Freemium

Record screen and camera for async video messages

4.7

Riverside.fm Freemium

Record podcasts and videos remotely

3.7

Clipchamp Freemium

Browser-based video editor by Microsoft

3.5

StreamYard Freemium

Live streaming studio in your browser

4.7

Demio Paid

Hassle-free webinar software for marketers to drive engagement, conversions, and revenue.

4.7

RingCentral Events Paid

Virtual, hybrid and onsite event platform (formerly Hopin)

4.8

Zoom Webinars Paid

Scale video events to thousands with built-in engagement and integrations

2.8

Shotcut Free

Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.

4.0

See all screen recording tools →

Still deciding?

Most buyers shortlist 2 or 3 tools before committing. Pull a side-by-side comparison or browse the full alternatives shortlist below.

All OBS Studio alternatives 8+ tools ranked, pricing + verdict per pick OBS Studio vs Loom Head-to-head: features, pricing, who wins OBS Studio vs Riverside.fm Head-to-head: features, pricing, who wins OBS Studio vs Clipchamp Head-to-head: features, pricing, who wins

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OBS Studio FAQ

How does OBS Studio facilitate professional live broadcasts?

OBS Studio enables professional broadcasts through powerful mixing capabilities that handle multiple sources like cameras and displays. Users can create custom scenes and transitions, and apply real-time visual and audio filters to enhance their streams.

What kind of user is best suited for OBS Studio?

OBS Studio is ideal for users who need robust video recording and live streaming capabilities and are willing to invest time in learning its features. Its powerful tools and extensibility make it suitable for content creators, gamers, and educators.

How is OBS Studio priced?

OBS Studio is completely free to use, offering all its powerful features without any paid plans or subscription requirements. It is open-source software, making it accessible to everyone.

Can OBS Studio integrate with other tools to extend its functionality?

Yes, OBS Studio's functionality can be extended endlessly through the use of plugins. This allows users to customize and enhance their recording and streaming setup beyond the core features.

How does OBS Studio compare to StreamYard for live streaming?

OBS Studio offers powerful, free, open-source software for live streaming with extensive customization through scenes, transitions, and filters. Unlike StreamYard, which typically offers a more streamlined, browser-based experience, OBS Studio provides deep control over every aspect of the broadcast from a desktop application.

What are the main trade-offs when choosing OBS Studio?

The main trade-offs when choosing OBS Studio include a notable learning curve due to its extensive features and customization options. Additionally, it can be resource-heavy, potentially requiring a more capable computer for optimal performance during complex streams or recordings.

Source: obsproject.com

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