OBS Studio vs StreamYard
Updated June 2026 · A structured head-to-head comparison.
Free, open-source recording and streaming.
Live streaming and recording from your browser.
The verdict
Both OBS Studio and StreamYard are credible screen recording tools, and the right pick comes down to your priorities.
Choose OBS Studio if you want broader platform coverage. Free, open-source recording and streaming.
StreamYard — Live streaming and recording from your browser.
OBS Studio vs StreamYard: side by side
| Dimension | OBS Studio | StreamYard |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | Free | Free – $25/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Open source | Freemium |
| Best for | Streamers, Creators | Creators, Marketers |
| Platforms | Windows, Mac, LinuxWinner | Web |
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 |
OBS Studio key facts
- Vendor
- OBS Project
- Pricing
- Open source — Free
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Best for
- Streamers, Creators
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2012
- Headquarters
- Open source
StreamYard key facts
- Vendor
- StreamYard
- Pricing
- Freemium — Free – $25/mo
- Free tier
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web
- Best for
- Creators, Marketers
- Editor rating
- 4.7 / 5
- Founded
- 2018
- Headquarters
- Remote
Frequently asked questions
Is OBS Studio better than StreamYard?
Neither is universally better — OBS Studio edges ahead on overall rating, but the best choice depends on price, platforms, and your use case. See the side-by-side table above.
Is OBS Studio or StreamYard cheaper?
OBS Studio is the more affordable of the two to get started, at free. OBS Studio starts at free; StreamYard starts at free – $25/mo.
Can OBS Studio replace StreamYard?
Yes for most teams — both are screen recording tools with heavily overlapping features. The main trade-offs are pricing and platform support, covered in the comparison above.