Gaming & Streaming Tools

OBS Studio vs StreamElements

Both are gaming & streaming tools. The short answer: choose OBS Studio if you are streaming and recording gameplay for free; choose StreamElements if you are overlays, chatbots and sponsorships for streamers.

Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are not for sale; sponsored placements are always labelled.

OBS Studio logo OBS StudioStreamElements logo StreamElements
Best forStreaming and recording gameplay for freeOverlays, chatbots and sponsorships for streamers
Free planYesYes
PricingSee providerSee provider
Built for IndiaGlobalGlobal
CategoriesInstagram & Creator Tools, Gaming & Streaming ToolsGaming & Streaming Tools
Strengths
  • Completely free
  • Professional features
  • Plugins
  • Free
  • Cloud overlays
  • Sponsorship offers
Watch out for
  • Setup takes some learning
  • Features vary by platform
Visit OBS StudioVisit StreamElements

Which should you choose?

OBS Studio: Free, open-source software for recording and live streaming.

StreamElements: Cloud-based overlays, chatbot and monetisation tools for streamers.

The best way to decide is to run the same week of real work through both — most offer a free plan or trial — and compare how long tasks take, what your team prefers, and the total cost for your number of users including renewal pricing.

Not sure either fits? See all gaming & streaming tools compared.