OBS vs. Streamlabs
If you are planning to start streaming or are already actively broadcasting, you have likely faced a choice: OBS Studio or Streamlabs OBS. Both programs are popular among streamers, but they differ in functionality, convenience, and capabilities. In 2025, each has received updates and improvements — it's time to figure out which one suits you best.
OBS vs Streamlabs: A Brief Comparison
What is OBS Studio
OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) is free and fully open-source software for recording and broadcasting. It is cross-platform, works on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and is used by millions of content creators worldwide.
The main advantage of OBS is flexibility and extensibility. With numerous plugins and modules, you can adapt the program for any task — from simple streaming to professional online events.
What is Streamlabs OBS
Streamlabs OBS (now simply Streamlabs Desktop) is a modified version of OBS, built on the original code but with additional features, integrations, and visual tools. The program is aimed at beginner streamers who value convenience and ready-made templates without complex settings.
Interface and Ease of Use
OBS Studio
OBS has a minimalist interface by default. There are no unnecessary elements — only scenes, sources, mixer, and settings. The interface is suitable for those who like control over every parameter. However, for beginners, it may seem difficult to navigate: some features are hidden deep in menus, and scene setup takes time.
The advantage is that OBS does not impose any services, does not require registration, and does not show ads. Everything is under the user's control.
Streamlabs OBS
Streamlabs, on the other hand, focuses on simplicity. The interface is modern, visually clear, and highly user-friendly. You can choose a theme, connect chat, donations, widgets, and even design the stream directly from the application. Many settings are automated — the program automatically determines optimal parameters for your hardware and internet speed.
The downside is that Streamlabs includes ads and paid features (Prime) that not everyone needs.
Performance and Resource Usage
In 2025, OBS Studio remains lightweight and stable. It does not overload the system and works even on low-end PCs. With proper settings, the stream runs smoothly and CPU load is minimal.
Streamlabs, in contrast, requires more RAM and CPU resources because it includes built-in browser widgets and animations. On powerful PCs this is unnoticeable, but on laptops and budget builds, the difference is clear: FPS may drop and the video may stutter.
Conclusion: if maximum performance is important to you — choose OBS Studio. If convenience is more important — Streamlabs Desktop.
Settings and Customization Options
OBS Studio
OBS provides full control over video, audio, codecs, bitrate, scenes, and sources. You can manually manage stream settings, choose an encoder (x264, NVENC, AV1), configure hotkeys, filters, and transitions.
Additionally, OBS allows connecting third-party plugins — for example, Move Transition, NDI, OBS Shaderfilter, VST plugins to enhance audio, and more. This turns OBS into a true professional toolkit.
Streamlabs
Streamlabs also supports scenes, sources, and filters, but the depth of settings is smaller. The main strength of the program is integrations: donations, chat, alerts, subscription widgets, statistics. All this is available in just a few clicks.
However, extending functionality as flexibly as in OBS is not possible. Most additional features are only in the paid Streamlabs Ultra (Prime) subscription.
Compatibility and Updates
OBS is regularly updated by the developer community and supports the latest encoding technologies, including AV1 and HEVC. In 2025, the program is fully compatible with modern GPUs from NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel, making it suitable for any system.
Streamlabs also receives updates, but with a delay, as it relies on the OBS core. However, it has better integration with YouTube Live, Twitch, Facebook, and Kick — everything connects without manually entering stream keys.
Support and Community
OBS is an open-source project with a large community. There are many guides, forums, plugins, and video tutorials online, so any problem can be solved within minutes.
Streamlabs offers official support and a built-in FAQ, but for non-standard issues, help may be limited.
Additional Streamlabs Features
Streamlabs is positioned as an "all-in-one" solution. The program includes:
- Donations and alerts;
- Overlay and template library;
- Statistics monitoring;
- Multistreaming (via Ultra subscription);
- Chatbot for moderation.
OBS does not have these features "out of the box," but you can add everything manually — using plugins and third-party services like StreamElements or Restream.
OBS vs Streamlabs: Which to Choose in 2025?
When to Choose OBS Studio
- You want maximum performance and flexibility.
- You are able (or willing) to handle settings manually.
- You run professional streams, podcasts, or webinars.
- You do not want to rely on paid subscriptions.
When to Choose Streamlabs Desktop
- You are a beginner and want to start streaming in 5 minutes.
- You value attractive design and built-in widgets.
- You stream on multiple platforms and use donations.
- You prefer an all-in-one interface.
Conclusion: Who Wins?
In 2025, OBS Studio and Streamlabs Desktop continue to evolve but target different types of users. In short:
- OBS — the choice for professionals and those who value stability, control, and open source.
- Streamlabs — the solution for beginners and those who want a visually appealing stream without complex settings.
The optimal approach is to start with Streamlabs to learn the basics, then switch to OBS for more advanced capabilities.