Every streamer understands the significance of streaming software.
With so many options available, choosing can often be difficult.
While OBS is the most popular choice, could Wirecast be a better option?
I will compare the prices and features, and discuss the advantages of both Wirecast and OBS.
To begin with, let’s discuss OBS—many streamers assert that this is the best streaming software they have ever used.
Since its launch, numerous tech enthusiasts have contributed to its improvement over the years, resulting in an unmatched user experience.
So, is it truly that good?
Let’s delve into more details!
Price
Both professionals and beginners appreciate that OBS is free. Professionals enjoy the numerous advanced features available at no cost, while beginners value the ability to start their own brand with minimal investment.
The download link is accessible to everyone, and streamers have the opportunity to modify the code, customize it to their preferences, and contribute to its enhancement.
Updates are typically added to OBS first, followed by other software, allowing you to experience new features at no cost.
Installation and Setup
Installing it is simple—just obtain the download link and follow the instructions.
Conversely, the setup process can be somewhat more complex.
Firstly, you need to understand the capabilities of your computer. OBS comes with default settings, but you can adjust them to better align with your computer’s specifications and produce high-quality videos.
When you launch OBS, select the streaming settings, and then open the Settings tab.
Connect the streaming platform to the software, and configure the appropriate ingest server.
Next, begin adjusting the other settings; you will likely need to change the FPS, bitrate, and resolution.
Manually set up Hotkeys and connect external devices.
Once this is complete, you can begin adding sources, scenes, experimenting with various transitions, adding alerts, and more.
Features
OBS is software that offers the greatest versatility.
Few programs are compatible with all operating systems.
OBS functions effectively on Windows, Mac, and Linux computers—just ensure you are using the correct download link.
The only operating system on which it won’t work is Windows XP.
When it comes to streaming services, you have several options. If you get bored with Twitch streaming, you can easily switch to another service.
You will need to adjust some of the settings when switching, but you do not have to configure the program from the beginning.
Now, let’s discuss the game recording.
You can either begin streaming the game or record it and upload it later to a platform of your choice.
Game capture is ideal for recording gameplay, but it may not be compatible with all games.
Fortunately, you can switch to either Windows or Desktop capture.
Once you click on the “+” icon in Sources, you will notice that Browser can also be added as a Source.
This feature is suitable for adding alerts. Since these alerts are not built into OBS, you must create them using other programs and then use a URL to incorporate them into OBS.
Image sources are utilized for adding overlays. Once more, create the image in Photoshop or another program, and then add it.
Advantages
1. Uses minimal resources
OBS uses fewer resources than other streaming software.
If you use one of the most common types of capture—Game capture—the resource usage will be even lower, and the videos will have excellent quality, even if they are recorded at a frame rate below 60 FPS.
2. Twenty Plugins
When using OBS, you must rely on plugins.
Fortunately, there are twenty different options available—you can add Twitch chat, notifications, various video files, and more.
3. Scene Preview
In Studio mode, you can preview the Scenes before going live.
This feature enables you to identify mistakes and correct them promptly.
4. User-friendly interface
For many, the default OBS screen appears somewhat intimidating at first.
Once you begin exploring the software, you will realize how straightforward it truly is.
Adding scenes, transitions, hotkeys, or adjusting the sound does not require any prior knowledge.
Disadvantages
1. Time-Consuming Setup
Configuring OBS can be challenging due to the numerous settings and options available, making it difficult to determine which choices will be the most effective.
2. You cannot add music
In Sources, there is no option to add an audio file, making it nearly impossible to incorporate music into streams using OBS.
There are plugins available, like DirectShow, for various audio inputs; however, mp3 files cannot be added.
What is Wirecast?
Wirecast is a streaming software developed by Telestream that works on both Windows and Mac.
Compared to OBS, it offers more options, but is it suitable for everyone?
Price
Regrettably, this program is not free.
There is a free trial available, but if you intend to use the program, you will need to invest in it.
Two versions are available: you can obtain a license for either Studio or Pro.
The first license is slightly cheaper, costing “only” $599, while the second is priced at $799.
With Wirecast Pro, you gain additional features, but more on that later.
Installation and Setup
Let’s examine some general requirements before we discuss installation.
As mentioned, Wirecast is compatible with Windows and Mac, but not all versions are supported.
Windows users should have Windows 7 or a newer version, while Mac users need macOS El Capitan or a later version.
Here are the remaining requirements:
If you are having difficulty with the installation or setup process, it is advisable to visit the Wirecast website – they provide guides for both operating systems.
Before beginning the setup process, ensure that all external devices are connected. For cameras, a capture card is essential.
Now, select one of the options: free, Studio, or Pro.
The default screen in Wirecast consists of four sections:
Navigate to layers to add a capture device; if it is plugged in, Wirecast will easily recognize it.
In the editing window, you will find the Chroma key required to change the background.
Place the screen capture directly next to the capture device.
To add audio, navigate to capture devices and select the microphone. The audio layer can be positioned at the bottom.
To add images, you need to select Media File, which enables you to browse your computer.
These are general steps for setting up Wirecast.
Features
When it comes to features, Wirecast is unparalleled, even if you opt for the less expensive version.
First, let’s discuss video and audio editing tools.
You are already aware of the significance of high-quality videos and a clear tone.
Wirecast enables you to add multiple audio and video files, create loops, and select starting and ending points for both.
If you require any external video file, such as one from Zoom or Skype, you can easily add it and integrate it into the stream.
When it comes to Scenes, many are already available. The Wirecast library contains over 200 scenes, allowing you to find the one that best suits your stream. Additionally, each of these premade screens can be customized.
What makes Wirecast superior to OBS is its ability to restream. Currently, with OBS, you can stream to only one platform at a time.
Conversely, Wirecast enables you to share your stream across multiple platforms, allowing you to expand your community beyond Twitch.
Advantages
1. Numerous advanced features
Wirecast integrates advanced features, eliminating the need to search for another program.
It features 3D sets, projectors, IP cameras, slideshows, and many other elements.
2. Preview and Live Window
These are the two most significant windows.
The preview window is visible only to you. Once you click on Send, the scene will be added to the Live window that your audience views.
3. Playlists
Using playlists, you can create Highlights.
Shots required for playlists can be gathered even while the live stream is ongoing.
Disadvantages
Excessively priced
For many streamers, Wirecast is prohibitively expensive.
The Studio version costs $599, yet it does not provide access to all features.
OBS vs. Wirecast – which is better?
With Wirecast, you can create professional-looking streams. Playlists, unlimited sources and destinations, and premade scenes are all excellent features.
Despite having numerous built-in features, it still supports plugins, allowing you to maximize its utility.
If you don’t mind the price, choose Wirecast—you won’t regret it.
For others, OBS will also work well – it suits beginners and professionals alike, supports all operating systems and streaming platforms, and can be upgraded with plugins.
