OBS Studio vs Streamlabs OBS – Top Casino Streaming Software

To stream casino games while you play them, you need to use broadcasting software. While there are a few programs now available in this niche, OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS are the two most popular. 

This guide puts both of these pieces of software through their paces. You learn about their user-friendliness, features, and how easy (or not) they are to set up, among other things. It’s fair to say that both applications share a number of similarities, there are also notable differences which you should know about.

BROADCASTING SOFTWARE – WHAT IS IT?

In a nutshell, broadcasting software is a computer program that records your video and sound, and distributes this content in real-time to a streaming platform, such as Twitch, Mixer or YouTube. In addition, broadcasting software allows the streamer to:

  • Switch/Alternate between multiple cameras.
  • Change audio sources if desired.
  • Insert and play pre-recorded videos within a live stream.
  • Add images and banners around the video screen container.
  • Insert special animated effects.
  • Use green-screen technology.

OPEN BROADCASTER SOFTWARE (OBS STUDIO)

OBS Studio is probably the best known broadcasting software on the market, and most streamers have dabbled with this program at some point in their streaming career. There are multiple benefits of using OBS Studio, including:

Cost – Open Broadcaster Software is completely free. Also, it’s open-source. This allows developers to review the code and build new plugins to continuously evolve the software’s features, which enhances the user experience for everyone.

User-friendly interface – OBS Studio offers several options for customising the interface. You are able to drag and drop the elements you need for your stream and arrange them as you please. Additionally, OBS Studio has a multitude of settings for which you can create hotkeys for different actions, and Studio Mode lets you preview scenes and sources before going live with your stream.

If you are a newcomer to casino streams, OBS Studio provides an auto-configuration wizard which sets up the platform, so you can jump straight in without any hassle.

CPU usage isn’t too heavy – Casino streaming makes your computer work, but OBS Studio is one of the more lightweight broadcasting software programs in regards to CPU usage. This means that you can achieve relatively smooth streams without having to spend a fortune on a super computer.

Gets updates first – OBS is the original broadcaster software, and because many developers have built products on, and around it, the chances are any updates and patches arrive here first. This ensures that OBS Studio is always going to be among the leading programs in this niche.

Supports all platforms – This software supports all of the most popular streaming platforms; making it a great all-rounder. Moreover, it’s compatible with all the major operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.

OBS Studio does have a couple of shortcomings, however. These need to be brought into consideration when choosing which open broadcast software you are going to use.

Limited free overlays – There are a few customisable themes (overlays) within the Studio, but after those, you will have to get your wallet out if you something a little different from other streamers. If you’re just starting out on a budget, this may not be possible. 

Cannot accept donations – Donations are a big part of streaming. Generous viewers often make donations to support your time and effort. However, OBS Studio doesn’t have a feature for these. Twitch has attempted to rectify this issue with the introduction of an in-house token: Bits. Therefore, you have a work-around to use now, but you need to set this up first.

STREAMLABS OBS

Streamlabs Open Broadcaster Software, fondly known as SLOBS, is now owned by the giant computer company Logitech. Essentially, Streamlabs OBS is an improved version of the original OBS (Studio). The guys at Logitech took a look at the open-source code, which is perfectly acceptable, and improved upon it. Let’s take a closer look at what it brings to the table.

Cost – The core Streamlabs OBS is free as well. There is a premium account package you can purchase later, but to get up and running, you don’t need to spend a dime. As a matter of fact, it’s possible to earn money from Streamlabs by joining its affiliate program. This won’t pay a fortune, but it’s better than nothing.

Easy setup – Although OBS Studio is simple to setup, Streamlabs is even easier. For a complete novice, you can’t go wrong. Here are the steps to take:

  1. Visit Streamlabs website and download the software.
  2. Run the Setup Wizard to install the software on your computer.
  3. After that process is complete, link your streaming account.
  4. Run the built-in optimiser to configure the settings.
  5. Type in your stream key and go live with your stream.

Chat feature – Unlike Studio, Streamlabs OBS has a built in chat feature complete with a series of useful tools for moderators, such as link and spam protection.

Test buttons – It may not seem like much, but SLOBS has a test widget which allows you to check all the features, functions and settings with just one click before going live. This helps you see that your screen alerts and chat are all set up correctly in advance.

A wider selection of overlays: SLOBS users can pick from several integrated themes which are free. There are both static and animated overlays, so you can find the right one to suit you and your channel.

Streamlabs OBS is very impressive, but there are a couple of things to be aware of before taking this piece of software.

Higher CPU Usage: The price of having more bells and whistles is that they require more RAM and processing power. You will not get away with running slobs on an old and slow PC, so make certain that you have the right piece of kit for the job.

Doesn’t offer sound commands: While a perk of SLOBS is the built-in chat, it doesn’t have sounds commands. If this is a requirement for you, then you need a standalone chatbot plugin.

Windows only: The only download available on the Streamlabs website is for Windows operating systems. However, there is ongoing work to develop an OBS for Mac computers.

IN CONCLUSION

As highlighted both open broadcaster software progams are free, and both are open-source. This allows you to trial each product to find the right fit for you. 

However, to start with, you must assess the equipment you will be using. SLOBS requires a powerful PC. If you don’t have one of these, OBS Studio will have to do. Also, if you don’t use a Windows machine; once again, you’re restricted to Studio. 

That said, streamers with a decent Windows PC, Streamlabs is a top option. It offers more features, and is easier to use for beginners. This is the software that gets our vote, but it’s very close between the two.