Livestreaming is one of the biggest forms of online entertainment today. Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook all offer ways to livestream events and services. If you are on a PC, there are more high-end options available to you than for Mac users, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to lifestream on a Mac. However, in order to make sure you have the best quality stream possible, you need to utilize the best livestream software for Mac.
What to Look for in Livestreaming Software
When livestreaming, it helps to make use of a variety of tools that you can set up to make your stream easier and more seamless. This is especially important if you are setting up your livestream equipment by yourself. To make sure you have everything you need for livestreaming on a Mac, apply the following details to your software search.
Video
When you livestream, you will, of course, be using video of some kind. This could be screen capturing a game you are playing, sharing a presentation, or using a camera input. No matter what kind of video you want to livestream, you will need a program that can handle all of your inputs.
Now, most programs can work with any sort of video input, but you need to make sure the program you’re using can handle the right number of inputs for your needs. If you are working on a live music or sporting event, you will likely need to find a different streaming program than if you’re lifestreaming yourself playing a video game.
Switcher
Transitioning from shot to shot while livestreaming is made possible by a tool called a switcher. You can choose from a manually-controlled switcher or a simple button that you press to change between shots. The switcher that you choose is totally up to you. It’s just important that you have some way to transition between shots so that your stream runs smoothly.
Layering
It has become popular for streamers to show their face in a box somewhere on the screen while livestreaming. This is a form of layering your shots in a way that changes the visual outcome of your stream. Layering can be used to add special effects to your videos as well as text and images that direct your audience to click on a special link.
Audio
There are many ways that audio can be incorporated into a livestream. For musical and corporate livestreams, audio is usually mixed beforehand, and the final tracks are sent to the streamer. If you are a gamer, you might have your own mixer or music sampler that lets you easily control the audio without having to change settings on the computer itself.
However, if you are wanting to keep it simple, you can usually use the audio settings in the livestreaming software itself. Many programs, such as OBS, offer level controls for all of your inputs so you can mix the output as well as add as many different audio controls as you’d like.
The Best Livestream Software for Mac
Once you know what to look for, finding the best livestream software for Mac that suits you best is a lot easier. With the best livestream software for Mac, you can create professional branding for your lifestreams.
Streamlabs
No matter why you’re streaming, Streamlabs can set you up for success. Streamlabs is the most popular and praised livestream software that people use for anything from gaming to streaming music. Streamers like Matt Heafy and Pokimane use Streamlabs for all of their streams. Most professional users that use Streamlabs are streaming multiple times per day, which goes to show that this program is sustainable in the long run.
Pros:
- Multi-platform stream
- Tip alerts
- Easy setup
Cons:
- Hard to learn
Best for:
- All-in-one streaming tool
Pricing:
- Free membership
- Prime membership
- $19.00 per month
- $149 per year
5 star rating
OBS
No matter which streaming layout makes the most sense to you, it’s going to be compatible with OBS. Their customizable layouts let you optimize your workflow. Once you get started in OBS, you will become more comfortable with their streaming platform, screen recording tools, and endless inputs for both video and audio. You can even create custom scenes for transitioning to any part of your stream, which gives viewers an even better experience.
Pros:
- Streamlined setup
- Custom dock for efficiency
- Available on all platforms
Cons:
- Difficult to learn
Best for:
- Affordable pricing
Pricing:
- Free
5 star rating
Studio 6
Vimeo, one of the best professional video platforms, has its own streaming program called Studio 6. It is a streaming program built for high-quality productions with in-depth controls for both video and audio. And when you integrate wireless cameras into the mix, you will see a major upgrade to your livestreams.
Pros:
- Wireless camera connection
- 4K quality
- Stream on multiple platforms
Cons:
- Only available with Vimeo Premium
Best for:
- Professional and corporate environments
Pricing:
- $75 per month
CamTwist
When it comes to learning how livestreaming works you are better off using a free platform such as CamTwist. It has all of the basic features that you will see in an expensive livestream software. And if you get stuck at any point, make sure to check out their video tutorials available on the CamTwist website.
Pros:
- Customization
- Works with HDMI capture cards
- Comes with over 50 effects
Cons:
- Low quality
Best for:
- Beginners
Pricing:
- Free
4-star rating
Take out all of the Guesswork
As you go about livestreaming, you will probably discover areas where you could upgrade your streaming quality and improve your equipment. It is always a great idea to get better tools when possible if it means your production quality will be elevated. If you plan to grow your following and upgrade your gear, make sure you have the right livestream software that can handle your new additions to your streams. There is nothing worse than having to make quick purchases or return equipment because it is not compatible, so researching ahead of time is key!
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