Best software to use for gaming video streaming in 2025

If you’re diving into gaming video streaming in 2025—whether you’re aiming to dominate Twitch, grow a YouTube Gaming channel, or build a community on Kick—your choice of streaming software can make or break your content. The best streaming software balances performance, customization, and ease of use, while offering tools that help you engage your audience and elevate your production quality. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top streaming software for gamers in 2025, tailored to different experience levels and goals.

OBS Studio – The Gold Standard for Streamers

Why it’s a favorite: OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software) is the most widely used streaming software among gamers—and for good reason. It’s free, open-source, and endlessly customizable.

Key Features:

• High-performance real-time video/audio capturing and mixing
• Unlimited scenes and sources
• Support for plugins and scripts (Lua, Python)
• Studio Mode for previewing scenes before going live
• Stream to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, and more via RTMP
• Best for: Intermediate to advanced streamers who want full control over their setup.

2. Streamlabs Desktop (SLOBS) – User-Friendly OBS Alternative

Built on OBS, Streamlabs adds a polished interface and built-in tools like alerts, overlays, and chat integration. It’s ideal for creators who want a plug-and-play experience.

Key Features:

• One-click multistreaming (Twitch, YouTube, Facebook)
• Built-in donation and merch tools
• Cloud-based scene backups
• Custom themes and widgets
• Best for: Beginners and intermediate streamers who want convenience and monetization tools.

XSplit Broadcaster – Polished and Professional

XSplit offers a clean UI and powerful scene management tools, making it a favorite among Windows users who want a premium experience.

Key Features:

• Scene preview editor
• VCam for background blur/removal
• Local recording and live streaming
• Stream delay and projector mode
• Best for: Streamers who want a professional look with minimal setup.

4. Restream Studio – Multi-Platform Streaming Made Easy

Restream lets you broadcast to multiple platforms simultaneously—without needing a powerful PC. Its browser-based studio is perfect for creators who want to maximize reach.

Key Features:

• Stream to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, and more
• Invite guests to your stream
• Custom branding and overlays
• Chat aggregation from all platforms
• Best for: Streamers who want to grow across multiple platforms at once.

5. Lightstream – Cloud-Based Simplicity

Lightstream is a cloud-based streaming studio that’s especially useful for console gamers. You can stream directly from your Xbox or PlayStation without a capture card.

Key Features:

• Browser-based editor with drag-and-drop overlays
• Remote guest support
• Auto-sync with Twitch and YouTube
• Console streaming without extra hardware
• Best for: Console gamers and creators with limited hardware.

6. Wirecast – Broadcast-Grade Power

Wirecast is used for esports tournaments and professional broadcasts. It’s packed with features like multi-camera switching, instant replay, and ISO recording.

Key Features:

• Support for unlimited sources and destinations
• Chroma key, scoreboards, and lower thirds
• Built-in conferencing and remote guest tools
• ISO recording for post-production
• Best for: High-end streamers, esports broadcasters, and production teams.

7. NVIDIA Broadcast – AI-Powered Enhancement

While not a full streaming suite, NVIDIA Broadcast enhances your stream’s audio and visuals using AI—perfect for RTX GPU users.

Key Features:

• Noise removal and echo cancellation
• Virtual background and auto-framing
• Webcam enhancements
• Best for: Streamers who want to improve production quality without extra gear.