Lightstream vs Owncast
On the evidence we track, Lightstream leads this comparison with a composite score of 70/100. Scores are only directly comparable because these tools share a category; the full breakdown and every source is below.
Capabilities
Feature-by-feature on the axes that matter for live streaming. “-” means undocumented, not absent.
What each one is
The product in its own terms, so the numbers below have context.
Lightstream
LeaderA suite of tools that enables streamers to enhance their live broadcasts with professional effects, overlays, transitions, and text without requiring advanced video editing expertise.
Owncast
An open source streaming server that runs on your infrastructure using standard protocols, featuring built-in chat, moderation, custom branding, and no subscription fees or viewer limits.
Pricing
List pricing as published by each vendor, with the date we read it. Always verify at the source before you buy.
Lightstream
LeaderFree tier available. Premium at $12/mo or $9/mo on annual subscription.
- FreeFree
- Cloud capture for Xbox and PlayStation
- Simulcasting with up to 5 destinations including Custom RTMP
- Stream templates and overlays
- XPN alerts and overlays
- 720p streaming
- +2 more
- Premium$12/mo or $9/mo billed annually
- Remove Lightstream Studio logo from streams
- Add up to 10 guests to your stream
- Import URLs from any 3rd party service
- 720p and 1080p streaming
- 48 hour limit per stream
- +2 more
Platform & deployment
Where each product runs and how it can be hosted. A dash means undocumented, not unsupported.
Integrations
What each product connects to. Counts come from the vendor's own integration directory where one exists.
Lightstream
Leader- Rainmaker
- StreamElements
- Twitch
- YouTube
- Mixer
- Xbox
- PlayStation
- Custom RTMP
Owncast
- Mastodon
- ActivityPub
- Webhooks
Lightstream or Owncast: which one depends on you
A composite score cannot know your constraints. Describe them and both get re-weighted against what you actually need, with the evidence behind every position.
Free to run, no account needed to start. How the evaluation works
Comparison generated from independently-sourced facts. Every value links to its source and retrieval date. See the method.