What are the Best Free and Paid Streaming Services?

When it comes to live streaming, there are a variety of free and paid streaming services available to choose from. These platforms offer different features, capabilities, and price points. In this article, we'll explore the top options for both free and paid streaming services. 

Free Streaming Services

If you're just getting started with live streaming, or have a limited budget, there are several free streaming services available. These include:

1. YouTube Live

YouTube Live is one of the most popular free streaming platforms. It's easy to use, and allows you to stream directly from your YouTube channel. The platform also offers robust analytics, which can be helpful in evaluating your stream's performance.

2. Facebook Live

Facebook Live is another popular free streaming platform. It's integrated with Facebook's social media platform, making it easy to reach a wide audience. The platform also offers features like real-time comments and reactions.

3. Twitch

Twitch is primarily known as a streaming platform for gamers, but it can also be used for other types of live streaming. The platform offers features like live chat and subscriber-only content.

Paid streaming services

Here at Chris Burns Creative, we tend to point our customers to one of three paid options, as they provide the best bang-for-your-buck.

1. Vimeo Livestream

Vimeo Livestream is a popular paid streaming service that offers a range of features, including custom branding, audience chat, and the ability to monetize your stream through ticket sales or subscriptions. Pricing for Vimeo Livestream starts at $75 per month.

2. Restream.io

Restream.io also offers a paid plan with additional features like custom branding and analytics. It’s the best “plug-and-play” option for budget-sensitive productions. Pricing for Restream.io starts at $19 per month.

3. Dacast

Dacast offers a range of paid plans with features like custom branding, monetization options, and analytics. Pricing for Dacast starts at $19 per month. It is the most feature-heavy platform we’ve come across.

Here at Chris Burns Creative, our job is to make your next livestream production stand out from the pack. We’re happy to provide a free, custom quote for any size project.