Which Live Streaming Service Is The Best?

You may have entertained the idea of running a live web-cast, but don’t know how to do it or even where to go to broadcast from.

Since the mid-2000s there have been several live streaming services that have come and gone. For the ones still around, some are showing growth while others have an maybe/maybe not future.

Before listing the services, what you need is simply a webcam and a microphone. Most webcams have microphones built-in. However if you want something better, try a USB-connected headset with microphone attached. If you want to go better than that, try a dedicated external USB microphone.

If you are trying live streaming for the first time, I do not recommend pushing cash into equipment, because you may not even care for it. Use what you have and see if it’s your thing or not.

With that said, here are the services.

Stickam

The best part about Stickam is that even with the crappiest broadband connection, it will work great as it requires only minimal bandwidth. The worst part is that the web interface has a bit of a learning curve.

LiveStream

Formerly known as Mogulus, if high-quality streams are what you’re looking for, this is it. However this comes with a price, so to speak. First of all, you are limited to how many participants you can have with a free account. Secondly, the web interface is disgustingly heavy with Flash. You will need a fast computer to use this optimally. Third, you must get “approved” in order to get better options, even with a free account.

Justin.tv

This service has the easiest way to get streaming really quickly. All it takes is one click from the home page. I’m not kidding. However the largest drawback is the name “Justin” in the title of the site. This is a turn-off for many.

BlogTV

Many popular YouTubers and others like the BlogTV interface. It’s easy and the pro account is actually worth the money for the fact you can record up to 500 minutes (over 8 hours!)

Ustream

This is the service we use for the PCMech Live show. Although it takes somewhat of a learning curve to get used to the interface, this is one of the few live streaming companies that is actually showing growth. They are making friends with big names and several pro-companies prefer Ustream over any other. There are no restrictions as to how many viewers you can have and the service is generally reliable.

Which is the best?

If bandwidth is your primary consideration, Stickam is the best.

If quality is your primary consideration, Livestream is the best.

If exposure and pro options are your primary consideration, BlogTV is the best.

If you want a “happy medium”, Ustream is the best. (Happy medium means not the best, not the worst but right around the middle concerning features, exposure and reliability.)