Recommended Free Tools
Best overall setup for most PC creators: use OBS Studio as your encoder and pair it with a cloud relay such as Restream when you need to send one live feed to multiple platforms. Streamlabs is another cloud-forwarding option, with free Dual Output for one horizontal and one vertical destination and broader multistreaming as part of Ultra. The right choice depends on how many destinations you need, whether your accounts are supported, and whether you want to upload one feed or run multiple outputs from your PC.
What counts as multistreaming software?
Multistreaming usually involves two separate jobs: encoding your video and distributing it to multiple destinations. OBS Studio, Streamlabs Desktop, XSplit, and vMix can serve as streaming software or encoders. A relay service receives a feed from your PC and forwards it to selected platforms.
This distinction matters when choosing a setup. Restream lists OBS Studio, Streamlabs, XSplit, and vMix as software options, and its free tier accepts third-party software such as OBS. You can therefore keep an encoder you already know and add a relay rather than replacing your entire workflow. Restream’s guide to streaming to multiple platforms describes its supported software options.
The best options for PC multistreaming
| Option | Best for | How distribution works | Important limit or qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| OBS Studio + a relay | Creators who want a configurable, free desktop encoder and flexibility in their choice of relay | OBS sends a feed to a relay such as Restream, which distributes it to destinations | OBS is an encoder, not by itself a turnkey multistream relay. Restream’s free plan supports two channels; three or more require a paid plan. |
| Restream | OBS users who want a documented free option for two destinations, or creators who want a cloud relay | Accepts a feed from third-party software such as OBS and forwards it to connected channels | The free plan includes Restream branding. Paid plans are required for three or more channels, Facebook Pages or Groups, and custom RTMP destinations. |
| Streamlabs Multistream | Creators using Streamlabs Desktop or an OBS workflow who want cloud forwarding | Streamlabs says it receives one PC stream and distributes it from its servers; it can be used through Streamlabs Desktop, an OBS plugin, or dashboard RTMP credentials | Free Dual Output is for one horizontal and one vertical destination. Broader Multistream is an Ultra feature. |
| XSplit or vMix with a relay | Creators already using either encoder who want to retain their existing setup | Restream lists both as software that can connect to its relay | The available sources do not establish a comparative multistream feature set or price for these encoders. |
1. OBS Studio with a relay: best flexible starting point
OBS Studio is free, open source, and available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, according to Restream’s guide. On a PC, it provides the configurable desktop encoding stage; a relay handles the distribution to multiple destinations. This suits creators who value control over their encoder and do not mind configuring a separate service.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Do not assume that installing OBS alone creates a cloud relay or removes destination limits. Decide which service will receive OBS’s stream, then check how many destinations your plan supports and whether it accepts your intended account type.
2. Restream: best documented free relay for two channels
Restream’s help page, dated February 9, 2026, says its free plan includes two channels, third-party software such as OBS, multi-chat, analytics, and events. It also includes Restream branding. Restream states that its paid plans are needed for three or more channels, Facebook Pages or Groups, and custom RTMP destinations; paid tiers remove the watermark and unlock Studio Full HD. These are plan details from Restream, not independent performance findings. Check Restream’s current pricing-plan details before committing, since limits and inclusions can change.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
3. Streamlabs Multistream: best if its workflow fits your setup
Streamlabs describes Multistream as cloud forwarding: your PC sends one stream, and Streamlabs distributes it to the selected platforms. It says the service can be used through Streamlabs Desktop, an OBS plugin, or dashboard RTMP credentials. Streamlabs offers free Dual Output for one horizontal and one vertical destination, while its broader Multistream feature requires Ultra. Its stated bandwidth advantage is a vendor description of how cloud forwarding works, not a separately measured benchmark.
Streamlabs lists Twitch, YouTube, TikTok, Kick, Facebook, Instagram, Patreon, X, and custom RTMP among its destinations. Availability can vary by feature and account type, so confirm the specific combination you intend to use on Streamlabs’ Multistream page.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
4. XSplit and vMix: encoder choices, not ranked relay plans
Restream lists XSplit and vMix among software options that can connect to its service. The available information does not establish a head-to-head comparison of their built-in multistream features or prices, so choose between them based on your existing encoder workflow and verify their current capabilities separately.
How to choose the right setup
Start with your destinations and account types
- For two standard channels, Restream’s documented free tier may be sufficient if its branding and other plan conditions work for you.
- If you need three or more Restream channels, a Facebook Page or Group, or a custom RTMP destination, Restream says you need a paid plan.
- If you want one horizontal and one vertical output, Streamlabs says its free Dual Output covers that configuration. More extensive Streamlabs Multistream requires Ultra.
- Check whether each platform destination supports your exact account type and workflow; a platform appearing in a destination list does not guarantee every feature works for every account.
Choose cloud forwarding or multiple local outputs
With a cloud relay, your PC sends one feed to the provider, which then forwards it. Streamlabs describes this as reducing the need for repeated uploads from your PC. By contrast, separate local outputs can require more encoding and upload work on your computer and network. The trade-off described by Streamlabs is a product explanation, not an independent benchmark; actual demands depend on your configuration and connection.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Match the software to your working style
- Keep an existing OBS workflow: connect OBS to a relay if you want cloud distribution without changing your encoder.
- Use Streamlabs tools already: compare Streamlabs Desktop, its OBS plugin, and dashboard RTMP route against your preferred workflow.
- Need a particular feature: compare destination caps, account compatibility, branding, HD or studio features, and plan terms before paying.
Cost and plan checks before you commit
Plan names and feature boundaries are more useful than a headline price when deciding whether a service fits. Restream’s help page dated February 9, 2026 documents two channels on its free plan and paid requirements for several expanded uses, but pricing pages can change. Streamlabs identifies broader Multistream as an Ultra feature; verify its current plan and price directly before subscribing.
- Count destinations, including whether any require custom RTMP.
- Confirm whether your destination is a profile, Page, or Group and whether that account type is eligible.
- Check whether branding is displayed on the free tier and what plan removes it.
- Verify any resolution, studio, or guest-feature limits that matter to your production.
- Review current monthly or annual terms and cancellation conditions on the provider’s own plan page.
There is no independent performance test here that establishes one provider as faster or more reliable than another. Treat destination counts and feature inclusions as vendor-documented plan facts, not evidence of comparative stream quality.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minutePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Keep a YouTube channel live around the clock
If your actual goal is to keep a YouTube channel live 24/7 using uploaded recordings, that is different from sending a live PC production to several platforms at once. StreamNeo is a YouTube-only cloud service for uploaded videos: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It keeps the loop running in the cloud, so your computer does not need to stay on. Its one flat price per slot applies to any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps, and it can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Learn more at StreamNeo.
Or let it run in the cloud
Upload your video or playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; your upload streams at its original quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start at StreamNeo’s free trial.
Verdict
For a configurable PC setup, OBS Studio plus a relay is the clearest starting point. Restream has a documented free two-channel tier, while Streamlabs is worth considering if its Desktop, OBS plugin, or dashboard route suits your workflow and its destination limits fit. Select by the destinations and account types you actually need, then confirm current plan details before subscribing.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
