There is no single monthly price for an AWS Elemental MediaLive 24/7 YouTube channel. Estimate it in the AWS Pricing Calculator using your region, channel class, every configured input and output, and any add-ons; then account for the hours resources will run and any idle-resource or data-transfer charges. The official AWS example is configuration-specific, not a quote for your channel.
What to enter in the AWS pricing calculator
AWS describes MediaLive channel pricing as the sum of configured inputs, outputs, and enabled add-on features. Rates vary with region and configuration. Use the AWS Elemental MediaLive pricing page to open the AWS Pricing Calculator and build an estimate for your actual setup; AWS says the calculator can estimate MediaLive alongside the broader architecture.
- Select the AWS region. Use the region in which you plan to run the channel. Regional rates matter, so an example from one region is not a universal quote.
- Choose the channel class. Compare single-pipeline and standard pricing. Standard runs two processing pipelines in different Availability Zones for increased channel resiliency; use the standard-class rate rather than treating it as two separately billed channels.
- List every input. Record input type and count, codec, bitrate, and resolution. Include inputs attached to the channel even if they will not be active all the time.
- List every output rendition. For each output, record codec, bitrate, resolution, frame rate, and count. An adaptive-bitrate ladder with several renditions is several configured outputs, not simply one stream.
- Add enabled features. Include any chargeable add-ons, such as advanced audio, audio normalization, or motion graphics. AWS applies these add-on charges once per channel, not once per input or output.
- Enter expected running time. For continuous service, estimate the hours the channel will actually be started during a month. Use that monthly estimate for the subtotal, then multiply by 12 for an annualized on-demand comparison.
- Check charges beyond active processing. Include applicable idle-resource and data-transfer costs, plus costs for other AWS services in your delivery architecture. Keep the MediaLive subtotal separate from the full architecture estimate.
AWS says on-demand running-resource duration is rounded up to the nearest minute, with a 10-minute minimum. Recheck current rates and calculator inputs before relying on an estimate because prices and configurations can change.
Why the configuration changes the estimate
Inputs, outputs, and switching
Input charges depend on codec, bitrate, and resolution. Output charges depend on codec, bitrate, resolution, and frame rate. For input-switching configurations with more than one input, AWS applies the cost of two active inputs, even when the schedule contains more than two inputs.
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#1 Best Overall
- 【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265 /H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 4K UHD (3840x2160) video input and output, with a maximum frame rate of 30fps at 4K resolution and up to 120fps at 2K and lower resolutions, delivering a smooth and detailed visual experience. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI ultra HD video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and 4K ultra HD content transmission.
- 【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), FLV, WebRTC, TRTC, ICECAST, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- 【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- 【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- 【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
AWS’s official pricing page provides an illustrative on-demand standard-channel configuration in US East (N. Virginia) totaling $3.942 per hour: two 1080p HD HEVC inputs at 20 Mbps using input switching; AVC outputs at 1080p/5 Mbps/30 fps, 720p/2 Mbps/30 fps, 576p/1.2 Mbps/30 fps, 432p/0.8 Mbps/30 fps, and 288p/0.5 Mbps/30 fps; and advanced audio at $0.300 per hour. That dated-at-access example shows how multiple renditions and features add up. It is not a typical-channel rate or a quote for another region, and YouTube does not require that output ladder.
Channel class and resiliency
A single-pipeline channel uses the single-pipeline rate. A standard channel uses the standard-class rate and two pipelines in separate Availability Zones for increased channel resiliency. Compare the actual regional calculator estimates and decide whether the added resiliency suits your channel; do not infer the standard price by doubling a single-pipeline bill.
Rank #2
- 【Hardware H.265/H.264 Encoding at 1080P60】Dedicated hardware encoder delivers broadcast-quality 1080P60 streams with H.265/H.264 compression. Reduces bandwidth usage by up to 50% compared to legacy H.264-only solutions, while maintaining crisp, crystal-clear video output.
- 【Broad Protocol Support for IP Distribution】 Supports SRT, RTMP(S), RTSP, UDP, HTTP, HLS, WebRTC, TRTC, Icecast and SHOUTcast — integrate seamlessly with CDNs, surveillance NVRs, IPTV systems and browser-based monitoring dashboards. One device replaces multiple single-purpose streaming boxes.
- 【Browser-Based Setup in Minutes】 Set up in minutes through any browser — no software, drivers or OS compatibility issues. DHCP is enabled by default to prevent IP address conflicts on your network. Note: basic networking knowledge (IP address, RTSP/RTMP configuration) is recommended for advanced streaming setups.
- 【Compact Design with Flexible Deployment】Palm-sized form factor (approx. 90×54×29mm) fits easily behind monitors, on shelves, or in equipment racks. Low power consumption ensures reliable 24/7 operation for live events, remote monitoring, and digital signage.
- 【Professional Audio & OSD Overlay + 1-Year Warranty】 Supports HDMI embedded audio plus external 3.5mm input. Built-in OSD generator adds scrolling text, logos, or timestamps directly to the video stream — ideal for branding, event info, or security labeling. Backed by a 1-year warranty and 24/7 online technical support.
On-demand and reservations
AWS offers 12-month reservations for matching input, output, and add-on configurations and advertises savings of up to 75% compared with on-demand pricing. The realized savings depend on the reserved configuration and usage. Reserved rates are charged for every hour in each month of the commitment, and unused reserved minutes expire at month end rather than carrying forward. A 24/7 workload may be worth comparing, but check the actual commitment economics for your region and configuration.
Running, pausing, stopping, and idle charges
A channel is running when started and idle when stopped. While it is running, AWS charges for every attached input, including an inactive input or one receiving no content, and for every configured output, including one paused by you or by Elemental Live. Pausing an output or pipeline is therefore not the same as stopping the channel, and it does not remove the configured output charge.
Rank #3
- 4K & HD STREAMING IN H.264 AND H.265 – Self-contained processor supporting H.264 and H.265 encoding in HD or Ultra HD (up to 2160p60) via SRT or RTMP, streaming directly to YouTube, Facebook, X, Twitch, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, OBS, Wowza, and many more — no encoding PC needed.
- 12G-SDI INPUT WITH STANDARDS CONVERSION – Supports input resolutions up to DCI 4K60 with an SDI input and SDI loop output, plus Teranex-powered automatic standards conversion so any HD or Ultra HD source streams cleanly at any target resolution.
- DUAL MONITOR OUTPUTS – Features both SDI and HDMI monitor outputs with a user-configurable standards converter on both the 12G-SDI Out and 4K HDMI Out, so you can feed a confidence monitor or downstream device at any required format independent of your streaming standard.
- ETHERNET + 5G/4G MOBILE WITH AUTO-FAILOVER – Connect via Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000BASE-T) or tether a smartphone via USB-C for mobile data, with automatic switchover between connections — ensuring your stream stays on air even if the primary internet connection drops.
- CLOSED CAPTIONS, TIMECODE & REST API – Supports embedding CEA-608 and CEA-708 closed captions in live RTMP streams, source timecode over RTMP and SRT, and offers a REST API over Ethernet for external HTTP control — ideal for broadcast automation and accessibility-compliant workflows.
Stopping the channel changes it to idle, but may not eliminate all charges. AWS documents idle-channel charges for its inputs and outputs. Idle push inputs can also be charged whether unattached or attached to a stopped channel; idle pull inputs do not incur an idle charge. Account for resources left configured between broadcasts.
MediaLive processing versus a full YouTube live-streaming bill
The calculator should make clear whether you are looking at a MediaLive-only estimate or a full architecture estimate. A YouTube delivery workflow may involve other AWS services and applicable delivery, packaging, or transfer charges; include them when estimating the total system cost. AWS’s pricing page links to a calculator for MediaLive and architecture costs and cautions that other charges may apply.
Rank #4
- ⭐【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265 /H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 4K UHD (3840x2160) video input and output, with a maximum frame rate of 30fps at 4K resolution and up to 120fps at 2K and lower resolutions, delivering a smooth and detailed visual experience. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI ultra HD video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and 4K ultra HD content transmission.
- ⭐【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), ONVIF, FLV, WebRTC, TRTC, ICECAST, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- ⭐【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- ⭐【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- ⭐【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
The supplied AWS pricing material does not establish a special MediaLive processing rate for YouTube as the destination. It also does not establish that audience size changes MediaLive input/output processing rates. Treat delivery and distribution costs elsewhere in the architecture as separate items rather than adding an unsupported audience-based MediaLive multiplier.
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| Calculator item | Record for your channel |
|---|---|
| Region | AWS region selected in the calculator |
| Channel class | Single-pipeline or standard |
| Inputs | Count, type, codec, bitrate, and resolution for each input |
| Outputs | Count, codec, bitrate, resolution, and frame rate for each rendition |
| Add-ons | Each enabled feature, such as advanced audio or motion graphics |
| Running duration | Expected started hours per month; for continuous operation, use your expected monthly hours |
| Idle resources | Inputs and outputs left configured while the channel is stopped; identify push versus pull inputs |
| Other architecture costs | Applicable data transfer and other AWS service charges |
| Estimate scope | MediaLive-only subtotal or full architecture total |
Once the calculator gives a monthly on-demand subtotal for your assumptions, multiply it by 12 for an annualized comparison. Keep the estimate labeled with its region, channel class, configuration, running hours, and scope so it is not mistaken for a general MediaLive monthly price.
Best Value
- ⭐【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265/H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 1920x1080 resolution input and output, achieving 60fps high-definition presentation with realistic and delicate color reproduction and lossless detail. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI high-definition video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and high-definition content transmission.
- ⭐【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), ONVIF, FLV, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- ⭐【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- ⭐【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- ⭐【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
When a managed cloud loop may fit better
If the goal is simply to keep uploaded videos looping as a YouTube live stream, rather than to build and price an AWS media architecture, StreamNeo is a separate option to consider. It runs from the cloud, so your computer and home connection do not need to stay on; each slot supports uploaded video up to 4K 60fps as made, at one flat price per slot. It automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream.
To use it, upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo is for YouTube and uploaded videos; it does not stream from a camera. Its first day is free with no card, one free day per account. See StreamNeo for details.
Quick Recap
Or let it run in the cloud
- Upload your recording or create a playlist, add the YouTube stream key, and go live.
- Nothing has to stay on at home; the stream runs from the cloud.
- Any quality up to 4K 60fps streams as uploaded at one price per slot.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Start your free StreamNeo day.
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.
