FFsplit review
A free Windows encoder for multi-source compositing, RTMP streaming, and local recording.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
FFsplit is a free Windows desktop utility for creating live video feeds from multiple sources. It is suited to creators, presenters, and streamers who need screen or window capture, camera and microphone input, overlays, picture-in-picture layers, and local recording in one application. The software can composite these elements into a live feed, stream through FFmpeg, and provide the result as a webcam source for compatible applications.
Its strongest area is source composition. FFsplit supports multiple video inputs, image and text layers, audio and microphone capture, and picture-in-picture with multiple layers. That makes it a practical fit for layouts that combine a screen, camera, supporting graphics, and text. Simultaneous streaming and recording adds flexibility for users who want a local copy while broadcasting. The DirectShow webcam output also gives the composed feed a second use beyond livestreaming, while screen and window capture cover common desktop production needs.
The main constraint is platform and protocol scope. FFsplit runs on Windows, and its documented streaming output is RTMP, so it is better suited to workflows built around that protocol than to users seeking broader protocol coverage. The project is not in active development, and the latest listed download is FFsplit 0.7.0 Test Build 26. Choose FFsplit if free Windows software with layered composition, RTMP streaming, and local recording matches your workflow. Choose another encoder if ongoing development, wider platform support, or additional output protocols are central requirements.
FFsplit pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Composites multiple video, image, text, and audio sources
- Streams and records simultaneously, with local recording support
- Exposes the finished feed as a DirectShow webcam source
- Where it doesn't
- Runs only on Windows
- Documented output protocol is limited to RTMP
- The project is not in active development
FFsplit fact sheet, pricing and score →
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update