LiveSplit review
A free, open-source timer with splits, race tools, and community-extensible layouts.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
LiveSplit is a speedrun timer for runners who want more than basic split timing. It combines run comparisons, customizable layouts, leaderboard tools, and race support, with a free, open-source model. Its desktop release is Windows-oriented, while LiveSplit One is the web-based, multiplatform version. That makes it a fit for solo runners and small communities looking for a timer that can adapt to different games and streaming layouts.
Its feature depth centers on timing and run management. Automatic game-time reading and auto-splitting are available where supported, and timing adjustments can be synchronized to an atomic clock. Runners can compare against multiple references, including Sum of Best and averages, then rearrange layout components and use dynamic resizing for streaming. Downloadable and user-developed components extend the timer, while internal server control is available through named pipe, TCP/IP, or WebSocket. The breadth is useful for runners who want to tailor their display or workflow, though the automatic features depend on game support.
The ecosystem covers Speedrun.com leaderboard browsing, split downloads, and run submission, plus race support for SpeedRunsLive and racetime.gg. Twitch, X (Twitter), Bluesky, and Imgur are also listed integrations. The free open-source model avoids a paid-tier choice, but support is community- and documentation-based. Choose LiveSplit if you want a configurable timer with leaderboard and race tools; runners who need desktop support beyond Windows or game-specific auto-splitting in every title should weigh those constraints before choosing it.
LiveSplit pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Connects with Speedrun.com to browse leaderboards, download splits, and submit runs
- Supports automatic game-time reading and auto-splitting when available
- Offers customizable layouts, race support, and downloadable or user-developed components
- Where it doesn't
- The desktop release is Windows-oriented; the web version is a separate variant
- Automatic splitting depends on availability for the game
- Support is through community and documentation
LiveSplit fact sheet, pricing and score →
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