Recommended Free Tools
XSplit Broadcaster 4.3 introduced four headline changes: the Layout Wizard, a refreshed Sources menu, customizable lower thirds, and a customizable background source. It launched on March 1, 2022, so treat these as features of that historical release—not a complete guide to the current version. XSplit’s official release index shows releases after 4.3; check the current release notes if you need instructions for today’s interface. [XSplit’s 4.3 announcement; release index]
What’s new in XSplit Broadcaster 4.3?
XSplit’s March 1, 2022 announcement highlights four changes. The announcement was updated May 26, 2025, but its feature list describes the 4.3 release.
- Layout Wizard: A guided way to set up a scene with a camera, another source, and a background.
- Refreshed Sources menu: The menu for adding sources was overhauled. The announcement does not detail its exact controls or menu paths.
- Customizable lower thirds: Add a lower-third template and customize it. XSplit describes the process as taking a few clicks, but does not document the individual controls in the announcement.
- Customizable background source: Use an image or add your own background. XSplit says the background source prevents other sources from appearing behind it.
XSplit’s announcement summarizes the background change this way: “Using a background source now means you never have to worry about any other sources going behind your background!” The release also included bug fixes and improvements, which the announcement does not enumerate. [XSplit’s 4.3 announcement]
How do I build a scene?
XSplit’s current getting-started guide describes two ways to create a scene: use the Layout Wizard for a guided setup, or add and arrange sources yourself. These are general Broadcaster instructions, not controls established as exclusive to version 4.3. A scene is a collection of sources in one layout; use the Scene buttons to switch between scenes. Right-click a Scene button to rename it. [XSplit’s getting-started guide]
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Guided setup with Layout Wizard
- Open Layout Wizard from the welcome screen, the top-bar button, or Tools > Layout Wizard.
- Choose a layout.
- Select sources from the source drop-downs. A camera is optional; add the sources your scene needs.
- Finish the wizard to create the scene.
Manual setup with Add Source
- Click Add Source.
- Choose a source type.
- Resize and arrange the source on the canvas.
- Repeat for other sources, then use the Scene buttons to switch or organize layouts.
The wizard is the faster guided route when its layout suits your needs. Manual placement gives you direct control over the arrangement. The getting-started guide says you can set canvas resolution and frame rate before streaming or recording; those become the default basis for stream or recording settings. [XSplit’s getting-started guide]
How do I stream or record?
Start a stream
- Click Stream. This opens the Plugin Store dialog.
- Select a platform and follow its setup wizard to authenticate.
- Choose the desired channel from the Outputs drop-down.
- Click Stream to start. Some platforms display a pre-stream dialog first.
Record a video
- Confirm which canvas the Record button will capture.
- Click Record.
These steps come from XSplit’s general getting-started guide; platform setup and any pre-stream dialog may vary by selected output. [XSplit’s getting-started guide]
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What should I know about versions, Windows, and licenses?
XSplit’s FAQ page, dated 2022, says Broadcaster supports Windows 7 and higher, states that there were no plans for a macOS version, and warns that users running Windows through Boot Camp may encounter issues. Those are dated statements, not reliable confirmation of current system requirements or present platform availability. Check XSplit’s current requirements before installing. [XSplit’s Broadcaster FAQ]
The same 2022 FAQ describes restrictions on the free license: a watermark, no commercial use, a four-scene limit, no simultaneous broadcasting to multiple platforms, and exclusion of features including Audio Source, Local Streaming, Stream Delay, Source Transitions, Projector, Preview Editor, Audio Mix Preview, and Skype Video Camera. It says a Premium or Premium Bundle license removes the watermark. Licensing terms can change, so verify the current licensing page before deciding which plan fits your use. [XSplit’s Broadcaster FAQ]
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Are VST3 plugins supported?
The 2022 FAQ says Broadcaster 4.2 and later supports VST3 plugins, while cautioning that not every plugin works. It lists RoughRider3, BX CleanSweep V2, MJUCjr, SPL De-Verb Plus, TDR Nova, Valhalla Supermassive, and TAL-Reverb 4 as known to work when that FAQ was updated. Treat this as a dated compatibility list, not a current guarantee; check the plugin maker’s and XSplit’s latest guidance before relying on a particular plugin. [XSplit’s Broadcaster FAQ]
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
XSplit Broadcaster is for building and controlling scenes on a Windows PC; it is not the same as a service that keeps uploaded video streaming after your computer is off. For a YouTube channel that should loop uploaded videos around the clock, StreamNeo runs the stream in the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on. It streams uploaded videos to YouTube, not from a camera, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Each slot streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price, with 10 GB storage per slot (pooled across active slots), looping and playlists, and StreamNeo team support. The first day is free with no card; one free day is available per account. Plans use the same product and vary by duration. The monthly option is $9.99 per month.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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.
Start your free day with StreamNeo.
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.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →

