Effi gives you two ways to go live: with our browser-based studio or with your preferred streaming software (OBS, Wirecast, vMix). Some of you may already understand the difference between these options and know exactly which is right for you. If you fall into that category, awesome! But, if you're not super clear on either of these options or which is right for you, not to worry—this article is for you. Hopefully, by the end of it, you'll have all the knowledge you need to make the right choice for you and your business.
Let's start by talking a little about each of these options, what they offer, and where they fall short.
Effi's Browser-Based Studio
Effi's browser-based livestreaming studio allows you to go build, design, and produce your entire broadcast directly from your web browser.
Here are some benefits:
User-friendly: Our studio is designed to make it easier forever beginners or less-technical users to be able to go create and produce livestreams.
No installation required: Since everything is done off a browser, there is no need to download anything. All you need is a good internet connection, a computer, and the browser of your choosing.
Collaboration: Being web-based means you can share events amongst your team members and have help during production.
📝 Regardless of how you choose to stream, everything Effi is completely collaborative and easy to share amongst your team. So you can co-create, design, and manage events together.
Streaming Software
Some example of streaming software are OBS, Wirecast, and vMix. You may have heard these names before. Unlike a browser-based studio, these are standalone applications you download onto your computer.
Here are some benefits:
Advanced audio/visual tools: These applications are built not only built to handle a lot of audio and visual equipment at once, but they also come equipped with tools for things like scene transitions and audio mixing.
Integration with other tools: Streaming software can integrate with other commonly used streaming tools like stream decks and switchers.
Which one should you choose?
The choice between Effi's browser-based livestreaming studio and streaming software depends on your needs, experience level, and the type of production you're hosting.
Things to consider:
Streaming software requires a lot of technical know-how, so if you are newer to live streaming or need something more user-friendly, you should opt for the studio option.
If you are hosting a large production, like in a studio with multiple cameras, mics, lights, and other equipment that needs to be managed, you might need more control over your stream and more power than a browser-based studio can provide. In that case, you should probably opt for the streaming software option that Effi provides.
The great news is that no matter which option you choose, you still have complete access to all of Effi's features. Yes, you read that correctly. Regardless of whether you go with the studio or streaming software, you'll still be able to simulcast to all your social platforms, use all of Effi's interactive elements, and even access our robust analytics. So don't worry about missing out on anything; just make the choice that's right for you and your brand.