!["[New] Live Streaming Duel Pitting OBS Against ShadowGL"](https://www.lifewire.com/thmb/dXcXyOjh5f14j9Nzv8d0qtr4jHE=/400x300/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-850120538-4d2af54c23a641c8a5f2e00ef7a9aa37.jpg)
"[New] Live Streaming Duel Pitting OBS Against ShadowGL"
![](/images/site-logo.png)
Live Streaming Duel: Pitting OBS Against ShadowGL
If you are an avid gamer and you are not recording your gameplay and uploading on online platforms, you are missing out on the trend. Gamers are uploading their gameplay on video streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube and earning followers, fame as well as money. No matter which game you play on your computer, you should record it. Thereafter, you can make it interesting with editing and voiceover and upload on video streaming and social media platforms.
Primarily, you will need a gameplay recording software and there is no dearth of gameplay and screen recording software. The two most popular free gameplay recorders are OBS Studio and ShadowPlay. In order to help you choose OBS or ShadowPlay, we have provided you with a complete comparison of ShadowPlay vs OBS recording software. Go through all the points minutely and understand their differences and pick the perfect one for recording your gameplay.
Part 1. Key Features of OBS and ShadowPlay
OBS and ShadowPlay are both completely free to use for recording your gameplay as well as your capturing desktop screen. OBS is open-source software and it has a cross-platform structure which is why it supports all computer operating systems. It is popular among gamers for live streaming on Twitch and YouTube.
ShadowPlay comes from Nvidia which is the largest manufacturer for GPU. That is why gamers who prefer Nvidia GPU, they have a special preference for ShadowPlay. Here are the key features of OBS and ShadowPlay you should be aware of.
OBS Studio
Screen Capture - You can capture high-quality gameplay when you play games on your computer as well as on a gaming console. You can tweak the parameters on video quality so that you can get the recording just like you want.
Webcam Capture - OBS lets you add webcam as an overlay so that you can record your gameplay as well as show your reaction so that the recording is more interactive and engaging. You can also use green screen setup to make the video more professional and eye-catching.
Better Audio - You can record your game sound as well as your voice from external mic. This is useful for voiceover and live commentary to make the video interesting and showcase your personality traits verbally. There are also audio filters, audio mixers, and audio effects available to apply.
Advanced Editor - The built-in editing software allows performing different post-recording tasks like sharpening, cropping, and color correction. It has advanced filters that enable Chroma keying, image masking, and color correction.
Easy Switching - It comes with a one-click solution for switching between transitions and scenes. The tool can be perfect for going back and forth between games and devices. You can also add multiple screens and audio sources as required.
Most importantly, you can live stream your gameplay on almost any online video streaming platform.
Nvidia ShadowPlay
Gameplay Capture - ShadowPlay lets you record gameplay at 8K with 30FPS. This is unmatched by any free video recording software. You can also record gameplay at 4K HDR with 60FPS. It comes with hardware acceleration to ensure the performance does not get affected while recording in the background.
Instant Replay - ShadowPlay keeps recording in the background and therefore, if something important has happened in the game, you can get the last 30 seconds of instant replay clip and you can share it anywhere you want. This is highly useful to share short clips on social media platforms.
ShadowPlay Highlights - The feature will automatically record the best gaming moments and create a perfect highlight video. This is useful when you want to upload the best parts of the gameplay rather than the entire part.
Screenshots - ShadowPlay lets you capture 8K screenshots of your game that you can use as thumbnails for your videos as well as put them up on social media platforms.
GIF Creator - With ShadowPlay, you don’t have to leave the game to create GIFs. You can create high-quality GIFs of duration 15 seconds. You can also add text to the GIFs and share anything you want.
Just like OBS, ShadowPlay enables you to broadcast gameplay in real-time on YouTube Live, Twitch, and Facebook Live.
Part 2. Comparison ShadowPlay vs OBS
Here are the key points of differences between OBS and ShadowPlay that will help you decide between OBS or ShadowPlay.
ShadowPlay vs OBS Recording:
While recording, OBS allows faster processing of the recorded video files. Besides, it can compress the file size during the encoding process so that the recorded video files take relatively less space. This makes it ideal for longer sessions of gameplay recording. However, in the process, OBS can reduce the frame rate significantly, and hence, the video may not be as smooth as you expect it to be. Therefore, OBS is suitable for regular game recording where not much compression is required.
On the contrary, ShadowPlay does not reduce the file size or frame rate, and hence, it is a great choice for high-end games where you need the recorded to be as smooth as possible. However, ShadowPlay requires more space on the hard drive. When you upload on video streaming platforms, there will be some automatic compression. Therefore, the less compression you do during your encoding phase, the better will be the output.
ShadowPlay vs OBS Performance:
OBS uses significant CPU power and resources. This is one of the reasons why it reduces the frame rate while recording to use less CPU resources. In fact, it can affect the game performance if you are playing and recording a high-end game. However, you can customize various configuration parameters to reduce its burden on CPU performance.
ShadowPlay does not affect the CPU performance as it comes with hardware acceleration. It supports higher frame rates for high-end games as well. If at all, it can bring about 5%-10% effect on CPU performance which is almost ignorable in comparison to OBS.
ShadowPlay vs OBS File Format:
OBS consumes less space for recorded videos. It compresses the format which can drastically reduce the output file size. The best thing about OBS is that it comes with the NVENC hardware encoded chip that allows choosing from different supported file formats.
On the contrary, ShadowPlay supports MP4 formats by default which makes it require more space. It uses codec. MP4 file format is the most popular video file format that you can play across all media players and upload on online platforms.
ShadowPlay vs OBS Live Streaming:
You cannot live stream as well as record on ShadowPlay. This is a major drawback that OBS has overcome. That is why most gamers prefer OBS Studio for live streaming as they can record the gaming session for future reference. If you want to just broadcast your gameplay, ShadowPlay is good enough. But if you want to have multiple scenes and overlay adjustments in live streaming, OBS is the best choice.
ShadowPlay vs OBS Editing:
OBS offers better editing options thanks to its built-in editor. Starting customizable transitions to real-time editing before broadcasting, OBS has different editing scopes tailor-made for gamers. On the contrary, ShadowPlay has very limited editing options as the main focus is on recording only. But if we talk about true video editing, both applications are still underdeveloped on this front.
Part 3. Alternative Way To Record Games
If you are looking for a premium gameplay recording software, we recommend Wondershare Filmora. Filmora is a perfect combination of screen recorder and professional video editor. In comparison to OBS or ShadowPlay, Filmora has better features and options in terms of editing. You can record your gameplay as well as webcam in overlay for professional recording. You can add video effects as well as audio effects to make the video more appealing. Here are the steps to record gameplay with Filmora.
For Win 7 or later (64-bit)
For macOS 10.12 or later
Step 1: Download and install Wondershare Filmora. Open Filmora and click on PC Screen option to record your gameplay.
Step 2: Select the recording screen size which is likely to be full screen for gaming. You can select the microphone if you want to record your voice for live commentary. Besides, turn on Record the Camera Stream option if you want your face video to be present as an overlay.
Step 3: To start recording, click on Record button. You will get a few buffer seconds to switch to your game after which recording will start automatically.
You can press F9 key to stop recording. You can edit the recorded gameplay and export in any desired file format.
Conclusion
If you want to record high-end games, ShadowPlay is ideal as it does not affect game performance as well as does not reduce frame rate. For not so high-end games, OBS does the job perfectly. OBS is particularly useful when you want to live stream as well as record your gameplay. If you are looking for a premium software and a better alternative, Wondershare Filmora is the perfect choice.
For macOS 10.12 or later
Step 1: Download and install Wondershare Filmora. Open Filmora and click on PC Screen option to record your gameplay.
Step 2: Select the recording screen size which is likely to be full screen for gaming. You can select the microphone if you want to record your voice for live commentary. Besides, turn on Record the Camera Stream option if you want your face video to be present as an overlay.
Step 3: To start recording, click on Record button. You will get a few buffer seconds to switch to your game after which recording will start automatically.
You can press F9 key to stop recording. You can edit the recorded gameplay and export in any desired file format.
Conclusion
If you want to record high-end games, ShadowPlay is ideal as it does not affect game performance as well as does not reduce frame rate. For not so high-end games, OBS does the job perfectly. OBS is particularly useful when you want to live stream as well as record your gameplay. If you are looking for a premium software and a better alternative, Wondershare Filmora is the perfect choice.
For macOS 10.12 or later
Step 1: Download and install Wondershare Filmora. Open Filmora and click on PC Screen option to record your gameplay.
Step 2: Select the recording screen size which is likely to be full screen for gaming. You can select the microphone if you want to record your voice for live commentary. Besides, turn on Record the Camera Stream option if you want your face video to be present as an overlay.
Step 3: To start recording, click on Record button. You will get a few buffer seconds to switch to your game after which recording will start automatically.
You can press F9 key to stop recording. You can edit the recorded gameplay and export in any desired file format.
Conclusion
If you want to record high-end games, ShadowPlay is ideal as it does not affect game performance as well as does not reduce frame rate. For not so high-end games, OBS does the job perfectly. OBS is particularly useful when you want to live stream as well as record your gameplay. If you are looking for a premium software and a better alternative, Wondershare Filmora is the perfect choice.
For macOS 10.12 or later
Step 1: Download and install Wondershare Filmora. Open Filmora and click on PC Screen option to record your gameplay.
Step 2: Select the recording screen size which is likely to be full screen for gaming. You can select the microphone if you want to record your voice for live commentary. Besides, turn on Record the Camera Stream option if you want your face video to be present as an overlay.
Step 3: To start recording, click on Record button. You will get a few buffer seconds to switch to your game after which recording will start automatically.
You can press F9 key to stop recording. You can edit the recorded gameplay and export in any desired file format.
Conclusion
If you want to record high-end games, ShadowPlay is ideal as it does not affect game performance as well as does not reduce frame rate. For not so high-end games, OBS does the job perfectly. OBS is particularly useful when you want to live stream as well as record your gameplay. If you are looking for a premium software and a better alternative, Wondershare Filmora is the perfect choice.
Also read:
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved Expert Recommendations Prime Apps for Mac Video Recording\""
- "Unlocking the Art of Extended Frame Shooting"
- "\"[Updated] Secrets Unveiled Complete Guide to Live TV Recording via Windows PCs for 2024\""
- "\"[New] Ultimate Kid-Friendly Driving Delights\""
- "[Updated] Guides to Quick Webinar Recording with macOS and Windows for 2024"
- "\"[New] Boost Your Video Skills Using Adobe Connect for Editing Techniques for 2024\""
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved Android's Best-Rated 10 Ultimate Game Boy Advance Simulators\""
- "\"In 2024, Quick Start Guide Dell's Simple Screen Recording Methods\""
- "[Updated] Revolutionary Methods for iPad Audio Logging for 2024"
- "\"[Updated] 2024 Approved Loom Fabricate Crafting Your Video Threads\""
- "[New] In 2024, Accelerate Your Retro Play with Best Ps2 Android Emulators"
- "\"[Updated] 2024 Approved Enhance Visuals with Better OBS Settings\""
- "\"2024 Approved Techniques for Efficient Zoom Meeting Recordings\""
- "\"[Updated] 2024 Approved Quick Tips for High-Quality Audio Recordings on Your iMac\""
- "\"In 2024, Capturing Screen Content via Built-In Recorders in the Mate and P Series.\""
- "\"[Updated] 2024 Approved Top Techniques for Capturing Virtual Reality Gaming\""
- "\"[Updated] Expert Evaluation Chilled Delights Playback Tools for 2024\""
- "[Updated] In 2024, Countdown Configuration in OBS for Streamers and Filmmakers"
- "[Updated] Top Incredible Browser Game Hacks"
- "\"[New] Best Free Non-Intrusive Android Screen Recorders\""
- "\"[New] OBS Studio Vs. Bandicam A Comprehensive Performance Review\""
- "In 2024, Discovering Linux's Top Screenshots Tools"
- "Smooth Steam Gaming Recordings Guide for 2024"
- "[Updated] In 2024, Music Device Innovations Spotlighted"
- "\"Pro-Level Screen Capture Strategies for Professionals for 2024\""
- "Secure Total Visual Display"
- "\"[Updated] In 2024, No Price Tag On Adventure Top 10 Gratuitous Online RPGs\""
- "\"In 2024, Windows 10 Screen Grabber Roundup - Top 15\""
- "\"Cutting-Edge Webcam Utilization at Home for 2024\""
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved Superior Zero Price Switch Emulators\""
- "Dissecting SplitCam's Stand in Video Technology"
- "\"[Updated] In 2024, Best of the Best Android Calls with More Than Just Two\""
- "\"Digital Heroes' Choice Top 10 Astonishing Adventure Games\""
- "\"[New] In 2024, FlameGrab Firefox Add-Ons\""
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved Which Recording Tool Wins? - A Bandicam Vs. Camtasia Comparison\""
- "\"[New] Best Price-to-Performance Tablets with Gaming Capabilities for 2024\""
- "[New] In 2024, PixelPlay Review System"
- "\"[New] In 2024, Single-Platform Focus Disabling Cross-Play for Personal Zen\""
- "\"[New] Streamline Your Filming Process - The Ultimate Logitech Camera Tutorials\""
- "Unveiling the Leaders in Webinar Tech for 2024"
- "In 2024, The Sound Sleuth's Guide to Recording Streaming Media"
- How to Recover Apple iPhone 14 Data From iOS iTunes? | Dr.fone
- New 2024 Approved Mastering Audio Balance in DaVinci Resolve A Step-by-Step Guide
- Updated Maximizing Creativity with Pexels.com A Closer Look at Image Licensing
- In 2024, Apple iPhone 8 Plus iCloud Activation Lock Bypass
- In 2024, Unbiased Review Top 12 Audio Converters on the Market
- Navigating Video Editing Incorporating Dubbing Techniques in Filmora
- New In 2024, Animated Excellence The Best Stop Motion Software for Mac and PC
- How To Restore a Bricked Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G Back to Operation | Dr.fone
- 2024 Approved Unleash Your Creativity 10 Best Vegas Pro Alternatives for Mac (Free & Paid)
- Updated 2024 Approved Find The Finest Tools To Remove Background Noise Online
- In 2024, iPogo will be the new iSpoofer On Realme C55? | Dr.fone
- How Can We Unlock Our Nokia C12 Phone Screen?
- New In 2024, Unleash Your Creativity 10 Top-Rated Android Video Editors
- New 2024 Approved How to Fix Distorted Audio Using Different Methods
- In 2024, A Step-by-Step Guide on Using ADB and Fastboot to Remove FRP Lock on your Infinix Hot 40 Pro
- In 2024, How To Fix OEM Unlock Missing on Oppo Reno 11 5G?
- Top Apps and Online Tools To Track Itel A60 Phone With/Without IMEI Number
- In 2024, How to Transfer from Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max to Samsung Galaxy S20? | Dr.fone
- 2024 Approved Education Animation Is Useful for Parents, Teachers and Students. Check It for You
- 4K Is Getting Popular These Days, While in This Article Introduces Top 10+ Free 4K Video Converters for Windows and Mac in Case that You Have Limited Access to 4K Video Playing for 2024
- Streamlining Audiobook Creation The Ultimate Guide to Authorship in the Digital Age for 2024
- Updated Resonating Titans An Auditory Journey Through Monstrous Realms for 2024
- How To Transfer Messages From Apple iPhone 15 Plus to other iPhone All iOS Versions | Dr.fone
- The Most Useful Tips for Pokemon Go Ultra League On Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro | Dr.fone
- Recover Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max Data From iOS iTunes Backup | Dr.fone
- New Best Free Video Cutters and Joiners for Beginners for 2024
- How to Sign Out of Apple ID On iPhone 8 Plus without Password?
- Does Google Pixel 7a Have Find My Friends? | Dr.fone
- Will iSpoofer update On Nubia Red Magic 9 Pro+ | Dr.fone
- Complete Guide on Unlocking Apple iPhone 6s Plus with a Broken Screen? | Dr.fone
- How to unlock Samsung Galaxy A34 5G
- Possible solutions to restore deleted videos from Realme GT 5
- How to Share/Fake Location on WhatsApp for Poco M6 Pro 5G | Dr.fone
- In 2024, How to Unlock Apple iPhone XS with IMEI Code?
- In 2024, Top IMEI Unlokers for Your Samsung Galaxy A34 5G Phone
- Title: "[New] Live Streaming Duel Pitting OBS Against ShadowGL"
- Author: Agatha
- Created at : 2024-05-18 02:46:38
- Updated at : 2024-05-19 02:46:38
- Link: https://video-screen-grab.techidaily.com/new-live-streaming-duel-pitting-obs-against-shadowgl/
- License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.