What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
For most PC creators, OBS Studio is the flexible free encoder; pair it with Restream if you want a documented free two-destination cloud relay. Streamlabs is worth considering if you want its ecosystem or free one-horizontal-plus-one-vertical Dual Output. These tools solve different parts of multistreaming: an encoder creates your video feed, while a relay or multi-output feature sends it to multiple destinations.
The right choice depends on how many platforms you need, which account types those platforms require, and whether you want your PC to upload one feed or handle multiple outputs. The feature and plan details below come from vendor documentation; they are not independent performance-test results.
What multistreaming software does on a PC
A typical PC multistream setup has two parts. An encoder such as OBS Studio captures and produces the video and audio. A distribution service or multi-output feature then delivers that stream to more than one destination.
- Cloud relay: Your PC uploads one stream to a service, which forwards it to multiple platforms. Streamlabs describes its cloud Multistream this way; that is a vendor description, not an independent benchmark.
- Multiple local outputs: Your PC sends separate outputs to destinations. That can require more encoding and upload capacity than sending one feed to a cloud relay.
So “best software” may mean the best encoder, relay, or all-in-one workflow. OBS Studio, Restream, and Streamlabs are not interchangeable in every setup.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Best options for PC multistreaming
1. OBS Studio: best free encoder foundation
OBS Studio is a free, open-source encoder for Windows, macOS, and Linux, according to Restream’s guide. It suits creators who want a configurable desktop base and are comfortable connecting it to a relay or using another supported workflow. OBS by itself is not the same thing as a cloud relay: you still need a way to distribute the feed to multiple platforms.
2. Restream: best documented free cloud-relay option for two destinations
Restream’s help page, dated February 9, 2026, says its free plan includes two channels, third-party software such as OBS, multi-chat, analytics, and events. The free plan includes Restream branding. Restream’s pricing FAQ describes the offer as choosing two from more than 30 social channels; that channel count is Restream’s statement, not a guarantee that every account type or destination feature is available on the free plan.
Rank #2
- 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.
According to the same help page, paid plans are required for three or more channels, Facebook Pages or Groups, and custom RTMP destinations. Paid tiers remove the watermark and unlock Studio Full HD. Check the live plan details before subscribing because feature limits and pricing can change.
3. Streamlabs: best if you want its ecosystem or one horizontal and one vertical output free
Streamlabs says its cloud Multistream can be used with Streamlabs Desktop, an OBS plugin, or other streaming software through dashboard RTMP credentials. Its cloud service takes one PC stream and forwards it to multiple platforms, according to Streamlabs.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchRank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Streamlabs lists free Dual Output for one horizontal and one vertical destination. Broader Multistream is an Ultra feature. Its listed destinations include Twitch, YouTube, TikTok, Kick, Facebook, Instagram, Patreon, X, and custom RTMP, but support can differ by feature and account type. Verify compatibility for the exact destination and account you plan to use.
4. XSplit and vMix: encoder choices, not established winners here
Restream lists XSplit and vMix among the streaming software options that can connect to its service. The available documentation does not establish a head-to-head comparison of their multistream features or prices, so choose between them only after checking their current capabilities and how they fit your workflow.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Compare options by the limits that matter
| Option | Role | Documented free capability | Important limits to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| OBS Studio | Desktop encoder | Free, open-source software; Windows, macOS, and Linux support is listed by Restream. | It is an encoder, not by itself a cloud relay. You need a distribution method for multiple destinations. |
| Restream | Cloud relay compatible with third-party software such as OBS | Restream says the free plan supports two channels and includes multi-chat, analytics, and events; branding is included. | Three or more channels, Facebook Pages/Groups, and custom RTMP require paid plans, according to its February 9, 2026 help page. Paid tiers remove the watermark and unlock Studio Full HD. |
| Streamlabs | Cloud relay and integrated desktop workflow | Free Dual Output supports one horizontal and one vertical destination. | Broader Multistream is an Ultra feature. Destination support varies by feature and account type. |
| XSplit or vMix | Encoder choices that Restream lists as compatible options | Not stated in the cited Restream guide. | The available documentation does not establish comparative multistream features or prices. |
How to choose for your setup
Choose based on destination count and account type
List the exact platforms you want to reach, how many destinations you need, and whether each is a profile, Page, Group, or custom RTMP endpoint. A two-channel free allowance does not automatically mean every destination type is included. Restream specifically places Facebook Pages/Groups and custom RTMP behind paid plans; Streamlabs says destination support varies by feature and account type.
Decide where the distribution work should happen
A cloud relay is appealing if you want your PC to upload one feed rather than maintain separate outputs. Local multi-output can add encoding and upload work on the PC and network. Streamlabs describes that trade-off from its product perspective; the documentation here does not provide independent bandwidth or performance measurements.
Recommended Free Tools
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Match the tool to your existing workflow
- For a configurable, free desktop encoder, start with OBS Studio and add a relay if you need cloud distribution.
- If you already use OBS and need two destinations, Restream documents a free third-party-software workflow, with branding and plan limits to consider.
- If you want Streamlabs’ desktop/plugin/dashboard routes or specifically need one horizontal plus one vertical destination, check whether Dual Output meets your needs before considering Ultra.
- If considering XSplit or vMix, verify their current feature set and pricing directly; the available material only establishes them as encoder choices for a relay workflow.
Check the full plan, not just the headline tier
Before paying, confirm destination caps, account-type support, branding or watermark behavior, HD limits, and whether studio or guest features are included. The documented Restream details include a watermark on free and its removal on paid tiers, plus Studio Full HD on paid tiers. For Streamlabs, distinguish free Dual Output from Ultra’s broader Multistream.
When StreamNeo is a different kind of solution
StreamNeo is not a multistreaming relay for sending a PC feed to several social platforms. It is for a different job: keeping uploaded videos live on one YouTube channel around the clock. If that is what you need rather than simultaneous distribution to multiple platforms, StreamNeo runs the loop in the cloud so your computer does not have to stay on. See StreamNeo.
Or let it run in the cloud
Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; uploaded video streams at its original quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot. StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly is $9.99 per month.
Quick Recap
Start your free StreamNeo day.
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.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches
