Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →To set up the Streamlabs Plugin in OBS Studio, install Streamlabs’ Windows plugin, open OBS, sign in or connect an account through the onboarding window, then add and test the widgets you want. Streamlabs’ quick-start guide specifies Windows and OBS Studio 28.0.0 or later; the plugin is not the same application as Streamlabs Desktop.
Check compatibility before installing
- Operating system: Windows. Streamlabs’ quick-start guide identifies the plugin as Windows-only.
- OBS version: OBS Studio 28.0.0 or later.
- What you need: An existing OBS Studio installation and a Streamlabs ID or account for the sign-in/onboarding flow. The setup guide does not specify a particular computer model or peripheral requirement.
Get the installer and confirm current availability on the Streamlabs Plugin for OBS page. The plugin keeps selected Streamlabs tools in an OBS workflow; it does not turn OBS into Streamlabs Desktop.
Install the plugin and connect Streamlabs
- Download and run the plugin installer. Use Streamlabs’ plugin page and launch the installer. It is documented to locate the OBS Studio folder and add the plugin files.
- Open OBS Studio. After installation, start OBS. The Streamlabs onboarding window should appear.
- Sign in or connect an account. Choose Log In & Get Started. Follow the prompts to sign in to or create a Streamlabs ID, or connect a preferred streaming platform, then return to OBS.
- Work through onboarding. Streamlabs may guide you through overlays, tipping, Cloudbot, and plan selection. These are onboarding choices, not prerequisites for using every widget. If adding an overlay prompts you to restart OBS, save your work and restart.
If no onboarding prompt or Streamlabs menu appears, check that the installer targeted the OBS Studio folder and that your OBS version meets the documented minimum. Close and reopen OBS after installation. If the menu remains absent, reinstall from the official plugin page and check that you are using Windows.
Add and test widgets in OBS
Add a widget
- In OBS, open Streamlabs from the top menu and choose Widgets.
- Find the widget you want and click + Add.
- In the OBS Sources list, move the Streamlabs widget source above gameplay or other sources that could cover it. Sources higher in the list appear in front of lower ones.
Test alerts
- Open Streamlabs > Widgets and choose Test Events.
- Select a platform, hover over the alert, and click it to trigger a test event.
- Check the OBS preview and confirm the alert is visible. If it is hidden, move its source above the source covering it.
Streamlabs’ alert instructions also describe adding Alert Box from Streamlabs > Widgets > + Add. A test confirms the alert can display in your scene; it does not verify that every platform account or live-event trigger is configured correctly.
#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.
Customize widgets, labels, and OBS docks
Edit widget settings
Widget customization is not performed inside the plugin. In the plugin’s widget list, click the widget’s Settings gear; its settings page opens in a browser window. Make the changes there, then return to OBS to review the scene.
Add Stream Labels
- Choose Streamlabs > Stream Labels > Add a Stream Label.
- Select the label you want. To use it in another scene, choose the relevant scene under Add to Scene.
- Use the label’s three-dot menu to edit or delete it. If you delete a label from the scene, remove its source manually in OBS if it is still listed.
Show the Activity Feed and Chat docks
In OBS, open Docks and enable Streamlabs Activity Feed and Streamlabs Chat. If those entries are missing, choose Streamlabs > Settings > Danger Zone > Restore Plugin Docks.
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.
If you prefer not to install the plugin
Streamlabs also documents a plugin-free route for widgets: copy a widget URL from the Streamlabs dashboard and add it in OBS as a Browser Source. This is an alternative way to place a widget, not a required plugin setup step. Follow Streamlabs’ instructions for locating and using widget URLs.
What the plugin includes—and what it does not
The plugin is for creators who want Streamlabs tools in an existing OBS Studio workflow. Streamlabs Desktop is a separate all-in-one application. Streamlabs says the plugin is free to download and use; server-side multistreaming and premium overlays require Streamlabs Ultra, according to its plugin page. Streamlabs’ plugin guide also identifies Shared Storage, Dual Output, and Collab Cam as capabilities not included in the plugin and directs users seeking them toward Streamlabs Desktop. Feature and plan availability can change, so check Streamlabs’ current product information before choosing a plan.
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsRank #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.
Or let it run in the cloud
The Streamlabs plugin adds tools to OBS; it is not a service for keeping a YouTube stream running after your computer shuts down. If your goal is to keep uploaded videos playing as a 24/7 YouTube stream, StreamNeo is a separate cloud option: upload your video or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. The cloud keeps it running without leaving a computer or home connection on.
- Uploaded video streams as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot, with no re-encode or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card, once per account.
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
See StreamNeo for details, or start your free first day.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Streamlabs Plugin on macOS?
No. Streamlabs’ quick-start guide lists the plugin as Windows-only.
Do I need Streamlabs Desktop to use the plugin?
No. The plugin is designed to add Streamlabs tools to an existing OBS Studio workflow; Streamlabs Desktop is a separate application.
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.
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.
