The Best Sports Streaming Software
Introduction to Sports Streaming Software
Sports streaming is as simple as ever. A ton of varying software is available now, allowing anyone to put on a competent stream for sporting events. Gone are the days when you had to have a ton of equipment for a small sports stream. You can even push the limits with graphics options, replay, and more. Some of these solutions are free, and some are paid, but they’re all competent software choices. Some are even used by some of the biggest broadcasters and streaming production companies (even the free ones!).
Free Option
OBS (Open Broadcasting Software)
BEST FOR: No budget, single camera streams with basic graphics
Image from the OBS Project website
OBS is an open-source piece of software that was created as a way to stream video games to services such as Twitch and YouTube. It has now taken on some form of catch-all tool for capturing and streaming video for hobbyists and professionals. This makes it one of the best sports streaming software solutions available. It has a bit of a learning curve, but its community is vibrant, with many YouTube tutorials and forum posts that answer most users' questions. This is the only free tool worth mentioning, as most other free streaming software are just variants of the OBS source code - as the code is freely available.
OBS uses a “scene “ system that allows you to layer video, images, text, and browser sources. You can transition between the scenes. If you’re cutting a Multicam show through OBS, a bit of customization needs to be done, but for a one-camera production, some audio, and a scorebug - it’s simple and free.
Note that there is no built-in graphics system besides allowing images and webpages to be overlayed, so it needs to be paired with some sort of graphics system. Many are available, both free and paid. One that works well for a single score bug is Uno Overlays.
If you want your stream to have replay, OBS alone is not a great option. There IS a replay system, but it’s not built for sports whatsoever. Again, this software was built with Twitch streamers in mind, so the replay system is meant to be a one-button push that replays whatever happened in the last few seconds. There are no slo-mo controls or any sort of clip management.
If you’re considering getting a switcher such as an ATEM Mini, OBS is a good way to stream its “webcam” output to a service of your choice—along with any downstream graphics that you might want to put on top of your “upstream” camera cuts.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Free
Powerful
Stable
Active community
A wide array of plugins and extensions
Cons
Steep learning curve
Not built for Multicam switching in a traditional sense
No built-in graphics system
Replay system is basic and finicky
Cost: FREE!
Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux
Paid Option
VMix
Best For: Scalable productions with a budget
Photo from Vmix website
Vmix is a powerful streaming software tool. It’s very similar to OBS in concept, but it’s a bit more built for TV production than video game streaming. This application does everything that OBS does, including so much more. Unlike OBS, it was built with sports streaming in mind, making it much better suited as sports streaming software. It can ingest multiple cameras using a Blackmagic Decklink or similar capture card and switch between them like you’d expect a switcher to work. It has a built-in graphics system and a built-in replay system. It really is a workhorse of production software. It’s been used by independent streamers for virtual events up to sports broadcasts on TV. The latter tend to use Vmix as a utility to play commercial breaks or overlay graphics downstream, but the point is that TV production companies trust it.
There are so many features in this solution that it’s hard to list them all in one blog post, but if you want to build a scalable sports stream, Vmix is probably the best option.
The problems come with the steeper learning curve than OBS and the fact that you need a pretty beefy computer to use all of the features. Basic switching can be done on most entry-level gaming PCs, but you may need to consult with their specs recommendations if you plan to include replay, graphics, and complex scene compositions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Powerful + stable
Built with TV in mind
Graphics system
Replay system
Active community and support
Integrates well with third-party hardware
Cons
Steep learning curve
Powerful computer needed
Price: Starting at $60 and going up to $1200 for all features/subscription plan available ]
Other Considerations
Capture Cards (HDMI and SDI)
When setting up your sports stream, one of the essential pieces of equipment you'll need is a capture card. A capture card takes the video signal from your camera and converts it into a format that your streaming software can use. Essentially, it’s the bridge between your camera and your computer, ensuring that the live footage makes it to your audience in real time.
There are two main types of capture cards: HDMI and SDI. HDMI capture cards are the most common and are usually found in consumer-grade cameras. If you're running a small, single-camera stream, an HDMI capture card like the affordable Elgato models is likely all you need. They’re easy to find, easy to set up, and perfect for most simple streaming setups.
However, you might consider an SDI capture card if you’re working with more advanced equipment or planning a larger production. SDI is typically seen in prosumer and professional cameras and offers a more robust signal that can run up to 300 feet without losing quality—compared to HDMI’s more limited range of around 50 feet. This makes SDI ideal for setups where your camera is far from your streaming workstation. However, for most small-scale streams, SDI's extra cost and complexity aren’t necessary.
Alternatively, you might want to consider using a hardware switcher like the ATEM Mini instead of a capture card, especially if you plan to use multiple cameras. Switchers allow you to connect multiple cameras and easily switch between them during your stream, offering a more professional feel. The ATEM Mini also simplifies control, letting you manage your stream without relying heavily on your computer. However, remember that using a switcher can make certain features, like replay, more challenging to implement. While a switcher might reduce costs and simplify your workflow, it could limit your ability to do things like slow-motion replays, which may require more specialized software and equipment, such as a router.
Control Surface Hardware – Stream Deck
Investing in a control surface like the Elgato Stream Deck can be incredibly beneficial for further streamlining. This device allows you to assign actions—such as switching scenes, triggering graphics, or even starting and stopping your stream—to customizable buttons. Each button has an LCD screen, so you can label it with icons or text that make sense for your setup, adding another layer of efficiency to your production. The Stream Deck integrates seamlessly with software like OBS and vMix, making it easy to manage complex setups with just a button press.
Beyond Software
Video streaming is more than just using the right tools—it's about mastering the craft of storytelling that transforms a broadcast into an engaging narrative. While top-tier software and hardware are essential, the true impact of a great stream lies in how well you tell the story of the event.
Effective streaming isn’t just about showing the action; it’s about creating a narrative that captivates your audience. This involves understanding the art of video and how to use it to draw viewers into the experience. It’s about making them feel the emotions, the tension, and the excitement of the event as if they were there. By honing this craft, your streams can become more than just broadcasts—they can become powerful, immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression. For more insights on mastering the craft of streaming, explore our blog at Ozdyck Productions, and feel free to reach out if you need personalized advice.
