The internet through its various arms has simplified the lives of many people. Nowadays, even in the comfort of one’s own home, it’s possible to connect with different people from different corners of the world. Whether it’s business-related such as educators connecting with their students online or social interactions such as gamers connecting with their gaming community online, the internet has made life more worthwhile, convenient and above all simple.
A good thing about streaming in modern times is that streamers are spoiled for choice in choosing the platform to use. Some platforms are niche-specific while others are accommodative to everyone. In the same vein, some platforms are free, others are subscription-based while others are freemium (offering free services at first but requiring subscriptions later on).
While there exist a plethora of different streaming platforms, there are some which have somehow managed to win the hearts of multitudes of people and hence become the fan favourites. Such platforms are highlighted below.
YouTube Live
YouTube Live is arguably one of the biggest live-streaming platforms in the world. There are three main reasons why this is the case. First, YouTube Live is easy to set up for prospective streamers. Second, YouTube Live is a free streaming platform hence can be used with minimum initial investments (the only thing required are broadcasting and recording equipment). Third, YouTube Live is not niche-specific hence can be used by anyone whether those looking to conduct their business online, those offering educational content, or those offering art and entertainment content among many others.
Facebook Live
When it comes to social networks and messengers, Facebook ranks high up there. It is no surprise therefore to realise that its live-streaming platform Facebook Live is also quite popular. Thanks to its massive global reach world over, Facebook Live is used by many people looking to connect with millions of people from different corners of the world. Facebook Live is a free platform hence it doesn’t require any significant investment to set up. All that’s needed are quality devices for streaming and some data.
Twitch
Twitch is very popular but unlike the other platforms already listed here, it’s a niche-specific streaming platform. Twitch was originally designed for gamers but has since expanded to include art and entertainment streamers. The fact that it’s a niche-specific platform has significantly helped Twitch to gain a significant following as most gaming enthusiasts settle at the platform. Twitch is a free platform which requires minimum investment to start using. Another impressive thing with Twitch is that fans of top streamers such as Spoopykitt can record spoopykitt broadcasts hence relieving all the action at a later time.
Vimeo Livestream
Vimeo Livestream is a premium live streaming platform. While it is largely used for entertainment streams, it’s important to note that Vimeo Livestream is not niche specific, streamers can use it to stream any content they want. As a premium streaming platform, Vimeo Livestream offers many great features which include content monetisation through pay-per-view or subscriptions, live chats, Q&A sessions, polls, streaming analytics as well as simulcast features.