Comparison of the 10 Best Encoding Software – Everything You Need to Know in 2022

By Max Wilbert | Posted on July 3, 2024July 3, 2024 by Max Wilbert | 31 min Read

One of the central elements for live streaming is efficient live streaming encoding software (or hardware). This tool is responsible for transcoding video from one format to another. It also allows you to capture video content from a previously selected source such as a webcam, camera, or phone. You can then send this content to your online video platform and stream it to all your viewers via its CDN network.

In this post, we guide you through what encoding software is. We help you select the most suitable software encoder based on your live-streaming needs. We also compare the top 13 best video encoding software options for professional live broadcasts. These software encoders are all RTMP-enabled, meaning they work with most video streaming platforms.

This article has been updated to reflect the most recent developments in video encoding software in 2024.

Table of Contents

What is Encoding Software?

Encoding software converts video formats in real time to prepare them for live streaming.

Encoding software, also known as encoder software or encoder programs, is essential for converting data from one format to another. They’re widely used to encode videos, which makes them compatible with various devices and platforms. Encoding data software ensures efficient storage and transmission by compressing and formatting data. For instance, professional video encoding software transforms raw data files into different formats such as MP4 and AVI. This optimizes them for streaming or playback. This process involves complex algorithms that balance quality and file size, ensuring a seamless experience across different media environments.

Do You Need An Encoder To Live Stream?

Live streaming involves a few different moving pieces. It can be a little overwhelming, and many companies just starting with video content want to ensure they only purchase the equipment they need to get started. The truth is that, yes, you do need an encoder to livestream.

Your camera captures your video file. Your content management system will store it. But only your encoder will translate that digital file into all the different formats your viewers want to access.

The good news is that you can find built-in encoding on numerous cloud-based video hosting platforms, making your encoding effortless. There are also free tools for encoding, but this can involve a learning curve if you’re a beginner.

What Is the Difference Between Encoding and Transcoding?

Video encoding and transcoding are often used interchangeably. Although they both refer to attempting to convert a video file to a different format, their definitions differ slightly. By definition, video encoding software converts “raw” (analogue) video to an encoded form, whereas video transcoders convert one encoded format to another.

Hardware vs. Software Encoders

Before we get into it, we should highlight the distinction between hardware and software encoders.

Hardware encoders are dedicated devices, built for the singular purpose of live streaming. They come in various sizes ranging from rack mounts and mobile units.

Hardware encoders generally have more reliable operations but can also include excellent functionality. TeraDek’s line of mobile encoders allows you to use cellular bonding technology. That’s ideal for breaking news, outdoor sports, and more.

Hardware encoders contain everything you need in a small package: an encoding algorithm and a high computational unit dedicated to running the encoding algorithm. There are interfaces where you can select various options depending on your objectives.

The benefits they provide are frequently required for expert productions or if you intend to produce broadcast-quality videos or live streams that will impress and engage your audience.

Software encoders on the other hand are video conversion programs that run on a local computer. These software solutions have graphic interfaces to manage the conversion process and allow control over elements such as bitrate and stream quality

Software encoders are appealing because of their low cost and ease of operation. They also support future performance enhancements as the software can be upgraded as new features or product versions are released.

However, the main drawback is that software encoders are not dedicated devices. Computers are designed for multitasking and perform multiple actions at once. They lack the robustness and speed of hardware devices since they cannot save their unlimited resources for the live stream encoding process.

So, what’s the final tally regarding hardware vs. software encoding? The bottom line is that software encoding is cheaper than its hardware counterpart, but it provides excellent value for their price.

Pros of Hardware Encoder

Great Performance

Excellent performance, especially when extremely high-quality streaming is essential. A computer with its parts can’t run better than a hardware encoder. Especially when working with multiple high-end sources or disseminating to diverse streaming platforms at once. This is mainly because hardware encoders are explicitly designed for streaming and recording. Every part inside was chosen or built solely for the task, and every ounce of processing capabilities is devoted strictly to it.

Flexible

Most hardware encoders have multiple video inputs, allowing you to connect high-end devices directly. The same is valid for audio: some appliances even have inputs for high-quality audio devices.

With inputs built into your video encoder, creating a professional video is more effortless. Software-encoder setups, on the other hand, are typically limited to USB. That means you’ll have to rely on webcams and microphones unsuitable for professional use.

You can, of course, buy capture cards that help bring non-USB signals to your PC and a front-end audio interface makes it easy to use competent audio equipment. However, this adds more components and cables and these additions are a prospective point of failure.

It also complicates setup and teardown, resulting in more items to keep track of and possibly loss while traveling.

Dependable

They’re incredibly dependable, given that they’re only designed to encode. Encoder hardware is designed from the onset for streaming and recording. The underlying software is the same, so there are no contending or unnecessary processes. That’s not to say hardware encoders never have problems, but it’s much less likely.

Easy Maintenance

Have you ever experienced a problem with computer software and decided to call the vendor’s customer service number?

It is a very strenuous process, with each vendor sending you from one person to the next with no one accepting it’s their device’s fault.

With a hardware encoder, you can avoid this altogether. Because hardware encoders are developed and compiled by a single manufacturer, you only have one point of contact. This makes repairing or replacing your system a relatively painless process.

Cons of Hardware Encoder

Cost

The major disadvantage of a hardware encoder is the cost. Their prices begin at a few hundred dollars and rise from there, making them inaccessible to some people.

Upgrades

Upgrades are complex, especially when compared to software encoders.

Pros of the Software Encoder

Cost

Software encoding is the cheapest option, especially if your production doesn’t require that much effort. With its meager prices, the hardware-software can’t compete in this aspect. They have many built-in features, like switching between diverse video sources, adding overlaid graphics or text to your videos, etc. All these make it an excellent option for those just starting in the streaming sector.

Availability

Software encoding is an excellent option because you probably have everything you need to stream video with the software. So it’s easy to start streaming with a software encoder.

Cons of the Software Encoder

Low Performance

If you want to create a professional production where video quality is paramount and multiple cameras are involved, the software encoder will fail you. Creating high-quality production with software encoders requires various pricey add-ons which come up to the price of a hardware encoder.

Viruses

The hardware for software encoders is not included. They depend entirely on the CPU of their host computer for processing power. Even the most powerful computer is susceptible to unexpected system updates and viruses, which are unacceptable when you are about to go live.

Various Use Cases for Video Encoding Software

Video encoding software comes with unique features that may make one a better choice for you over another.

There is a wide variety of video encoding software on the market today, including live stream video. They share many similarities in design and primary function. But the first step in choosing the best video encoding software for your project will depend on exactly what features you need.

For example, some types of live encoding software are equipped with advanced tools focused on production. Other encoding software is designed for new broadcasters and small businesses getting started with live video streaming.

It’s sometimes difficult to tell if a particular encoder software is geared towards the beginning of the more advanced broadcaster. Therefore, we recommend taking advantage of the complimentary trials for most software encoding. These trials usually include most features, though they often include a digital watermark on output live channels.

Nonetheless, running through test streams using these products while comparing several unique options can help you get a real-world feel for which encoding program is the best fit for you.

YouTube Encoder Software

If you plan to upload or live stream YouTube, using YouTube encoder-compatible software is crucial for converting raw data into a suitable digital format. The best encoder for YouTube ensures optimal video quality and compatibility while simultaneously handling the compression and formatting conversion. For live streaming, a robust live streaming encoder provides seamless real-time video transmission. This process enhances video playback which is necessary for the high-quality video viewers expect from YouTube content creators.

Key Software Encoding Features

A great way to determine the best encoding software for you is to look at specific features. Before investing in encoder programs, you should check compatibility if you have already invested in equipment such as cameras, computers, and capture cards.

You can find compatibility information on most software encoding websites. Otherwise, you can contact the provider and ask directly.

Here are some of the more common features that you may require. This list also includes whether or not each component is available on the live-streaming software we’re considering here.

1. Instant Replay and Scoreboards

These features are essential for sports streaming of any kind. For each encoder specifically:

OBS Studio supports instant replay via a plugin. A scoreboard plugin is also available.
vMix Pro includes built-in support for instant replay. All versions include several scoreboard templates and you can create your own.
Wirecast supports instant replay and includes scoreboard templates that you can customize yourself.
VidBlasterX supports this functionality via dedicated Replay and Scoreboard modules.

2. NDI Support

NDI, or Network Device Interface, is a NewTek technology explicitly designed for broadcasting.

It allows you to easily pass video feeds and other data between multiple computers on the same network. This will enable you to offload tasks like generating graphics to external computers.

All the encoders we’ve mentioned support NDI. For more information on solutions for professional broadcasting, check out our article comparing the top streaming platforms for 2024.

3. Multi-Bitrate Streaming

When streaming, the internet speed of your viewers is always a consideration. The best way to provide a great viewing experience to everyone is by streaming in multiple bitrates at once.

All the products here are capable of multi-bitrate streaming. However, OBS Studio’s support for this is limited and involves complex configuration. For more information on how to get the best live video streaming experience, check out this post on getting started with video software for multi-bitrate streaming.

4. Operating Systems Compatibility

Another important consideration is compatibility with operating systems.

VidBlasterX and vMix are Windows-only applications. Wirecast is compatible with both Mac and Windows. OBS Studio is the only program here that works on Mac, Windows, and Linux.

5. Video Conferencing

One common situation for live broadcasting is sharing a conversation between multiple people. If they’re in remote locations, the best way to do this is via video conferencing software or virtual events. Think Zoom, Skype, or Facetime, but for broadcasting.

vMix and Wirecast both have robust, integrated tools for video conferencing in a live stream.

Unfortunately, VidBlasterX and OBS Studio don’t have native support for video conferencing. However, both tools allow you to bring virtual live-streaming conferences via external applications. For more information and options, check out our post comparing the top live-streaming software for video conferencing.

6. Cost and Budget

Streaming costs are always a consideration when deciding on your business. You want to invest in an encoding tool that gives you the most value for what you pay.

Thankfully, free offerings like OBS Studio allow users to test basic functionality. From there, you can determine what additional features you may need.

Now that we have outlined the specific encoding software features to look for, let’s take a look at a list of popular live-streaming software. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it does include some of the most popular encoder options among our community of broadcasters.

The streaming encoder software we’ll talk about is all RTMP-enabled, which means it works with most streaming platforms.

1. OBS Studio

OBS Studio is free and open-source RTMP encoder software for video recording and live streaming. OBS Studio Version 27.0.1

OBS Studio is a free and open-source option that’s excellent for beginning live streamers. It’s expandable with various plugins and has a robust community for support and questions. It is supported on Mac, Windows, and Linux PCs.

Formerly known as Open Broadcaster Studio, it is an open-source platform with encoding capabilities. This software encoder and comparison are based on the latest OBS Studio Version 272.4. This professional video streaming and broadcasting software is available for macOS 10.13 or newer, and Windows 8.1, 10, and 11 operating systems. For the Linux version, FFmpeg is required.

Basic Functionality:

OBS Studio offers many great features for new broadcasters just getting the hang of live streaming. The software has a set of OBS-specific settings and system requirements to ensure the most optimal live broadcasting experience.

Advanced features of this streaming encoder software include:

Real-time video/audio capturing and mixing
Unlimited number of scenes and custom transitions
Intuitive audio mixer
Modular “Dock” UI

Key Features:

HLS Live streaming and recording functionality
Audio and video mixing, filters, and transitions
Support for hotkeys
Chroma key/green screen support
Scenes allow you to prepare overlays in advance for rapid switching
Support for a wide range of video, audio, and image sources, as well as screenshots
Expandable via plugins to add NDI functionality, remote control via WebSockets, advanced scene switching, and more
One notable negative is that OBS Studio does not offer multi-bitrate streaming
Detailed wiki and highly active user forum for support/help. Many YouTube tutorials are available as well
Real-time video/audio capturing and mixing
Unlimited number of scenes and custom transitions
Intuitive audio mixer
Modular “Dock” UI

Pros:

Free to use
Works with most OVPs
Works with Windows 8.1,10, and 11; macOS 10.13+; Ubuntu 18.04 and newer for Linux. However, FFmpeg is required.
It is open-source for ongoing development and crowdsourced improvements
Great for beginners

Cons:

Lack of detailed guidance and support
Fundamental compatibility with macOS
Very taxing on the CPU and memory

Pricing:

OBS Studio is free to use for everyone and has a working integration with Dacast. Dacast has developed a customized version of this video encoder software. See for yourself in this tutorial video

OBS Studio is best used as an encoding software and a professional online video platform. Check out our how-to live stream with the OBS Studio video tutorial for more information.

2. vMix

vMix is a Live Video Streaming Software that allows you to broadcast live productions online.

vMix is a professional-grade switching and streaming application. It’s constantly updated with new features and is widely used across the industry. It’s available on Windows PCs. The prices range from free to $1200 for a “Pro” version.

The latest version of the Windows-specific software is 25.0.0.29 and includes an upgrade to a free 60-day trial of vMix PRO for download. While vMix 24 is for Windows only, the software can be installed on a Mac via Boot Camp if the machine has a Windows partition.

Basic Functionality:

vMix offers an array of video streaming tool plans. They offer a wide range of features at different price points, so there are options for broadcasters of every level of expertise. vMix offers robust encoding services.

Key Features:

Support for a wide range of inputs including webcams, cameras, capture cards, DVDs, sound cards, playlists, photos, PPT presentations, and more
NDI support
Chroma key and virtual sets
Built-in titling tool that supports animation via XAML
Live streaming platform integrations (including with the Dacast streaming platform)
vMix Social allows you to pull and display content from popular social media platforms
Instant replay, slow motion, and scoreboards
Training videos available
vMix “reference systems” ease the difficulty of building a custom live production system

Pros:

Many powerful features
Reliable customer support
Professional platform
Added speed for specialized codecs

Cons:

A high price point for most inclusive plans
It only works with Windows
A bit tricky to use

Pricing:

vMix is available for Windows computers only, and it comes in five different editions. Each purchase never expires, and all editions include free updates for a year. The versions are:

Basic (free), which supports 4 (up to 2 camera/NDI) inputs and video up to 768 x 576 resolution
Basic HD ($60), which supports four inputs (up to 3 camera/NDI) and video up to Full HD 1920×1080 resolution
HD ($350), which supports 1,000 inputs, adds vMix call functionality, four overlay channels, and supports full HD video in 1920×1080 resolution
4K ($700), which supports 1,000 inputs, 4K resolution video (4096 x 2160), PTZ control, two recorders, instant replay, 4 SRT outputs, and much more
Pro ($1200), which also supports 1,000 inputs, includes all 4K features and 2 records, plus up to 8 callers, up to 4 cameras for instant replay, and 4 SRT outputs

The following is a subscription license that includes, and is charged every month:

MAX ($50/month), which also supports 1,000 inputs, 1,000 NDI inputs, and includes all 4K resolution video (4096 x 2160), PTZ control, 2 recorders, instant replay, 4 SRT outputs

vMix also offers a 60-day free trial and has all the features of vMix Pro, including the ability to use resolutions greater than HD such as 4K, mainly to ensure vMix supports your computer hardware and work with it before purchasing. It is a great perk, as most encoding software offers only up to a 30-day free trial.

3. Wirecast

Wirecast Pro is the top-of-the-line, award-winning production software for streaming and recording high-quality live video.

Wirecast is an accessible, capable encoding software from the company Telestream. It’s available on Windows PCs and Macs. Wirecast includes regular updates and a wide range of features, from instant replay to integrated video conferencing. Wirecast is available in two versions: Studio and Pro, which includes additional functionality.

Basic Functionality:

Wirecast supports live video compositing via a “layers” architecture similar to many graphics programs. The encoder facilitates live switching, picture-in-picture composition, titles, audio delay, and many other fine-tuning compositional elements.

Wirecast’s streaming encoder software makes it easy to incorporate pre-recorded video content into your broadcast. It also supports the encoding of HD and SD sources for streams broadcast simultaneously to multiple servers and platforms.

The Wirecast Pro enhanced program adds several other specialized features, including:

Replay
Live scoreboards
Virtual 3D
Use of IP cameras and web streams
8-track audio output

These advanced features of Wirecast Pro make it a better choice than the basic Wirecast program for most live-streamed events. With all those features, Wirecast’s biggest downside may be the price. To start, you can download a free trial version of the basic software.

Key Features:

Input sources from cameras, mics, webcams, IP cameras, capture cards, and desktops
Ideal for sports: instant replay, scoreboards, clocks, and timers
The free wireless camera app allows you to use any iOS device as a video source
NDI support
Graphics and titling tool
Audio mixer and up to 8 audio tracks
Built-in video conference tool
Stream to more than one destination simultaneously
Support for MIDI hardware controllers
Stream and record simultaneously, with re-stream and live caption options
Multiple bitrate streaming
Integrates with Facebook Live and Twitter for sharing comments on-screen
Includes instant replay, scoreboard, and timers for sports
Free wireless camera app turns iOS devices into mobile live video sources
Stream to multiple destinations simultaneously
Integrated video chat via “Wirecast Rendezvous”
Local program output

Pros:

Easy-to-use, user-friendly platform
Compatible with most popular operating systems
Fully loaded with valuable features

Cons:

High price point
Many features are locked in the “Studio” version
It consumes a lot of computer memory

Pricing:

The software comes in two versions:

Wirecast Studio for enhanced live production & streaming: pricing is $24.92/month
Wirecast Pro for advanced live show and streaming: pricing is $33.25 which also comes with a free trial

The latest version of Wirecast is 15.0. It is the newest complete version and was released in June 2024. It features several enhancements and fixes, including FBLive polling, a rewritten WebStream plugin, and Virtual Camera improvements. You can check out its tech specs here to know more about it.

4. VidBlasterX

Vidblasterx is a versatile video production software solution for capturing and streaming everything from webcasts to live events.

VidBlasterX is another live video encoding software and mixer. It’s a competent, expandable, and customizable product.

This company offers three packages: VidblasterX Home, VidBlasterX Studio, and VidBlasterX Broadcast. The main difference between each version is the number of modules each supports. Each successive module also adds additional advanced features for professional broadcasters.

VidBlasterX Home is an essential product. It supports up to seven modules. VidBlasterX Studio has several features for studio production of videos (hence the name) and allows for more versatile videos. The Studio version supports HD and television-quality full-screen output and community support.

VidBlasterX Broadcast incorporates all the features of VidBlaster Studio, adds more module capacity, and is recommended for professional broadcast studios. With Broadcast, you get direct email support from the developer.

The Broadcast edition also supports UDP streaming, multiple streaming sources, and recorder modules in a single profile, and includes priority support.

Basic Functionality:

VidBlasterX is an encoding software organized into a series of modules, which can be added, removed, and rearranged on multiple screens as needed.

Key Features:

Modular user interface
Includes macro and scripting functionality to automate or hot-key actions
Supports overlays and lower thirds
Chroma key support
Live streaming and recording up to 4K resolution
Compatible with social media platforms and most OVPs (including Dacast)
Audio mixer
Multiview support

Pros:

Has plans for a wide range of budgets
Feature-rich
Easily customizable

Cons:

Not compatible with macOS
Not well-suited for inexperienced live streamers
Slightly complex

Pricing:

VidBlasterX is available in three versions. Each of the following options is priced with an annual subscription model:

Home: $9/year; supports 7 modules.
Studio: $99/year; supports 25 modules.
Broadcast: $999/year; supports 100 modules. This version also supports multiple recorder & streamer modules in a single profile.

The difference between the versions is the number of simultaneously active modules you can have.

The Home editions support up to seven modules, enough for basic live streaming. The Studio edition supports up to 25 modules, and the Broadcast edition supports 50. These higher limits allow professional users with multiple monitors to set up and oversee complex workflows.

The Broadcast edition also supports UDP streaming, multiple streaming sources, and recorder modules in a single profile and includes priority support.

5. VLC

VLC is a highly compatible encoding software.

VLC is an encoding software from VideoLAN. This open-source project is entirely free, and is known for its compatibility with virtually every operating system and video format.

Aside from its ultra-compatibility, VLC is known for its extensive customizability. The range of customization on this software makes it suitable for broadcasters of all levels of expertise. VLC is an excellent choice for video encoder software for live streaming.

Basic Functionality:

The main functionality of the VLC encoding software is video encoding of all media formats.

Key Features:

Non-profit organization
Compatible with all formats
Compatible with Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, and Linux
Customizable with a variety of skins
Extensions for customization
Subtitles
Video and audio filters

Pros:

Free to use
Easy to use
Highly compatible
No ads

Cons:

Some issues with audio streaming
Some complaints of “bugginess”

Pricing:

VLC is free to use because it runs on donations. Users can donate any amount they choose.

6. FFmpeg

FFmpeg is a highly customizable encoding software.

FFmpeg is an open-source encoding software. This software includes a library of tools for recording, converting, and streaming audio and video.

Additionally, FFmpeg is mainly a command-line application. This requires quite a bit of technical know-how, so it is best suited for advanced broadcasters. However, there are some GUI interfaces available.

FFmpeg works on most operating systems under various environments, machines, and configurations.

Basic Functionality:

FFmpeg provides a variety of tools for coding and decoding.

Key Features:

RTMP ingest
H.264, H.265, and other modern codecs
It supports streaming in any resolution
Record streams locally
Primarily an encoder
No mixing features
FFserver for live streaming

Pros:

Open-source
Highly customizable
Loaded with many valuable tools
Multiple encoding configurations
Suitable for business use
Compatible with most popular operating systems

Cons:

Minimal educational materials and tutorials
No support for HLS testing
It can be difficult for new broadcasters

Pricing:

FFmpeg is free to use.

7. HandBrake

HandBrake specializes in video conversion.

HandBrake is another great encoding software that focuses on video conversion. It is open-source, making it great for broadcasters with specific needs. HandBrake comes with a variety of basic tools, including video filters, subtitles, chapter markers, and more.

This encoding software is free to use, attracting users with all levels of broadcasting expertise.

Basic Functionality:

HandBrake is primarily used for converting video files.

Key Features:

Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux
Works with most types of multimedia files
Open-source
Easily customizable
Equipped with a variety of presets
Supports batch conversions
Subtitling and chapter markers
Video filters

Pros:

Highly compatible
Easy to use (once you get the hang of it)
Customizable
Tools for convenience and efficiency

Cons:

Some complaints of bugs
It takes some time to get used to
It doesn’t work well for converting long videos

Pricing:

HandBrake is free to use.

8. AVS Video Converter

AVS Video Converter is an encoding software for Windows users.

AVS Video Converter is a popular video encoding software for Windows users. It is said to be fast and efficient, and compatible with the most popular video file formats. In addition to video encoding, AVS Video Converter offers some essential video editing tools.

The major downside of this video encoding software is that it is only compatible with Windows, not macOS or Linux.

Basic Functionality:

The basic functionality of AVS Video Converter is video encoding on Windows computers.

Key Features:

Compatible with Windows only
It supports most major media file types
Easy-to-use software
Video editing tools
Creative and aesthetic customizations
Batch mode for converting multiple files at once

Pros:

It’s free to use most features
Compatible with most media files
Fast and efficient

Cons:

Complaints of random crashing
It does not work with macOS or Linux
Exporting is not included in free accounts
Some complaints about licensing issues

Pricing:

AVS Video Converter is free to download. Paid upgrades are available, but the site does not provide any additional information.

9. VideoProc

VideoProc is encoder software with a variety of functionalities.

VideoProc is a transcoding and encoding software used for multiple use cases. It includes sports for file conversions, resizing, editing, and stream recording.

This video encoding software is very user-friendly

Basic Functionality:

VideoProc has several functionalities, but it is a video encoder at the core.

Key Features:

Compatible with both Windows and macOS
Video file conversion and resizing (encoding and transcoding)
Stream recording
Very user-friendly
Tools for editing
GIF studio
Video cropping
M3u8 building tools
Tools for adding watermarks

Pros:

Easy to use
It goes beyond the essential encoding software
Extensive collection of video streaming tools

Cons:

Complaints of slow downloads
Limited customer support

Pricing:

VideoProc is available in several pricing plans, including:

Free: Basic free version
One-Year License: $59.90 for one computer
Lifetime License: $78.90 for one computer
Family License: $119.90 for two to five computers

Adobe Media Encoder

Basic Functionality

Adobe Media Encoder is a great tool for encoding and converting video and audio files into many formats. It integrates perfectly with Adobe’s suite of creative software which helps streamline the workflow for media professionals.

Key features

Batch processing
GPU acceleration
Many supported formats
Preset templates for different platforms

Pros

Robust integration with Adobe Creative Cloud
High-quality output
User-friendly interface
Supports automated workflows

Cons

High resource consumption
Steep learning curve for beginners
Requires Adobe Creative Cloud subscription

Pricing

Pricing for Adobe Media Encoder is usually included in an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. This starts at $20.99 per month for a single app or $54.99 per month for all apps.

12. DivX

Basic Functionality

DivX includes an encoder which is used to compress and convert video files into the DivX digital format. This format is renowned for its high-quality video output and efficient compression. The encoder is versatile and suitable for standard and high-definition videos in various media applications.

Key Features

Advanced video compression.
Multi-pass encoding
Multi-video format support
High-definition video optimization
DivX HEVC for enhanced compression and quality

Pros

High-quality video output
Efficient compression reduces file size
Supports multiple video formats
Advanced settings for customization

Cons

Steep learning curve for beginners
Advanced features typically require more processing power

Pricing

DivX encoder offers a free basic version with essential features. There is also the Pro version, which includes advanced functionalities and is available for a one-time purchase or a subscription fee starting at $19.99.

13. Bonus: Dacast’s Live Streaming Software

Dacast’s live streaming software provides streaming and video hosting solutions with built-in software encoding capabilities.

We couldn’t resist adding Dacast to the list. Dacast doesn’t fit in the encoding software category because it’s so much more! Dacast supports live encoding and transcoding and is equipped with the tools you need to host your video content. The unified live streaming platform integrates with all 4 of the software encoders above OBS Studio, VidBlasterX, vMix, and Wirecast to provide the resources you need for a high-quality broadcast.

Basic Functionality:

Dacast provides comprehensive live streaming and online video hosting solutions. Broadcasters who use this streaming solution maintain 100% ownership of their content.

Among other features, Dacast offers an integrated video paywall, password protection, referrer restriction, and an analytics dashboard

Pros

Dacast is compatible with both macOS and Windows.
video hosting
tech support
Video security
Live encoding support for the top video encoders
Low-latency HTML5 channels for video streaming
RTMP Encoder HLS streaming
Player API access for 3rd party player integration
Video API access on premium plans (event and scale)
Multi-bitrate streaming
Real-time analytics
Ad-free streaming

New!

Pros:

Unlimited concurrent viewers and live channels
Zoom live streaming integration
White-label video streaming solutions
Expo galleries video portal
Unlimited live channels
Embeddable HTML5 video player
SVOD, AVOD, and TVOD monetization options
Mobile device support
Live stream recording
China Video Hosting
Plans for every budget

Cons:

It requires a bit of a learning curve

Dacast’s plans start at $39/month and come with all the features required for professional broadcasting. Plans include:

Starter Plan: $39/month (includes 2.4 TB of bandwidth & 500 GB of storage)
Event Plan: $63/month (includes 6 TB of bandwidth upfront and 250 GB of storage)
Scale Plan: $165/month (includes 24 TB of bandwidth per year and 2 TB of storage)
Custom plan: Contact us for custom pricing plans

You can try all of these features 100% risk-free for 14 days with the Dacast free trial.

Fitting Your Budget

Cost is always a consideration when deciding on your business. You want to invest in an encoding tool that gives you the most value for what you pay.

Thankfully, free offerings like OBS Studio allow users to test out basic functionality. From there you can determine what additional streaming features you may need.

If plugins can’t provide this, professional-grade live encoding software is now quite affordable.

Conclusion

Encoding software is easier and more versatile than ever. This rapidly developing technology is constantly improving and prices are accessible for most budgets. Features are improving, easier to use, and are available to anyone using professional broadcasting software. If you’re already a Dacast user, we recommend exploring our custom OBS Studio portal. It was designed to work seamlessly with our complete, flexible, and affordable professional streaming solution.

Not yet getting the most out of your streaming experience by using Dacast? Join the others using Dacast to enhance their video streaming with Dacast’s intuitive, professional-grade video streaming software.

You can try Dacast right now, free for 14 days.

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We hope this article has helped you better understand and distinguish between encoding programs. We invite you to join the Dacast LinkedIn group for regular live streaming tips and exclusive offers.

Please note that this post was originally written by Max Wilbert. It was revised by Emily Krings to include the most up-to-date information. Emily is a strategic content writer and storyteller. She specializes in helping businesses create blog content that connects with their audience.

Max Wilbert

Max Wilbert is a passionate writer, live streaming practitioner, and has strong expertise in the video streaming industry.