While livestreaming has technically existed since the 1990s, its beginnings were humble. Today, it’s a viable career path for many.
Fun fact: the global livestreaming market is expected to reach $256 billion by 2032. Even more mind-bending, 43 years’ worth of livestream content is watched every minute. Let that sink in.
Just take a look at the ‘Live’ section of any social media platform, and you’ll see creators from around the world drawing in large audiences. With that kind of viewership comes the potential for monetization, and if your audience is sizable, we could be talking big bucks.
So, how do these streamers hit such massive numbers? And how do they turn their content into cash? Well, the truth is that livestreamers can access many monetization models, all depending on the platform(s) they choose.
What is a Livestreaming Platform?
A livestreaming platform is simply an online portal allowing you to broadcast live videos to an audience, either privately or publicly.
Most livestreaming platforms fall into one of two categories: social media or specialized. While most of the big players in social media have livestreaming capabilities for creators, these platforms may come with some caveats: pricing, personalization, and security features. You get the idea.
Then, you have specialized platforms designed for streamers to take advantage of increased features and capabilities. The caveat with these platforms is that they might not have the same user base and algorithms as social media, which can make it harder to gain viewership.
Many streamers will stream to both social media platforms and specialized platforms (what’s known as multistreaming), but even still, you’ll want to choose the platforms that best suit you, your audience size, and your goals.
What to Look for in a Livestreaming Platform
You want a platform that meets your needs and resonates with your audience. Content creators can leverage livestreams to make money with multiple methods, but all of them involve converting viewers into sales. To do this well, you need a reliable platform.
Video hosting
Not all platforms are equal, so first, you’ll want to look for video hosting capabilities. The right platform ensures that your streams run smoothly and viewers can enjoy your content without (frustrating) interruptions.
Also, look for platforms that allow you to archive past streams and stream privately as well as publicly. This is especially handy if you want to use livestreams to build course content, sell masterclasses, or for any kind of private/exclusive live content.
Device compatibility
Device compatibility is another factor to consider. With viewers accessing streams from various devices (smartphones, tablets, or laptops), you’ll want to ensure the platform you choose to stream on works seamlessly across all (or at least a few) of them. The easier it is for your audience to connect, the more likely they will stick around.
FYI: 79% of users aged 18 to 34 years in the US use their smartphones to watch online video content weekly. Only around 2 in 10 respondents of the same age group reported using their tablet devices for the same activity. With social media having a hefty share of streaming viewership, you’ll want to ensure your platform is smartphone-optimized.
Security features
You can’t overlook security. Protecting your content and your audience’s data should be a top priority.
Look for platforms that offer security measures, including encryption and privacy controls, so you can create a safe environment for your interactions. While most of the top platforms have robust security features, some smaller platforms or integrations may not, so be careful.
Analytics and reports
Understanding your audience and what they want to see is key to growth and earning money. You want a platform that provides insights into viewer engagement, demographics, and watch time so that you can refine your content and tailor your approach as you grow.
Pricing
Last but certainly not least, you need to consider pricing. While there are several free options out there, it’s a balancing act to find platforms that fit your budget and simultaneously offer the features necessary for success.
The best livestreaming platforms support your monetization efforts and enable you to convert viewers into customers without breaking the bank. Free platforms are great for beginners, but you’ll likely want access to more features with fewer pay cuts as you grow.
The 15 Best Livestreaming Platforms for Content Creators
1. Whop
Whop is a game-changer for creators who want to monetize their livestreams while building a real community. Getting started is free, so you can dive in without any upfront costs.
An all-in-one platform founded by Gen Z entrepreneurs, Whop specializes in helping creators sell digital products, services, and more online. Whether you’re a developer looking to sell software, a sports capper offering tips, or an educator sharing knowledge through courses, Whop has you covered. It’s tailored for all content types, providing the tools you need to excel and create on your terms.
At the time of writing, Whop has already helped sellers generate over $529 million in digital product sales – it’s not just a platform; it’s an ecosystem.
Whop’s Key Features:
When you first create a whop (your internet hub), it will be a blank canvas. You customize your whop by adding apps: chat rooms, courses, live videos, digital product listings, affiliate links, help desks, and more. It’s fully customizable to your brand, audience, and what you want to sell.
When it comes to hosting livestreams, you can create unique experiences for your audience, whether you're hosting a casual chat, a masterclass, or gameplays. Whatever your live content is, you can monetize it with Whop.
Monetization Options:
You can create digital memberships for fans to buy, and host free content, too. You decide who has access to which parts of your whop. Once you’re ready, you can join the Whop Marketplace so that your whop will be listed on whop.com, boosting your exposure and revenue. As well as earning from livestreams, you can use your hub to sell subscriptions, promote affiliate products, sell your own digital products or services, and refer other creators to Whop to make affiliate commissions.
Whop’s Pricing:
Getting started with Whop is free, giving you everything you need to create your hub, sell products, and process payments. For each transaction, you incur a 3% + payment processing fee, which covers a range of features, including global payment options (credit cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, and crypto), 24/7 web support, affiliate management, an auto dispute fighter, and access to 10+ product types to sell. Plus, you’ll benefit from free graphic design services to help promote your offerings.
Ideal For:
Anyone and everyone who is serious about making money online. If you’re looking for a platform to monetize your live videos without annoying rules and high fees, Whop is the right fit. Whether you're just starting out or already have an established presence, we’ll equip you with everything you need.
Main Advantages of Whop:
One of the best things about Whop is its focus on community. You’re not just streaming; you’re building relationships with your audience. Plus, with flexible monetization options, you can find the right mix of free and paid content that works for you and your fans.
Main Disadvantages of Whop:
As Whop is a specialized platform rather than a social media platform, gaining visibility might take a bit more effort. We recommend pairing your social media content strategy with your whop to funnel viewers and followers over (hint: a link in your bio is perfect for this).
2. TikTok Live
Thanks to its massive user base and engaging platform, TikTok Live is a key player in livestreaming. It’s free to get started, has a strong algorithm that can help creators go viral, and has built-in features for monetizing livestreams exclusively.
TikTok Live’s Key Features:
TikTok Live allows creators to interact directly with their followers through live broadcasts. Popular creators and streamers share everything, from spontaneous moments to unfiltered content to planned events, all while engaging with viewers through comments, likes, and gifts. The platform has some unique features, like filters and effects, to help keep streams lively and visually appealing.
Monetization Options:
Creators can receive virtual gifts from viewers during streams, which can be converted into real money. Additionally, you can sign up for the TikTok Creator Marketplace, which connects brands with influencers for collaborations and sponsored content. The income potential grows with your audience.
Unfortunately, though, TikTok does take a chunk of your earnings. Depending on various factors, creators typically receive about 50-70% of the revenue made on their livestreams.
TikTok Live’s Pricing:
Accessing TikTok Live is free, but there are age requirements: users must be at least 16 years old to stream and 18 to send or receive gifts.
Main Advantages of TikTok Live:
TikTok is the 5th most popular social media platform, with 1.04 billion monthly active users users globally as of 2024. This means your audience is likely already there, waiting to discover your content. And it’s still growing – time spent daily on TikTok increased by 113.14% between 2019 and 2024. TikTok’s built-in LIVE page promotes creators based on similar interests and demographics, making it easier to grow your livestreaming audience than other platforms.
Main Disadvantages of TikTok Live:
Many monetization options accessed through the Creator Marketplace are only accessible to those residing in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, Great Britain, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States, and Vietnam.
3. Instagram Live
With millions of active users, Instagram offers a visually driven environment perfect for sharing live moments, whether you’re hosting a Q&A, showcasing a new product, or just hanging out with your followers.
Instagram Live’s Key Features:
Instagram allows you to interact with your audience through live comments and questions. You can even invite other users to join your livestream, promoting collaboration and boosting your audience and engagement. After your broadcast ends, you can share it on your feed, but remember that the comments and likes garnered during the live session won’t be retained.
Monetization Options:
To access monetization features, including receiving "Badges" from viewers during your livestreams, you generally need at least 10,000 followers or a verified account. Instagram takes a cut of approximately 30% of these earnings. Additionally, you can use livestreams on Instagram to promote products directly through Instagram Shopping. Collaborating with brands for sponsored content is another possible avenue, especially for those with a strong following. Of course, you can also use livestreams on Instagram as a sales funnel for products or services.
Instagram Live’s Pricing:
Accessing Instagram is free, and the live feature has no hidden fees. For creators to receive payouts, they need to accumulate a minimum of $100 in their account. Once you hit this amount, you can request a payout.
Main Advantages of Instagram Live:
With features like Stories and IGTV, you can create a comprehensive content strategy that keeps your audience engaged. Engaging content can also quickly spread across the platform, giving you a higher potential for virality.
Main Disadvantages of Instagram Live:
The platform's algorithm can make it challenging to reach new audiences without significant effort. And while monetization options exist, they may not be as rewarding as those on dedicated streaming platforms.
4. YouTube Live
YouTube Live allows creators to connect with their audiences live on one of the largest video-sharing sites. It’s a great option for sharing experiences, hosting events, or engaging with followers over various niche topics.
YouTube Live’s Key Features:
Users can broadcast live videos directly to their subscribers, interacting through live chat and responding to comments. You also have the option to invite guests to join your stream. After your live broadcast, it can be archived for later viewing, helping you reach more viewers over time.
Monetization Options:
You need to be part of the YouTube Partner Program or YPP to earn money from your livestreams. This requires at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months. Once you’re in the program, you can make livestream money through Super Chats, where viewers pay to highlight their messages during your stream. You can also earn revenue from ads shown in your live broadcasts.
YouTube has a payout threshold of $100. You’ll need to reach this amount in your account before requesting a payout. The platform takes about 45% of ad revenue, so you’ll need a good number of views and engagements to reach your payout goal.
YouTube Live’s Pricing:
Using YouTube Live is free if you have a verified YouTube account. There are no extra costs to start streaming.
Main Advantages of YouTube Live:
A major benefit is the large audience potential. Engaging content can quickly gain traction, and saving your livestreams helps keep viewers interested even after the broadcast ends. Users can navigate to their YouTube homepage's ‘Live’ section to find recommended streams based on their algorithm and watch history, helping you build the right audience. Plus, each live has a chat function that creators can turn on or off to allow viewers to message the group during the stream.
Main Disadvantages of YouTube Live:
On the downside, the eligibility requirements for monetization can be a hurdle for new creators. Additionally, competition is high, so consistent quality and engagement are necessary to stand out.
5. Facebook Live
Facebook allows users to go live and connect with followers directly. Whether you're sharing updates, hosting an event, or just chatting with your audience, you can use live videos on Facebook to engage your followers in real-time.
Facebook Live’s Key Features:
Starting a broadcast is easy — just grab your phone or sit at your computer. Viewers can comment and react as you go, making it an interactive experience. Plus, after your live broadcast, you can save the video to your timeline so anyone who missed it can catch up later. There are no specific follower requirements to start a live broadcast; you just need to have a Facebook account in good standing.
Monetization Options:
You need a professional or business account to monetize your livestreams. Only professional accounts can access features like Stars, where viewers can buy Stars to support broadcasts. Facebook takes about 30% of earnings from this feature. The Meta Business Suite can also help you manage your live content and explore monetization tools like ads.
You need to accumulate at least $100 to request a payout, which is fairly standard across platforms.
Facebook Live’s Pricing:
Using Facebook Live is free. You only need a Facebook account to start broadcasting.
Ideal for:
Whether you’re a small business owner, a content creator, or someone with a Facebook community, you can use Facebook Live to connect with people interested in your work. Do keep in mind that demographics matter – while TikTok’s main user base is 18-24 years old, Facebook’s is 25-34.
Main Advantages of Facebook Live:
As of 2024, Facebook is the largest social media platform with 3.07 billion monthly active users worldwide – so if you know how to attract viewers, you can likely find them on Facebook.
Main Disadvantages of Facebook Live:
Facebook's algorithm can make it challenging for your content to be seen by new viewers unless you’re actively promoting it. And while monetization options exist, they may not be as robust as those found on more dedicated streaming platforms.
6. Twitch
Founded in 2011, Twitch is a dedicated streaming platform with over 240 million monthly active users. It’s especially popular among gamers but is increasingly catering to a wider range of content creators, whether you’re streaming gameplay, hosting a talk show, or showcasing your creative process.
Twitch’s Key Features:
Broadcasting on Twitch is straightforward. The platform gives streamers tools to interact with viewers through chat. You can also customize your stream with overlays, alerts for new followers, and various interactive features to enhance viewer engagement.
Monetization Options:
Creators need to be part of the Affiliate or Partner Program to make money from Twitch streams. For the Affiliate Program, you must have at least 50 followers, stream for a minimum of 500 total minutes in the last 30 days, and maintain an average of three concurrent viewers. Once you qualify, you can earn through subscriptions, Bits (which viewers purchase to support you), and ad revenue.
Twitch typically pays out when you reach a $100 threshold, which can be accumulated from subscriptions, Bits, and ad revenue. However, the platform takes a percentage from subscriptions, usually around 50%.
Twitch’s Pricing:
Creating an account and going live on Twitch is free. While your viewers can support you through paid subscriptions or Bits, there are no fees to start streaming.
Ideal for:
Twitch is perfect for creators who want to build a community and engage with their audience at length. Most streams run for hours, making it especially well-suited for gamers and commentators.
Main Advantages of Twitch:
One of Twitch's biggest advantages is its community aspect. Viewers often feel a personal connection with streamers, which can lead to loyal followings. As it’s a dedicated platform for streamers, engagement rates are high.
Main Disadvantages of Twitch:
Competition is fierce. It can be challenging for new streamers to grow their audience amidst many established creators. Additionally, the monetization options require meeting specific criteria, which may take time to achieve.
7. X (Twitter)
X (formerly Twitter) allows users to engage with their audience through streaming, making it ideal for sharing real-time news and updates.
X’s Key Features:
Broadcasting is straightforward on mobiles, just tap to go live from the app. Viewers can join, comment, and share the stream, increasing visibility. To go live on X from your desktop, you'll need a premium account and have to connect your account to a third-party streaming service. Additionally, you can host Twitter Spaces, which are audio rooms for live discussions, providing another layer of engagement with your audience.
Monetization Options:
You can use features like Super Follows, where fans pay for exclusive content, with X taking a 3% cut. You can also earn from Tip Jar, a feature allowing followers to send tips during streams. Additionally, participating in Twitter Spaces can open up sponsorship opportunities, as brands may want to collaborate with you for live discussions. Typically, you need to reach a $50 threshold for payouts from these features.
X’s Pricing:
Going live on X is free; all you need is an account. While some monetization features may require eligibility, streaming itself has no cost.
Ideal for:
X is best for creators who already have a following on the platform and want to facilitate real-time discussions with followers, particularly through Twitter Spaces.
Main Advantages of X:
The immediacy of X allows for rapid audience engagement. Users can see when their mutuals are engaged in a Twitter space, boosting your chances of finding new listeners.
Main Disadvantages of X:
However, the audience potential may be smaller, and monetization options are still developing.
8. Kick.com
Kick is a newer platform founded in 2022 that’s gaining traction among streamers, particularly for gaming and creative content.
Kick’s Key Features:
Starting a livestream on Kick is straightforward, and the platform's clean interface makes broadcasting easy. The platform encourages interaction through chat features, and viewers can engage directly with streamers during their broadcasts.
Monetization Options:
Here’s the kicker (if you’ll forgive the pun): Kick offers various monetization options, including subscriptions and donations from viewers. Unlike many platforms, Kick has a more creator-friendly revenue share, taking only a small percentage of earnings (around 5%). You’ll typically need to reach a $100 threshold to request a payout, making it accessible for many creators.
Kick’s Pricing:
Streaming on Kick is free, and there are no costs associated with setting up your account or going live. Monetization options are available without hefty fees.
Ideal for:
Kick is a good platform for creators who mostly stream. It’s particularly appealing for gamers and those looking to build a dedicated following of watchers.
Main Advantages of Kick:
While Kick’s user base may not be as big as Twitch, it’s still growing rapidly. Plus, their payout scheme rivals Twitch’s dramatically.
Main Disadvantages of Kick:
Being a newer platform, it may lack the features and user base found on more established platforms.
9. LinkedIn Live
LinkedIn Live offers a platform for professionals to broadcast live video content, making it an excellent choice for networking events, webinars, and industry discussions.
LinkedIn Live’s Key Features:
Getting started with LinkedIn Live involves applying for access, which ensures that broadcasts maintain a professional standard. Once you’re approved, you can engage with your audience through live chat, enhancing the interactive experience.
Monetization Options:
LinkedIn Live doesn’t have built-in monetization options like subscriptions or donations. However, creators can leverage livestreams for brand partnerships, sponsorships, and promoting their services or products. As for payouts, since monetization is not direct, earnings depend on external opportunities rather than platform-based payouts.
LinkedIn Live’s Pricing:
Streaming on LinkedIn Live is free, but you need a LinkedIn account, and you must apply for access to the live feature.
Ideal for:
LinkedIn Live is ideal for professionals, businesses, and educators looking to share insights, host discussions, or connect with their network in a live format.
Main Advantages of LinkedIn Live:
One major advantage is the professional audience, which can lead to valuable networking opportunities and potential collaborations. The focus on business content sets it apart from more casual streaming platforms.
Main Disadvantages of LinkedIn Live:
The lack of direct monetization options means creators rely on external methods to generate income from their streams. Additionally, the approval process may delay access to the feature.
10. Uscreen
Uscreen is a platform designed for creators looking to monetize video content through subscriptions and on-demand streaming. It’s a great option for educators, fitness trainers, and entertainers.
Uscreen’s Key Features:
Users can create a customizable storefront to showcase their videos. The platform also offers livestreaming capabilities.
Monetization Options:
Uscreen offers many monetization options, including subscriptions and one-time purchases. However, creators are charged a monthly fee per active subscriber, with rates varying based on your account type. Uscreen takes around 5% of your earnings, and you’ll typically need to reach a payout threshold of $100. Additional subscriber fees apply for in-app purchases via platforms like Apple and Google.
If you exceed the included storage minutes or livestreaming hours, additional charges will apply – $99 for an extra 10,000 minutes or $15 per hour of overage for livestreaming. Payment processing fees apply as well, with standard rates including 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction through Uscreen's gateway.
Uscreen’s Pricing:
Plans start at $49 per month. This includes essential features for streaming and monetization, but keep in mind that additional fees for storage and active subscribers can accumulate, impacting overall costs.
Ideal for:
Uscreen is ideal for content creators who want to build a subscription-based revenue model, particularly those in education, fitness, or entertainment.
Main Advantages of Uscreen:
One of Uscreen’s main advantages is the customizable storefront that allows effective brand marketing. The subscription model also provides a more predictable income stream.
Main Disadvantages of Uscreen:
Monthly fees and transaction costs can be barriers for some creators, especially those just starting. Additionally, the platform may not have the same audience reach as more social media-focused platforms.
11. Vimeo Livestream
Founded in 2004, Vimeo is a major player in video hosting, especially for live events, webinars, and other high-quality video content. It caters to professionals and businesses looking to deliver polished broadcasts.
Vimeo’s Key Features:
Vimeo offers integration with various devices and a user-friendly interface for managing live broadcasts. It includes features like customizable players and detailed analytics to track viewer engagement, helping creators refine their content strategy.
Monetization Options:
Vimeo provides several monetization options, including pay-per-view events and subscription models. The platform takes a 5% cut of earnings from pay-per-view streams. For subscriptions, fees may vary based on your pricing structure.
Vimeo’s Pricing:
Livestream is only available with advanced plans. This plan includes essential streaming features, while the Enterprise package provides even more tools and customization options for larger organizations. Additional fees may apply for extra storage or advanced features.
Ideal for:
Vimeo suits organizations, educators, and businesses that need to deliver high-quality video content to their audiences.
Main Advantages of Vimeo:
Vimeo emphasizes high-quality video, which can enhance your brand’s credibility. Plus, it has detailed analytics tools that provide valuable insights into viewer behavior.
Main Disadvantages of Vimeo:
On the downside, Vimeo’s pricing can be a barrier for smaller creators or those just starting. Additionally, its audience reach may not be as extensive as more social media-centric options.
12. Dacast
Dacast has been around since 2013. It’s a dedicated streaming platform that focuses on live and on-demand video. It's designed for businesses, educators, and organizations wanting to reach their audience with high-quality broadcasts.
Dacast’s Key Features:
Dacast offers a range of features. It has customizable video players, cloud storage, and analytics tools to help you understand viewer engagement. Over 300,000 professional broadcasters and businesses use Dacast.
Monetization Options:
With Dacast, you can utilize 3 different monetization models: subscriptions, pay-per-view, and ad revenue. Dacast collects all payments via a secure paywall before users can access your content. Then, it credits your account with a balance stating revenue earned.
To request a payout, you must earn at least $100 USD. The first time you ask for a payout, a 35-day delay occurs.
Dacast’s Pricing:
The starter plan, which has basic features, costs $39 monthly. More advanced plans offer additional storage and features for larger organizations, and pricing scales accordingly.
Ideal for:
Dacast suits businesses, educational institutions, and professional content creators looking for a more robust streaming solution with solid analytics.
Main Advantages of Dacast:
Its API access allows for more advanced integration, making it a versatile choice for tech-savvy creators. The platform offers high-quality streaming and customization options so streamers can create a branded experience.
Main Disadvantages of Dacast:
Dacast’s pricing can be a barrier for smaller creators, and some users may find the interface less intuitive than that of more mainstream platforms.
13. Brightcove
Brightcove is designed for businesses and organizations that require reliable video solutions for live events, marketing, and training.
Brightcove’s Key Features:
Creators can access a multitude of features, including livestreaming, video on demand, and a detailed analytics dashboard. The platform also provides customizable players and support for multiple devices, ensuring a smooth viewing experience for your audience.
Monetization Options:
Various monetization strategies are available, including subscription models and pay-per-view events. The platform takes a percentage of earnings, which may vary based on your agreement. As usual, you need a minimum of $100 earned to withdraw funds.
Brightcove’s Pricing:
Brightcove’s pricing is tailored for enterprises and can be customized based on your specific needs. While the exact cost varies, expect plans to start around $199 per month, with additional fees for advanced features and services.
Ideal for:
Ideal for medium-to-large businesses and organizations looking for a comprehensive video solution with strong analytics and branding options.
Main Advantages of Brightcove:
One major advantage of Brightcove is its scalability. It’s suitable for various business sizes and needs. The detailed analytics help you understand viewer engagement and optimize your content strategy.
Main Disadvantages of Brightcove:
As Brightcove is tailored for professional forms of streaming, it’s not well-suited to social media streamers, gamers, or entertainment creators.
14. Wowza
Wowza was founded in 2007 to provide powerful solutions for broadcasters, businesses, and developers.
Wowza’s Key Features:
Wowza features multistreaming integrations, which make it well-suited for delivering high-quality video content across various platforms. Its API allows for extensive customization, making it a favorite among developers.
Monetization Options:
Unlike other platforms we’ve mentioned, Wowza doesn’t handle monetization directly. Instead, it enables you to set up your monetization strategy through integrations with other platforms.
Payout terms and percentages will depend on the specific service you choose to monetize your streams.
Wowza’s Pricing:
Wowza operates on a subscription basis, with plans starting around $65 monthly for the Wowza Streaming Engine. More advanced plans, such as Wowza Streaming Cloud, have varying costs based on usage and additional features.
Ideal for:
Ideal for developers, businesses, and broadcasters seeking flexible and powerful livestreaming and video delivery.
Main Advantages of Wowza:
Wowza’s biggest advantages are its flexibility and scalability, allowing you to adapt your streaming strategy and needs as you grow. The platform’s advanced features provide high control over the streaming experience.
Main Disadvantages of Wowza:
Wowza may have a steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy users. Plus, based on usage and feature requirements, costs can really start to add up.
15. Kaltura
Kaltura has a focus on industries such as education, media, and enterprises. It’s become well-known for its strong emphasis on video management and integrations.
Kaltura’s Key Features:
The platform offers a comprehensive suite of tools for livestreaming, video hosting, and on-demand content. Features include customizable video players, advanced analytics, and the ability to integrate with various learning management systems, making Kaltura a perfect choice for educational institutions.
Monetization Options:
Kaltura supports monetization through subscription and pay-per-view models. The platform typically charges a percentage of earnings, and you’ll need to meet a minimum payout threshold of around $100.
Kaltura’s Pricing:
Kaltura's pricing is customized to each user based on needs and usage. While no standard pricing is listed, plans often start at around $99 monthly, with costs increasing based on additional features and enterprise-level solutions.
Ideal for:
Best suited for educational institutions, media companies, and large-scale businesses that need an extensive video platform with many integrations and management features.
Main Advantages of Kaltura:
Kaltura's main selling point is its capability to cater to various industries, especially professional education and work, with streaming features for classes, events, webinars, and meetings.
Main Disadvantages of Kaltura:
Kaltura can be complex and requires some technical knowledge to fully utilize its features. Its pricing structure may not be as transparent, making it challenging to estimate costs upfront. For creators, a platform like Kaltura is not necessary to build a thriving livestream community.
Making the Most of Your Livestreams
For some, livestreaming is simply a method of better connecting with an audience. For most, however, you’ll want to eventually be able to leverage your livestreams into tangible means of monetization.
As we’ve learned, most platforms offer some kind of payout system for creators – but reaching minimum withdrawal amounts only to have eye-watering (in some cases, over 50%) cuts taken can be disheartening, to say the least.
Our advice? Use social media’s algorithms and reach to your advantage in building your audience originally. Then, once you have created a genuine interest in your livestreams, funnel audiences to the platform that gives you the best compensation for your efforts.
Livestream to Your Community With Whop
Ready to start streaming and making money? Sign up to Whop.
You can create your own whop, which is your own slice of the internet where you add apps easily and start building your audience. Create a community, offer free and paid livestream access, sell digital products and services, host chatrooms, and so much more.
The best part is, it only takes a few minutes to set up. Sign up to Whop and get started today!
FAQs
Where can I stream live for free?
You can stream live for free on many social media platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. These platforms allow you to broadcast without any upfront costs, although they may take a percentage of your earnings if you monetize your streams.
What are the most popular livestreaming platforms?
Twitch is the most popular dedicated streaming platform, with 240 million monthly active visitors. The most popular social media streaming platforms are YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok. Each platform caters to different audiences and content types, so the best choice depends on your specific goals as a creator.
What is the cheapest way to livestream?
The cheapest way to broadcast live is often through platforms like Facebook or Instagram, which allow free broadcasting. However, if you're looking for monetization options with no upfront fees, Whop is a great choice. Signing up and running livestreams is free, allowing users to keep 97% of their earnings.
Where can I stream privately?
For private streaming, consider using platforms like Whop or Vimeo, which offer settings to limit audience access.
Which platform is the best for livestreaming?
The best platform for you is the one with the features you need, an affordable plan, and the fairest payout scheme. You’ll also want to consider your niche, audience, and goals. Twitch excels with gaming, and YouTube and TikTok are popular choices for casual, unfiltered content. Whop is a great fit if you're focused on creating communities, selling digital products, or creating courses.
