Interested in livestreaming? Recording podcasts? Hosting virtual shows? Then you’ve probably come across StreamYard and Riverside. StreamYard makes it effortless to go live right from your browser, while Riverside focuses on professional recordings without the need for a studio.
Both platforms aim to help creators, but which one’s the best fit for you? That’s what we’re here for!
Let’s jump right into comparing them head-to-head, with their pricing, features, and reviews included.
Key takeaways
- Riverside is designed for high-quality recording with studio-level audio and video, making it ideal for podcasters, interviewers, and creators who want clean, editable content. StreamYard is focused on livestreaming and audience engagement, helping creators broadcast to multiple platforms simultaneously with polished branding.
- Riverside records each participant locally in 4K and supports multitrack recording, giving full control in editing. StreamYard records in the cloud, typically as a single combined stream, offering limited built-in editing options.
- StreamYard excels at live broadcasting, with multi-platform streaming, on-screen comments, custom branding, and webinar support. Riverside also supports livestreaming, but positions it as a secondary feature to its recording capabilities.
- Riverside includes AI-powered features like Magic Audio, speaker detection, AI transcripts, and Clips for quick highlights. StreamYard does not currently offer advanced AI tools, focusing more on stable, user-friendly livestreaming.
- Riverside offers affordable plans starting from free up to custom business tiers, making it accessible for creators focused on recording and editing. StreamYard’s plans are higher-tiered, ranging from free to enterprise-level, catering to creators prioritizing livestreaming, team collaboration, and professional-looking broadcasts.
StreamYard Overview
StreamYard is a livestreaming and webinar studio that runs right in your browser. It’s built for creators, businesses, and anyone who wants to go live without dealing with complicated tech setups. Instead of downloading heavy software, you just open StreamYard in Chrome or Edge, connect your equipment (if you like using it), and you’re ready to broadcast.
One of StreamYard’s biggest strengths is how easy it makes multi-platform streaming. With just a few clicks, you can go live on YouTube, Facebook, and more, all at the same time. You can also bring in guests simply by sending them a link, no accounts or installs needed.
The platform also lets you brand your streams with your own logos, colors, backgrounds, and overlays, so your broadcast feels polished and on-brand. You can also display viewer comments on screen in real time, making audience interaction seamless.
For podcasters and content creators, StreamYard also records your sessions, giving you clean audio and video files to repurpose later.
Key features of StreamYard
- Multi-Platform Streaming - Go live on YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and more simultaneously, so you reach your audience wherever they are.
- Guest Invitations - Bring in guests with a simple link, no downloads or accounts required.
- Custom Branding - Add your own logo, colors, backgrounds, overlays, and even intro/outro clips to make your stream look polished and professional.
- On-Screen Comments - Highlight viewer comments and questions live on screen to boost engagement and interaction.
- Screen Sharing - Share your screen for presentations, demos, or walkthroughs during your broadcast.
- Recording and Repurposing - Save high-quality recordings of your streams to use later as podcasts, clips, or full replays.
- Layouts and Banners - Use built-in layouts, lower thirds, and scrolling banners to organize and style your content.
- Browser-Based - Works directly in Chrome or Edge, no software installation needed.
- Stable Streaming - Runs on StreamYard’s cloud servers, so even if your internet is shaky, your broadcast stays smooth.
- Team Collaboration - Add team members or co-producers to help manage the show in real time.
- Green Screen Recording - Replace your background with any image or video you choose, thanks to the built-in green screen support.
StreamYard reviews
The last time I used this it clipped the beginning of a live recording, making it unusable and wasting the work we'd put in. They don't seem interested in fixing it - six weeks and counting. I paused my membership while hoping they've fixed it, but I've been charged anyway.
StreamYard is an excellent software for streaming on social media. I used the free version for over 1 year, and I almost have no bugs in the software. I experienced a bug twice, and it was repaired by a restart of my Mac. I will keep on using this streaming software in the future.
Unbelievably friendly! Willing to assist in, set up and great at following through with what they say they will do. Best streaming platform I have used yet!
I’ve been using StreamYard since 2018 and I’ve always appreciated the platform, timely updates and fast-response to any issues we’ve had. I use both the livestream and recording functions 3-4 times per week.
Riverside overview
Riverside first launched in 2020 with one big goal: to make remote recording sound and look like it was done in a professional studio. Instead of depending on an internet connection that can cut in and out, Riverside records each person locally on their own device in high-quality audio and video (up to 4K). The files are then uploaded automatically in the background, so you get crystal-clear results no matter what happens during the call.
Additionally, with Riverside, you can livestream your sessions directly to platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, or Facebook, and even open the floor for audience members to call in. It’s a platform designed with creators in mind, making it easy to get quality results.
Key features of Riverside
- 4K Local Recording - Everyone’s audio and video is captured straight from their own device, so the final files stay unaffected by internet glitches.
- Multitrack Capture - Each participant gets their own track, giving you more control and flexibility when it’s time to edit.
- Studio-Grade Audio - Delivers rich, professional sound that feels like it was recorded in a studio.
- Remote-Friendly - Guests can hop in from anywhere through a simple browser link, no bulky software or downloads required.
- Producer Mode - Keep an eye on the session as it happens, adjust settings on the fly, and make sure everything runs seamlessly.
- Clips Feature - Quickly create bite-sized, shareable moments from your recordings, perfect for posting on social media.
- Screen Sharing - Ideal for tutorials, presentations, or walking someone through a product demo.
- AI Speaker Detection - Automatically identifies who’s speaking and separates their tracks, making editing much smoother.
- Browser-Based Platform - Runs directly in Chrome or Edge without the hassle of installing extra software.
Riverside reviews
Great when it works as expected. It can save a lot of time and effort on editing. The issue I have is with support. I've run into two issues, and the response is underwhelming. Being sent links that's the equivalent of saying it's not us, it's you, is not remotely helpful. Especially when, after back and forth, they end up having to acknowledge the issue on their end.
Poor poor poor. For the money they charge, there are always issues. We will be moving when our annual sub expires!! No native Windows version of the software is another joke.
It's been super simple to start a podcast with limited knowledge and as a complete rookie in editing and hosting. I really appreciate the simple tools and the great customer service. The link to publishing on Spotify is also amazing.
The Mac app froze and shut down part way into a live presentation - with many of the audience leaving as we tried to re-enter via the browser. Won't be using it again!
StreamYard VS Riverside: Feature comparison
Now, let’s break down the difference between the key features of Riverside and StreamYard. This comparison will help you see which platform fits your needs best.
Recording
Riverside is built with recording quality at its core. It captures each participant locally on their own device, which means you always get clean, high-resolution files (up to 4K video and uncompressed audio) that aren’t affected by internet hiccups. It also supports multitrack recording, giving every guest their own separate file for flexible editing later on.
StreamYard, on the other hand, records everything in the cloud. This makes it easy and seamless since you don’t have to worry about file uploads, but it does mean the quality can dip if your internet connection is unstable. The platform mostly captures combined streams rather than separate tracks, so editing options are more limited compared to Riverside.
Editing
Riverside comes with a built-in editor that allows you to trim, cut, and polish recordings right inside the platform. Its Clips feature is especially handy for quickly creating short, shareable highlights for social media. With AI speaker detection, Riverside can also split tracks by speaker, making the editing process faster and more organized.
StreamYard doesn’t focus much on editing. While you can download your recordings and edit them externally, the built-in tools are fairly minimal. At most, you can trim live stream replays for redistribution, but it doesn’t offer the same depth of editing options as Riverside.
Streaming
For Riverside, streaming feels more like a secondary feature; it’s there if you need it, but the real strength of this platform is in its recording.
Meanwhile, StreamYard was designed around streaming from day one. It makes it easy to broadcast to multiple platforms at the same time. It also gives you tools to fully customize your broadcast, from adding logos and overlays to playing intro and outro clips. On top of that, you can pull viewer comments directly onto the screen to keep your streams engaging and interactive.
AI Tools
Riverside integrates several AI-powered tools to speed up production. Its Magic Audio feature automatically removes background noise and balances volume for studio-like sound. The AI speaker detection tool identifies who’s talking and organizes their tracks, while AI transcriptions provide instant text versions of your recordings in multiple languages. Riverside’s Clips feature also uses AI to find engaging moments and turn them into shareable highlights.
StreamYard, on the other hand, doesn’t currently offer advanced AI tools. Its focus is more on providing a smooth, reliable streaming experience rather than post-production automation.
Media and Add-Ons
Riverside keeps things streamlined with essentials like screen sharing for presentations or product demos, multitrack files for detailed editing, and its Clips tool for easy social sharing.
StreamYard leans more into broadcast-style media options. You can upload pre-recorded videos, add intro/outro clips, play background music, and even use its green screen feature to swap out your background for custom images or videos. These extras give streams a polished, TV-like feel.
In short, if your priority is high-quality recording, editing, and AI-powered production tools, Riverside is the stronger choice. It’s ideal for podcasters, interviewers, and creators who want studio-level results without the hassle of a studio. But if your main focus is live streaming, audience engagement, and branded broadcasts, StreamYard is what you need. It’s built to help you run smooth, professional-looking live shows that keep viewers involved in real time.
StreamYard VS Riverside: Price comparison
Every creator has a budget and a dream setup. Let’s see what StreamYard and Riverside offer to their users, from free options to the best plans, so you can pick what works best for you.
StreamYard pricing
As of now, StreamYard provides five different plans, including a free option, so creators can choose based on their workflow and budget:
Free Plan: You can start streaming without spending a dime. This tier gives you access to essential studio tools right in your browser, no downloads needed. You’ll have StreamYard branding on your output, limited storage, dark mode, and up to 2 hours of local recording per month. You can feature up to 6 on-screen participants and utilize basic functions like dark mode.
Core Plan: This is StreamYard’s most popular individual offering, usually priced around $44.99/month (may vary slightly depending on region). It upgrades your streaming experience significantly: you get Full HD (1080p), no StreamYard watermark, and multistreaming to up to three platforms simultaneously. Branding tools like logos, overlays, backgrounds, intro/outro videos are included. You can feature up to 10 on-screen participants, use reusable studios, stream pre-recorded videos (up to 2 hours), and access 50 hours of permanent storage.
Advanced Plan: Perfect for creators and professionals aiming for higher-end production, this tier hooks you up with 4K local recordings, advanced multistreaming (to 8 platforms), an extra camera input, and up to 15 backstage participants. It supports longer pre-recorded streams (up to 4 hours) and allows you to run on-air webinars for up to 1,000 viewers. You also get downloadable transcripts and more user seats, great for collaborative teams. Pricing is typically around $88.99/month.
Teams Plan: This tier steps into team and enterprise territory. Priced at about $298.99/month, it handles high-volume production with on-air webinars for up to 10,000 viewers, enhanced backstage control, and the Greenroom for guest prep. It offers longer pre-recorded stream durations (up to 8 hours), supports 10 team seats, and includes extra resources designed for scalable content production.
Business (Enterprise) Plan: StreamYard’s top-level, fully customizable offering, pricing varies, and must be obtained via consultation. It builds on everything in the Teams tier while adding enterprise-level features like Single Sign-On (SSO), enhanced security, uptime SLAs, customizable roles, 700+ hours of storage, Spaces for multi-team collaboration, and priority support. It’s designed for large organizations and high-stakes streaming workflows.
For more information, visit the StreamYard Plans and Pricing page.
Riverside Pricing
Currently, Riverside offers four subscription tiers, giving users flexibility depending on their needs and budget:
Free plan: A simple way to get started. You can record with one guest per session, though recording time is limited and video quality tops out at 720p. Exports carry a watermark, and core features are available, but extras like multitrack recording or unlimited guests aren’t included.
Pro plan: Priced at $29 per month, this plan is built for creators who want more flexibility. It gives you 4K video recording, unlimited editing tools, and up to 15 hours of multitrack sessions each month, making it easier to capture and polish professional-quality content.
Live plan: At $39 per month, the Live plan combines recording and streaming power. You still get 15 hours of multitrack recording (separate audio and video for each participant) and unlimited editing, but also advanced live-streaming options. Live chat support is also available whenever you need help.
Business plan: Designed for teams and enterprises, this plan offers custom pricing along with premium perks. Think unlimited participants, producer mode for session oversight, branded experiences, enhanced collaboration tools, priority support, and other advanced options tailored to bigger production workflows.
For the full breakdown, visit the Riverside Plans and Pricing page.
Pricing summary
Summing up, Riverside is great for podcasters, video creators, and remote interviewers who prioritize high-quality recordings, separate audio/video tracks, and built-in editing tools at a relatively affordable price. StreamYard, on the other hand, is better suited for creators focused on live-streaming, multi-platform broadcasts, and audience engagement, with strong branding options and webinar features.
Podcastle: The best alternative for recording and editing with AI
If you’re looking for a single tool that handles high-quality recording, fast editing, AI-powered enhancements, and easy publishing, Podcastle makes the entire process painless and satisfying. Instead of juggling multiple apps, you just follow a straightforward workflow: record, edit, polish with AI, export, and stream.
Some of the features creators love most about Podcastle include:
- Studio-Quality Audio and Video Recording - Capture crystal-clear sound and video straight from your device, giving your projects a professional edge without any must-have equipment and skills.
- Multitrack Recording - Each participant gets their own track, making editing smoother and giving you maximum flexibility for post-production.
- Life-like 1000+ AI Voices - Pick from a variety of lifelike voices with different accents, tones, and styles to match your storytelling.
- Precise Text-to-Speech Conversion - Turn scripts into realistic voiceovers and edit your audio directly by updating your text.
- AI Noise Removal - Remove background noise instantly to keep your recordings clean and distraction-free.
- Magic Dust - Enhance your recordings with one click, balancing levels and sharpening clarity automatically.
- Realistic Voice Cloning - Create a custom AI version of your own voice for consistent, personal narration.
- AI Eye Contact Fixer - Adjust your gaze so it always looks like you’re speaking directly to your audience.
- Teleprompter - Keep your script visible only to you and not your guests, so you are always prepared and professional.
- All-in-One Editor - Edit both audio and video inside Podcastle, no need for extra software.
With reasonable plans starting at just $11.99 per month, Podcastle is designed to be both affordable and flexible, supporting creators of all types and team sizes. By combining powerful AI tools with cloud-based storage, it makes every stage of content creation better, the process smoother, more efficient, and even fun. Start using Podcastle today and see how easy it can be to bring your creative ideas to life with just a few clicks.
