!["[Updated] OBS versus ShadowPlay - Streaming Software Showdown"](https://www.lifewire.com/thmb/EAqZr-HjkZo5i0jwoEEUqZxRCpc=/400x300/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-1437209125-b47ae60035f248e2b01b781f50f919c1.jpg)
"[Updated] OBS versus ShadowPlay - Streaming Software Showdown"
![](/images/site-logo.png)
OBS versus ShadowPlay - Streaming Software Showdown
If you are an avid gamer and you are not recording your gameplay and uploading on online platforms, you are missing out on the trend. Gamers are uploading their gameplay on video streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube and earning followers, fame as well as money. No matter which game you play on your computer, you should record it. Thereafter, you can make it interesting with editing and voiceover and upload on video streaming and social media platforms.
Primarily, you will need a gameplay recording software and there is no dearth of gameplay and screen recording software. The two most popular free gameplay recorders are OBS Studio and ShadowPlay. In order to help you choose OBS or ShadowPlay, we have provided you with a complete comparison of ShadowPlay vs OBS recording software. Go through all the points minutely and understand their differences and pick the perfect one for recording your gameplay.
Part 1. Key Features of OBS and ShadowPlay
OBS and ShadowPlay are both completely free to use for recording your gameplay as well as your capturing desktop screen. OBS is open-source software and it has a cross-platform structure which is why it supports all computer operating systems. It is popular among gamers for live streaming on Twitch and YouTube.
ShadowPlay comes from Nvidia which is the largest manufacturer for GPU. That is why gamers who prefer Nvidia GPU, they have a special preference for ShadowPlay. Here are the key features of OBS and ShadowPlay you should be aware of.
OBS Studio
Screen Capture - You can capture high-quality gameplay when you play games on your computer as well as on a gaming console. You can tweak the parameters on video quality so that you can get the recording just like you want.
Webcam Capture - OBS lets you add webcam as an overlay so that you can record your gameplay as well as show your reaction so that the recording is more interactive and engaging. You can also use green screen setup to make the video more professional and eye-catching.
Better Audio - You can record your game sound as well as your voice from external mic. This is useful for voiceover and live commentary to make the video interesting and showcase your personality traits verbally. There are also audio filters, audio mixers, and audio effects available to apply.
Advanced Editor - The built-in editing software allows performing different post-recording tasks like sharpening, cropping, and color correction. It has advanced filters that enable Chroma keying, image masking, and color correction.
Easy Switching - It comes with a one-click solution for switching between transitions and scenes. The tool can be perfect for going back and forth between games and devices. You can also add multiple screens and audio sources as required.
Most importantly, you can live stream your gameplay on almost any online video streaming platform.
Nvidia ShadowPlay
Gameplay Capture - ShadowPlay lets you record gameplay at 8K with 30FPS. This is unmatched by any free video recording software. You can also record gameplay at 4K HDR with 60FPS. It comes with hardware acceleration to ensure the performance does not get affected while recording in the background.
Instant Replay - ShadowPlay keeps recording in the background and therefore, if something important has happened in the game, you can get the last 30 seconds of instant replay clip and you can share it anywhere you want. This is highly useful to share short clips on social media platforms.
ShadowPlay Highlights - The feature will automatically record the best gaming moments and create a perfect highlight video. This is useful when you want to upload the best parts of the gameplay rather than the entire part.
Screenshots - ShadowPlay lets you capture 8K screenshots of your game that you can use as thumbnails for your videos as well as put them up on social media platforms.
GIF Creator - With ShadowPlay, you don’t have to leave the game to create GIFs. You can create high-quality GIFs of duration 15 seconds. You can also add text to the GIFs and share anything you want.
Just like OBS, ShadowPlay enables you to broadcast gameplay in real-time on YouTube Live, Twitch, and Facebook Live.
Part 2. Comparison ShadowPlay vs OBS
Here are the key points of differences between OBS and ShadowPlay that will help you decide between OBS or ShadowPlay.
ShadowPlay vs OBS Recording:
While recording, OBS allows faster processing of the recorded video files. Besides, it can compress the file size during the encoding process so that the recorded video files take relatively less space. This makes it ideal for longer sessions of gameplay recording. However, in the process, OBS can reduce the frame rate significantly, and hence, the video may not be as smooth as you expect it to be. Therefore, OBS is suitable for regular game recording where not much compression is required.
On the contrary, ShadowPlay does not reduce the file size or frame rate, and hence, it is a great choice for high-end games where you need the recorded to be as smooth as possible. However, ShadowPlay requires more space on the hard drive. When you upload on video streaming platforms, there will be some automatic compression. Therefore, the less compression you do during your encoding phase, the better will be the output.
ShadowPlay vs OBS Performance:
OBS uses significant CPU power and resources. This is one of the reasons why it reduces the frame rate while recording to use less CPU resources. In fact, it can affect the game performance if you are playing and recording a high-end game. However, you can customize various configuration parameters to reduce its burden on CPU performance.
ShadowPlay does not affect the CPU performance as it comes with hardware acceleration. It supports higher frame rates for high-end games as well. If at all, it can bring about 5%-10% effect on CPU performance which is almost ignorable in comparison to OBS.
ShadowPlay vs OBS File Format:
OBS consumes less space for recorded videos. It compresses the format which can drastically reduce the output file size. The best thing about OBS is that it comes with the NVENC hardware encoded chip that allows choosing from different supported file formats.
On the contrary, ShadowPlay supports MP4 formats by default which makes it require more space. It uses codec. MP4 file format is the most popular video file format that you can play across all media players and upload on online platforms.
ShadowPlay vs OBS Live Streaming:
You cannot live stream as well as record on ShadowPlay. This is a major drawback that OBS has overcome. That is why most gamers prefer OBS Studio for live streaming as they can record the gaming session for future reference. If you want to just broadcast your gameplay, ShadowPlay is good enough. But if you want to have multiple scenes and overlay adjustments in live streaming, OBS is the best choice.
ShadowPlay vs OBS Editing:
OBS offers better editing options thanks to its built-in editor. Starting customizable transitions to real-time editing before broadcasting, OBS has different editing scopes tailor-made for gamers. On the contrary, ShadowPlay has very limited editing options as the main focus is on recording only. But if we talk about true video editing, both applications are still underdeveloped on this front.
Part 3. Alternative Way To Record Games
If you are looking for a premium gameplay recording software, we recommend Wondershare Filmora. Filmora is a perfect combination of screen recorder and professional video editor. In comparison to OBS or ShadowPlay, Filmora has better features and options in terms of editing. You can record your gameplay as well as webcam in overlay for professional recording. You can add video effects as well as audio effects to make the video more appealing. Here are the steps to record gameplay with Filmora.
For Win 7 or later (64-bit)
For macOS 10.12 or later
Step 1: Download and install Wondershare Filmora. Open Filmora and click on PC Screen option to record your gameplay.
Step 2: Select the recording screen size which is likely to be full screen for gaming. You can select the microphone if you want to record your voice for live commentary. Besides, turn on Record the Camera Stream option if you want your face video to be present as an overlay.
Step 3: To start recording, click on Record button. You will get a few buffer seconds to switch to your game after which recording will start automatically.
You can press F9 key to stop recording. You can edit the recorded gameplay and export in any desired file format.
Conclusion
If you want to record high-end games, ShadowPlay is ideal as it does not affect game performance as well as does not reduce frame rate. For not so high-end games, OBS does the job perfectly. OBS is particularly useful when you want to live stream as well as record your gameplay. If you are looking for a premium software and a better alternative, Wondershare Filmora is the perfect choice.
For macOS 10.12 or later
Step 1: Download and install Wondershare Filmora. Open Filmora and click on PC Screen option to record your gameplay.
Step 2: Select the recording screen size which is likely to be full screen for gaming. You can select the microphone if you want to record your voice for live commentary. Besides, turn on Record the Camera Stream option if you want your face video to be present as an overlay.
Step 3: To start recording, click on Record button. You will get a few buffer seconds to switch to your game after which recording will start automatically.
You can press F9 key to stop recording. You can edit the recorded gameplay and export in any desired file format.
Conclusion
If you want to record high-end games, ShadowPlay is ideal as it does not affect game performance as well as does not reduce frame rate. For not so high-end games, OBS does the job perfectly. OBS is particularly useful when you want to live stream as well as record your gameplay. If you are looking for a premium software and a better alternative, Wondershare Filmora is the perfect choice.
For macOS 10.12 or later
Step 1: Download and install Wondershare Filmora. Open Filmora and click on PC Screen option to record your gameplay.
Step 2: Select the recording screen size which is likely to be full screen for gaming. You can select the microphone if you want to record your voice for live commentary. Besides, turn on Record the Camera Stream option if you want your face video to be present as an overlay.
Step 3: To start recording, click on Record button. You will get a few buffer seconds to switch to your game after which recording will start automatically.
You can press F9 key to stop recording. You can edit the recorded gameplay and export in any desired file format.
Conclusion
If you want to record high-end games, ShadowPlay is ideal as it does not affect game performance as well as does not reduce frame rate. For not so high-end games, OBS does the job perfectly. OBS is particularly useful when you want to live stream as well as record your gameplay. If you are looking for a premium software and a better alternative, Wondershare Filmora is the perfect choice.
For macOS 10.12 or later
Step 1: Download and install Wondershare Filmora. Open Filmora and click on PC Screen option to record your gameplay.
Step 2: Select the recording screen size which is likely to be full screen for gaming. You can select the microphone if you want to record your voice for live commentary. Besides, turn on Record the Camera Stream option if you want your face video to be present as an overlay.
Step 3: To start recording, click on Record button. You will get a few buffer seconds to switch to your game after which recording will start automatically.
You can press F9 key to stop recording. You can edit the recorded gameplay and export in any desired file format.
Conclusion
If you want to record high-end games, ShadowPlay is ideal as it does not affect game performance as well as does not reduce frame rate. For not so high-end games, OBS does the job perfectly. OBS is particularly useful when you want to live stream as well as record your gameplay. If you are looking for a premium software and a better alternative, Wondershare Filmora is the perfect choice.
Also read:
- "\"2024 Approved PS5 Elite Gaming Screens Top 5 HDMI 2.1 Ultra High-Res Monitors\""
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved Superior Online Speech Recorders\""
- "\"2024 Approved Getting Acquainted with Zoom Segregated Sessions\""
- "[Updated] In 2024, Exploring Premium 9 Digital Mic Capture Tools"
- "In 2024, Minecraft Housing Ideas for Quick and Satisfying Building"
- "[New] In 2024, Top PPT Transformers for Videographers"
- "\"[Updated] Mac's Best Capture Exploring Leading Screen Recording Software for 2024\""
- "[Updated] Spectacular 10 Royale Skirmishes for 2024"
- "[Updated] In 2024, The Ultimate Guide to Cam Cover Selection"
- "\"[New] Cultivating Connections Friendly Games Growth with Friends on Farms for 2024\""
- "[Updated] In 2024, Capture Windows 11, Simplify Your Life"
- "[New] In 2024, Deep Dive Into Du Recorder's Design and Functionality"
- "\"[Updated] ChromeSnap Tracker OS Level Recording for 2024\""
- "\"[Updated] In 2024, Explore the Best No-Cost Video Meeting Apps - iOS/Android\""
- "[Updated] In 2024, ClearShot Vision Screen Recap"
- "In 2024, Top Sandbox Adventures Not To Skip!"
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved The Leading Free Software for Quality Desktop Recording\""
- "\"[New] In 2024, Affordable, Easy-to-Use Video Capture Tools for Windows\""
- "[New] Top 10 Free Video Capture Tools for Windows/Mac for 2024"
- "\"[Updated] In 2024, Apex Series Select 7 Top FPS Games\""
- "\"[New] Epic Playground The Top 10 Alternatives to Grand Theft Auto V\""
- "\"Brandless Screencasting at Your Fingertips (Fee-Free) for 2024\""
- "\"[Updated] Comparing Video Tools Bandicam & Camtasia Explored for 2024\""
- "[Updated] A Comprehensible List of Mac Snippers Ranked"
- "\"[Updated] The Complete Guide to Voice-Overs in Multimedia Projects\""
- "\"[Updated] QuickVision W11 Simple Desktop Capture Tool for 2024\""
- "Immaculate Visual Logging Systems"
- "[New] In 2024, Simple Screenshot Pro on Windows 10"
- "Mental Marathons in Elite Escapade Venues"
- "\"2024 Approved In-Depth Guide to Game Capturing Roblox & Mac Integration\""
- "[New] In 2024, Top 10 Windows 11 Webcam Capturers"
- "[New] Expertly Record Your Win11 Display"
- "\"2024 Approved Shielding Identity Video Blur and Privacy Preservation\""
- "\"[New] EyeDome Xtreme Ultimate OS Video Snapper\""
- "\"[New] Live Your Best Life The Ultimate List of Video Conferencing Gadgets\""
- "\"[New] In 2024, Fight to the End Nintendo's Top 10 Fighters\""
- "[New] In 2024, Expert Presentations to Video Files"
- "\"2024 Approved How to Preserve Your Gameplay for Future Replays\""
- "[New] In 2024, The Complete Checklist for Capturing Flawless PPTs"
- "\"[New] In 2024, Strategies to Soar Effective Chats on Google Meet\""
- "\"[Updated] 2024 Approved Bushido Code Continuation - Top Similar Game Experiences\""
- "\"[New] In 2024, Extensive Review Gecata Recording Device Analysis\""
- "[New] Improve OBS Rendering Speed and Quality"
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved Streamline Your Meetings with These Tools\""
- "\"[Updated] 2024 Approved Essential Free Nintendo Switch Games\""
- "\"[Updated] Ultimate Techniques Streaming Hulu on Win, Mac, and Mobile\""
- "\"[New] 2024 Approved Discovering the Best in Class 9 Microphone Recorders Reviewed\""
- "[New] Ranked Top iOS Solutions for Playing Classic PSP Games Today for 2024"
- New In 2024, Maximize Your Reach The Essential Guide to Facebook Video Aspect Ratios
- In 2024, How to Bypass Google FRP Lock from Infinix Hot 30i Devices
- In 2024, Top 10 Telegram Spy Tools On Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 for Parents | Dr.fone
- In 2024, Does find my friends work on Oppo A1x 5G | Dr.fone
- New Mastering Audio with Sound Forge An Assessment Review
- How To Remove iCloud On iPhone SE (2020) Smoothly
- Trouble with iPhone 15 Swipe-Up? Try These 11 Solutions
- 3 Methods to Mirror Vivo V29e to Roku | Dr.fone
- In 2024, Top 12 Prominent Xiaomi Civi 3 Disney 100th Anniversary Edition Fingerprint Not Working Solutions
- New 2024 Approved Unleash Your Creativity The Top 10 Vlog Editor Apps
- In 2024, Top 10 Best Spy Watches For your Oppo Reno 11 Pro 5G | Dr.fone
- In 2024, How to Cast Oppo Reno 8T to Computer for iPhone and Android? | Dr.fone
- In 2024, Still Using Pattern Locks with Samsung Galaxy A23 5G? Tips, Tricks and Helpful Advice
- Recover your photos after Oppo K11x has been deleted.
- A Step-by-Step Guide on Using ADB and Fastboot to Remove FRP Lock on your Meizu 21 Pro
- Forgot Apple iPhone 12 mini Backup Password? Heres What to Do
- Locked Out of Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max? 5 Ways to get into a Locked Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max | Dr.fone
- In 2024, How to Transfer Contacts from Oppo Find N3 to Other Android Devices Devices? | Dr.fone
- In 2024, How To Enable USB Debugging on a Locked Poco M6 Pro 5G Phone
- How to Repair Corrupt Excel 2021 Workbook?
- Updated Most-Downloaded Android Apps of the Month
- New The Visual Symphony Infusing Premiere Pro Projects with Animate Waveform Integration and Audio Representation for 2024
- In 2024, Is Your iPhone 8 Plus in Security Lockout? Proper Ways To Unlock | Dr.fone
- 2024 Approved Top 5 Best M4A Audio Editor Softwares to Edit Your M4A Files,these Five Free Audio Editors that Allow You to Edit Your M4A Files with Little to No Trouble
- New No Copyright Worries Best Sites for Public Domain Video Downloads for 2024
- The Ultimate Deal Final Cut Pro at a Fraction of the Cost for Students
- Updated Life After Windows Movie Maker Top Alternative Video Editors
- Bypassing Google Account With vnROM Bypass For Motorola Moto G04
- Unova Stone Pokémon Go Evolution List and How Catch Them For Honor 90 | Dr.fone
- Detailed Review of doctorSIM Unlock Service For iPhone 11 Pro Max | Dr.fone
- 3 Ways to Change Location on Facebook Marketplace for Apple iPhone SE (2020) | Dr.fone
- Apple ID is Greyed Out On iPhone 6 Plus How to Bypass?
- How to Unlock Vivo X100 Phone with Broken Screen
- New In 2024, Upload PS4 Screenshots to Social Media A Beginners Tutorial
- In 2024, How to Track Samsung Galaxy S23 Tactical Edition Location without Installing Software? | Dr.fone
- 4 Most-Known Ways to Find Someone on Tinder For Lava Storm 5G by Name | Dr.fone
- 9 Mind-Blowing Tricks to Hatch Eggs in Pokemon Go Without Walking On Honor Magic V2 | Dr.fone
- Gmail Not Working on Poco X5 Pro 7 Common Problems & Fixes | Dr.fone
- Updated Free Online Face Makers Top Picks for 2024
- New In 2024, Elite Audio File Converter Free Conversion of Professional MPA Soundtracks to Standardized MP3 Format
- In 2024, How I Transferred Messages from Lava Blaze 2 Pro to iPhone 12/XS (Max) in Seconds | Dr.fone
- 2024 Approved Top 10 AI Subtitle Translators for Content Creators That Anyone Can Use
- How to Bypass FRP on Motorola Razr 40?
- Updated Do You Want to Learn How to Film a TikTok with Multiple Clips? Worry No More because You Can Do This by Following the Methods Instructed in This Article
- How To Restore Missing Music Files from Motorola Razr 40
- In 2024, How To Unlock iPhone 11 Pro Without Passcode? 4 Easy Methods | Dr.fone
- How To Simulate GPS Movement With Location Spoofer On Samsung Galaxy S23+? | Dr.fone
- Fix the Error of Unfortunately the Process.com.android.phone Has Stopped on Realme 11 5G | Dr.fone
- Title: "[Updated] OBS versus ShadowPlay - Streaming Software Showdown"
- Author: Emma
- Created at : 2024-05-18 20:02:24
- Updated at : 2024-05-19 20:02:24
- Link: https://on-screen-recording.techidaily.com/updated-obs-versus-shadowplay-streaming-software-showdown/
- License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.