Here’s a painful reality: Choosing the incorrect HLS streaming encoder could cost your company customers and money. Both startups and large corporations must stream high-quality video.
However, how can one be confident that they are selecting the best tool when there are so many HLS streaming encoders available?
You’re not alone if you’re having trouble choosing between hardware and software encoders for your live streaming app development. Companies aiming to elevate their online content must address this issue.
In this blog, we’ll present the top HLS streaming encoders, discuss their advantages and disadvantages, and help you select the best option for your requirements.
So, let us start!
Understanding HLS Streaming
The industry standard for delivering live and on-demand video content over the internet is HLS (HTTP Live Streaming), a robust streaming technology developed by Apple.
As more companies utilize video as their primary form of interaction and communication, it is crucial to understand how HLS streaming works to ensure seamless, high-quality video playback.
What is HLS Streaming?
HLS is a streaming technology that divides video information into manageable portions that are sent to users over HTTP.
These portions enable adaptive bitrate streaming, which guarantees a seamless experience regardless of connection speed by automatically adjusting the movie quality to the viewer’s available bandwidth.
HLS is a game-changer for live video streaming, as it ensures uninterrupted and effective content delivery across all devices and internet speeds. Whether you’re streaming corporate seminars, live events, or video-on-demand platforms for content, HLS ensures that viewers have the best possible experience.
Why is the HLS Streaming Protocol Preferred?
- Stable and Scalable:
Whether you’re broadcasting a small meeting or a big live event, HLS adjusts to the viewer’s environment to maintain a smooth and excellent streaming experience.
- Broadly Supported:
HLS provides a simple method for companies to ensure that their content is accessible to a broad audience, as it is compatible with a range of devices, including desktops, smart TVs, and mobile phones.
- Cost-Effective:
HLS is an affordable and accessible choice for companies of all sizes because it doesn’t require expensive infrastructure or dedicated servers like other protocols like RTMP.
Top 5 Live Streaming Encoders for 2025
Selecting the appropriate HLS streaming encoder is crucial for ensuring seamless and high-quality broadcasts in the fast-paced world of different live streaming app development companies.
Knowing which hardware encoder vs. software encoder is suitable for your needs can help you grow your live streaming activity, regardless of your role as an entrepreneur, startup, or company.
Let’s examine the top 5 HLS live streaming encoders for 2025, separating the best hardware encoders for reliability and performance from the most versatile software encoders.
Best Software Encoders
1. OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software)
Overview:
Streamers frequently utilize OBS Studio, a free and open-source software, to create and broadcast videos. Due to its versatility and feature set, it is a preferred option for creators of all skill levels.
Features:
Supports various video sources and scene changes.
Its capabilities can be expanded with plugin support.
Allows for both recording and live streaming.
Pros:
- Open-source and free.
- Highly customizable through plugins.
- Support for multiple operating systems (Windows, macOS, and Linux).
Cons:
- It requires new users to navigate a slight learning curve.
- On lower-end computers, performance may be resource-intensive.
Benefits of OBS Studio for Your Streaming Requirements
OBS Studio is the ideal tool for producing high-quality streams if you’re new to HD video streaming or an enthusiast searching for a free way to get started. Because of its versatility and large user base, many professionals also utilize it.
2. Wirecast
Overview:
The broadcasting industry extensively utilizes Wirecast, a professional, paid software primarily used for conferences, significant events, and sports. It’s renowned for having premium features that can elevate your stream.
Features:
- Allows for the smooth live production of several camera configurations.
- Adding overlays, titles, and logos requires graphics integration.
- You can stream to multiple platforms simultaneously using cloud streaming capabilities.
Pros:
- Great assistance with complicated streaming configurations and live events.
- Broadcast-grade features of superior quality.
- Tools for professional production.
Cons:
- More expensive, making it unsuitable for startups or small enterprises.
- Increased learning curve for novices.
When Wirecast is Right for Your Business:
If you want to broadcast live events of a professional caliber with numerous cameras and excellent production, Wirecast is a great option. It is perfect for large-scale streaming operations and businesses.
3. XSplit
Overview:
XSplit is a high-end, easy-to-use software made for recording and streaming. It is popular among content producers for gaming streams, but it can also produce high-caliber webinars and broadcasts.
Features:
- Tools for real-time editing and scene management.
- Support for VST plugins to incorporate sophisticated audio effects.
- Integration for smooth broadcasting with cloud streaming services.
Pros:
- Excellent intuitiveness and performance balance.
- Perfect for gamers and online event hosts who are engagement-focused streamers.
- Output of excellent quality with little latency.
Cons:
- Paid program, while a feature-limited free version is also available.
- Fewer features than some other high-end software choices.
What Makes XSplit Unique for Streaming Businesses:
XSplit is an excellent choice for companies seeking the best streaming encoder that combines user-friendliness with sophisticated functionality. It is a preferred choice for live gaming streams and online events due to its reliability and efficiency.
Best Hardware Encoders
1. Teradek VidiU Pro
Overview:
Mobile broadcasts and remote events are ideal for the Teradek VidiU Pro, a high-performance hardware encoder made for live streaming while on the go. It provides exceptional streaming quality and versatility for business use.
Features:
- Allows for Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and 4G LTE access in addition to 1080p HD streaming.
- For field broadcasts, a straightforward and portable design makes operation easy.
- Support various platforms, such as YouTube, Facebook Live, and custom RTMP servers.
Pros:
- Small and lightweight.
- Possibilities for dependable communication in rural areas.
- Excellent streaming with little setup.
Cons:
- For casual streamers or small enterprises, the cost could be excessive.
- Restricted to use cases that are more event-based or mobile.
When Teradek VidiU Pro Is the Best Option for You:
The Teradek VidiU Pro is the ideal choice for businesses or events that require a hardware encoder for live streaming, particularly for remote or mobile broadcasting. It is made to be dependable in the field and is small and strong.
2. Blackmagic Design Web Presenter
Overview:
For smooth streaming to websites like YouTube, Facebook, and others, the Blackmagic Design Web Presenter is a small and dependable hardware encoder that converts any SDI or HDMI signal into a USB webcam.
Because it is easy to use and offers high-quality streaming, it is a popular choice for both businesses and content creators. It was designed for professional streaming environments.
Features:
- Converting SDI/HDMI to USB makes it simple to integrate with well-known streaming services and video conferencing applications.
- It’s simple to stream to multiple audiences simultaneously due to major platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and others.
- Low-latency, high-quality video streaming that guarantees uninterrupted, clear live event streaming.
- Even for people new to streaming, its plug-and-play capability and compact form factor make it easy to set up and operate.
Pros:
- Reasonably priced.
- Quick deployment for live broadcasts is made possible by ease of use.
- Versatile compatibility provides adaptability for a range of applications.
- Dependable Streaming
Cons:
- Fewer Advanced Features
- Fewer Input Choices
- No Integrated Recording
Benefits of Blackmagic Design Web Presenter for Expert Streaming:
For companies and content producers seeking a dependable hardware encoder without the high cost, the Blackmagic Design Web Presenter provides an excellent mix of functionality and usability. Because it can transform SDI/HDMI signals into a USB webcam, it’s a practical way to stream to websites like Facebook and YouTube.
3. Epiphan Pearl-2
Overview:
The Epiphan Pearl-2 is an industry-leading hardware encoder, ideal for live streaming at the corporate level. It is one of the most advanced hardware encoders for intricate broadcasts, as it supports 4K inputs and provides real-time streaming and recording capabilities.
Features:
- Real-time encoding and multiple 4K inputs.
- Assistance for live productions and multi-camera setups.
- Web-based interface for remote management and monitoring.
Pros:
- Professional performance combined with enterprise-level features.
- High scalability for large-scale broadcasts and events.
- Dependable and effective for round-the-clock streaming operations.
Cons:
- Expensive upfront.
- It is better suited for professional broadcasters or big businesses.
Why Epiphan Pearl-2 is Perfect for Enterprise Streaming:
The Epiphan Pearl-2 offers the highest level of performance and reliability for large enterprises with complex streaming requirements. It is ideal for sectors such as professional sports broadcasting, corporate communications, and education.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an HLS Streaming Encoder
Cost and Budget
The first factor to consider when selecting an encoder is cost. Both paid and free choices are available, and each has advantages and disadvantages.
Although they have limits, free software encoders like OBS Studio are great for startups or small organizations with little funds.
Higher-quality outputs and more sophisticated functionality are provided by paid encoders, such as Wirecast or vMix, although they have an ongoing fee.
Performance and Reliability
Encoder performance and reliability are crucial, particularly for companies that rely on live streaming for events, marketing, or new product launches.
A high-quality encoder ensures low latency and smooth video playback, even in various network scenarios.
Large broadcasts and high-quality video streaming can often be challenging for software encoders. This also tends to use more system resources. So, use the best video streaming app development companies in the USA.
Hardware encoders, on the other hand, are perfect for larger productions and offer reliable performance.
Ease of Use
The ease of use of an encoder is crucial when choosing one, particularly for companies with little technical background.
While more complex encoders would require technical expertise to operate, software encoders like OBS Studio are simple to set up and use.
User-friendly software encoders are ideal for novices or small organizations because they often feature an intuitive interface and preconfigured templates.
Hardware encoders, on the other hand, typically provide a plug-and-play setup, although setting them up may still require some time.
Integration and Compatibility
When selecting an encoder, compatibility with different streaming systems is crucial.
An encoder that works well with well-known websites, such as YouTube, Facebook Live, Twitch, and custom RTMP servers, is required.
Due to their broad interoperability, software encoders like OBS Studio or Streamlabs are easily integrated with various streaming systems.
Professional users find the process easier with hardware encoders like Teradek VidiU Pro or LiveU Solo, which are frequently designed with preconfigured integration.
Features and Flexibility
An encoder’s features and flexibility are crucial to achieving your company’s streaming objectives.
You may desire additional capabilities, such as analytics integration, real-time editing, and multi-camera support, depending on your specific streaming requirements.
The versatility and sophisticated capabilities of software encoders like XSplit and vMix, like cloud streaming, scene management, and graphics integration, are well-known.
Professional productions can benefit from the high performance and integrated functionality of hardware encoders, such as the Epiphan Pearl-2.
Final Thoughts
The choice of the best HLS streaming encoder ultimately reduces down to weighing the technical know-how, financial constraints, and commercial objectives. Understanding the primary distinctions between hardware and software encoders can help you make an informed decision, regardless of your company’s age or experience.
Our specialty at Scalevista is offering customized streaming solutions tailored to your specific business requirements.
Our team of professionals can help you select the ideal HLS encoder for your company, whether you’re just starting or looking to grow.
Contact us now to find the ideal HLS streaming encoder for your live streaming setup and ensure the best possible broadcast quality.