PPluckly
Comparison

Streamlabs vs Simplecast

Side-by-side comparison of Streamlabs and Simplecast.

Tool
Streamlabs

All-in-one streaming software built for content creators

Simplecast

Clean podcast hosting built for serious creators

Starting price
27/mo
15/mo
Founded
2013
Pricing model
freemium
subscription
Free option
Free tier
Paid only

What they are

Streamlabs

Streamlabs is a streaming and recording platform that combines broadcast software, overlays, alerts, and donation tools in a single desktop app. It targets gaming and entertainment streamers who want a ready-to-use setup without piecing together separate tools. The free tier covers core streaming needs, while the paid plan unlocks multistream and premium overlays. Performance on lower-end machines can be noticeably worse than competing software.

Simplecast

Simplecast is a podcast hosting platform that handles distribution, analytics, and embeddable players for independent podcasters and media teams. It targets creators who want reliable RSS management and clear listener data without a cluttered interface. The analytics dashboard is genuinely useful for understanding audience retention, though the lack of a free tier means you pay from day one even when your show is just starting out.

Choose
Streamlabs

if you need analytics and monetization. It has a usable free tier to start with.

  • +Free tier is genuinely usable for solo streamers
  • +Built-in tip page and donation processing with no extra setup
  • +Large library of free and paid overlays and themes
Choose
Simplecast

if you need analytics and podcast hosting. Starts at 15/mo.

  • +Clean, minimal dashboard that is easy to navigate
  • +Detailed listener analytics including retention and consumption rates
  • +Unlimited uploads on paid plans

Which to choose

Streamlabs and Simplecast both cover analytics, so this is a real either-or for some teams. The right pick depends on which one's wider feature set and pricing fit how you work.

Read the full reviews for Streamlabs and Simplecast.

Pricing checked 3 Jun 2026.