Loom vs OBS Studio
Updated 2026-09-03
Verdict
Loom (free 25-video Starter, Business $18/user/month) records screen and camera into instantly shareable links with no setup; OBS Studio (free, open source) is a full streaming and recording suite with scenes, sources and scripting. Loom for zero-setup async recordings, OBS for professional live streaming and advanced captures.
| Pricing | Loom | OBS Studio |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | 18 USD | 0 USD |
| Free tier | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux |
Loom — Pros
- Instant shareable links — viewers need no account
- Free Starter tier for light async use (25 videos, 5-min clips)
- Loom AI auto-generates titles, summaries and chapters
OBS Studio — Pros
- Free, open source, no watermarks or recording limits
- Industry standard for Twitch/YouTube streaming with scene compositing
- Extensible via native plugins and Lua/Python scripts
Loom — Cons
- Starter caps 25 videos/person and 5 minutes per recording
- 4K and unlimited length require paid Business plan ($18/user/month)
- AI features only on the higher Business + AI plan ($24)
OBS Studio — Cons
- No built-in editing — recordings need a separate editor
- Setup more complex than consumer recorders
- No official mobile version
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FAQ
Is Loom cheaper than OBS Studio?
Loom starts at 18 USD (checked 2026-09-03); OBS Studio starts at 0 USD (checked 2026-09-03). Check the current pricing page for the latest tiers.
Do Loom and OBS Studio have a free plan?
Both Loom and OBS Studio offer — see the comparison table above.
What platforms does Loom vs OBS Studio support?
Loom is available on Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android. OBS Studio is available on Windows, macOS, Linux.
Are Loom and OBS Studio in the same category?
Yes. Both Loom and OBS Studio are classified as video tools.