TheLoops vs Restream vs OBS
Looking for the best platform for 24/7 YouTube streaming? We compare TheLoops, Restream, and OBS to help you choose the right solution for continuous live streaming. This honest comparison covers features, pricing, ease of use, and reliability.
TheLoops
Built for 24/7 streaming
Restream
Multi-platform live streaming
OBS (Local)
DIY solution
Feature Comparison
| Feature | TheLoops | Restream | OBS (Local) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Streaming | |||
| Designed for 24/7 | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Auto-restart on failure | ✓ | ✗ | Manual |
| No computer needed | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Uptime guarantee | 99.8% | 99% | Varies |
| Ease of Use | |||
| Setup time | 5 min | 15 min | 1+ hours |
| Technical knowledge needed | None | Basic | Advanced |
| Video upload & optimization | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Web-based dashboard | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Features | |||
| Video looping | ✓ | ✗ | Plugin |
| Multi-platform streaming | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Unified chat | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Max platforms at once | 10 (Pro) | 8 | Unlimited |
| Pricing | |||
| Free tier | 24h trial | 2 channels | Free* |
| Entry price | $15/mo | $16/mo | $20-50/mo |
| Storage included | 50GB+ | None | Local |
| Hidden costs | None | Branding removal | Electricity |
Feature data based on publicly available information and our own testing. Last updated April 2026.
Pros & Cons
TheLoops
Pros
- Purpose-built for 24/7 streaming
- Easiest setup (5 minutes)
- Auto-recovery keeps streams running
- No technical knowledge needed
- All-inclusive pricing with storage
Cons
- No unified chat across platforms
- Newer service
Restream
Pros
- Stream to 30+ platforms
- Up to 8 platforms simultaneously
- Unified chat across platforms
- Established company since 2015
Cons
- Not designed for 24/7 streaming
- No auto-restart feature
- No video looping built-in
- Restream branding on free plan
OBS (Local)
Pros
- Free software
- Full customization
- Large community & plugins
- Works offline
Cons
- Requires computer running 24/7
- Electricity costs ($20-50/mo)
- Manual restart on failures
- Hardware wear and tear
Our Verdict
For 24/7 streaming specifically, TheLoops is the clear winner. It is the only platform purpose-built for continuous streaming with features like auto-restart, video looping, and no computer required - and it now fans one broadcast out to as many as 10 platforms at once. Restream excels at multi-platform live events (up to 8 platforms simultaneously) with unified chat, but it was not designed for unattended 24/7 operation. OBS is powerful but requires your computer to run constantly.
If you want to set it and forget it for 24/7 YouTube streaming, TheLoops offers the best experience at $15/month. The 24-hour free trial lets you test everything before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
For pure 24/7 streaming, TheLoops is the best choice because it's specifically designed for continuous broadcasting with auto-recovery, video looping, and no computer required. Restream is better for multi-platform live events, while OBS is best for technical users who want full control.
Restream is primarily designed for live events and multi-platform streaming to up to 30+ platforms, not 24/7 loops. It lacks auto-restart features and built-in video looping, which are essential for unattended continuous streaming. Their strength is in live event broadcasting across multiple platforms simultaneously.
Yes, but you'll need a dedicated computer running 24/7, which adds $20-50/month in electricity costs plus hardware wear. You'll also need to set up scripts for auto-restart on failures and handle maintenance yourself. It's powerful but requires significant technical knowledge and ongoing attention.
TheLoops starts at $15/month all-inclusive with 50GB storage. Restream starts at $16/month (billed annually) but isn't optimized for 24/7 and charges extra for features. Running OBS locally costs $20-50/month in electricity. TheLoops offers the best value for dedicated 24/7 streaming.