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Install the Streamlabs Plugin for OBS on a compatible Windows PC, sign in through its setup window, then add widgets, overlays, labels, or docks from OBS’s Streamlabs menu. It adds selected Streamlabs tools to OBS Studio; it is not Streamlabs Desktop. Streamlabs’ quick start, published May 20, 2026, lists Windows and OBS Studio 28.0.0 or later as requirements. Check Streamlabs’ current plugin instructions before installing, since compatibility and features can change.
Before you install the plugin
- Operating system: The plugin is Windows-only. Streamlabs’ product page specifies Windows 10/11 or better; its May 20, 2026 quick start says Windows. It is not the Mac version of OBS.
- OBS Studio: Use version 28.0.0 or later, as specified in Streamlabs’ May 20, 2026 quick start. Check your installed version in OBS before proceeding.
- Installer: Download the plugin installer from Streamlabs’ official site. The installer is designed to find the OBS folder and install the plugin files.
- Account: Be ready to sign in or connect the streaming platform requested by the onboarding flow. Streamlabs’ detailed guide describes sign-in with a Streamlabs ID or a preferred streaming platform; follow the current prompts.
You do not need Streamlabs Desktop to use the plugin. It is intended for people who want to keep an existing OBS Studio workflow while adding selected Streamlabs tools.
Install and set up the plugin
- Download and run the installer from Streamlabs’ plugin page. Follow the setup prompts; the installer should locate your OBS installation.
- Open OBS Studio. In the plugin onboarding window, choose Log In & Get Started, then complete the sign-in or platform connection steps shown.
- If OBS asks to restart—such as after adding an overlay—save your work and restart it. Some changes do not appear until OBS is reopened.
- Confirm that the top menu contains Streamlabs. If it does not, close OBS completely and reopen it once before troubleshooting the installation.
Add and test widgets and alerts
- In OBS, open Streamlabs > Widgets.
- Choose the widget you want and select + Add. The plugin adds it to the canvas as a browser source.
- In the OBS Sources list, move the widget source above gameplay or other full-screen sources. A source lower in the stack can be hidden behind them.
- Return to the Widgets area, open Test Events, hover over the relevant platform, and select the test event you want to preview.
- To change a widget’s settings, use its gear/settings control. Streamlabs opens a browser window for editing; widget details are not edited directly in the plugin interface.
Test the alert in every scene where it will be used. A source added to one scene may not be present in another, and source ordering is scene-specific.
Install an overlay
- Open Streamlabs in OBS and select Overlay.
- Find the overlay you want and choose Select & Install.
- If OBS prompts for a restart, follow the prompt, then inspect the overlay in each relevant scene and adjust its source order as needed.
If you would rather not install the plugin, Streamlabs also documents importing a scene collection as an overlay route. See its overlay instructions for that option. Browser sources are another way to use selected widgets without the plugin.
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FIFINE AmpliGame AM8 USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone for Gaming Streaming
- [Natural Audio Clarity] Operated with frequency response of 50Hz-16KHz, the podcasting XLR mic delivers balanced audio range, likely to resonate with your audience. Directional cardioid dynamic microphone corded will not exaggerate your voice, while rejects unwanted off-axis noise for vocal originality and intelligibility during your PS5 gaming streaming video recording. (Tips: Keep the top of end-addressing XLR dynamic microphone AM8 facing audio source, and suggested recording range is 2 to 6 in.)
- [XLR Connection Upgrade-Ability] To use XLR connection, connect the podcast microphone to an audio interface (or mixer) using a separate XLR cable (NOT Included) . Well-connected and smooth operation improves audio flexibility to make you explore various types of music recording singing. The streaming mic isolates the pristine and accurate sound from ambient noise with greater no interference and fidelity. (RGB and function key on mic are INACTIVE when using XLR connection.)
- [USB Connection with Handy Mute] Skip the hassle of setting something up and plug the cable to play the dynamic USB microphone directly, which suits for beginner creators or daily podcast. You can quickly control the gamer mic with tap-to-mute that is independent of computer/Macbook programs to keep privacy when live streaming. LED mute reminder helps you get rid of forgetting to cancel the mute. (RGB and function key are only available for USB connection, but NOT for XLR connection)
- [Soothing Controllable RGB] RGB ring on the desktop gaming microphone for PC, with 3 modes and more than 10 light colors collection, matches your PC gears accessories for gaming synergy even in dim room. You can control the RGB key button of the dynamic microphone USB directly for game color scheme gaming or live streaming. Configured memory function, the streaming microphone RGB no need to repeated selections after turnning off and brings itself alive when power on. (Only available for USB connection)
- [More Function Keys] Computer microphone with headphones jack upgrades your rhythm game experience and gets feedback whether the real-time voice your audience hear as expected. Get the desired level via monitoring volume control when gaming recording. Smooth mic gain knob on the PC microphone gaming has some resistance to the point, easily for audio attenuation or boost presence to less post-production audio. (Only available for USB connection)
Add Stream Labels
- In OBS, go to Streamlabs > Stream Labels > Add a Stream Label.
- Select the label you want. To use it in more than one scene, use the Add to Scene dropdown.
- To edit a label, open its three-dot menu and choose Edit. Add or change text and variables, then save.
- To remove a label from a scene, delete that source from the scene. Removing it from the Stream Labels list is a separate action in the label’s three-dot menu.
Show the Activity Feed and Chat docks
- In OBS, open Docks and enable Streamlabs Activity Feed and/or Streamlabs Chat.
- Drag the dock panels to the position that suits your OBS workspace.
- If the Streamlabs entries are missing, open Streamlabs > Settings > Danger Zone > Restore Plugin Docks.
What the plugin includes—and what it does not
Streamlabs describes the plugin as an add-on that brings selected tools such as overlays, widgets, Stream Labels, and related features into OBS Studio. Its detailed guide also lists tools including Recent Events, Cloudbot, an overlay library, and tipping. The available tools can depend on current account, plan, and product conditions.
The plugin is free to download and use, but some capabilities are plan-dependent. Streamlabs says server-side multistreaming and premium overlays require Streamlabs Ultra. Its guide also says the plugin does not provide Shared Storage, Dual Output for vertical/horizontal multistreaming, or Collab Cam; Streamlabs points people seeking those features toward Streamlabs Desktop. Check the current product pages for the latest feature and plan terms.
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Logitech Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer Condenser Mic with Blue VO!CE effects, 4 Pickup Patterns, Plug and Play - Blackout
- Custom three-capsule array: This professional USB mic produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube videos, Twitch game streaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, music recording and more
- Blue VO!CE software: Elevate your streamings and recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples
- Four pickup patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics, for vocals, instruments and podcasts
- Onboard audio controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the audio recording and streaming process
- Positionable design: Pivot the mic in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality thanks to the adjustable desktop stand and track your voice in real time with no-latency monitoring
For TikTok desktop streaming, Streamlabs notes that access may require approval, the output is horizontal rather than vertical, and TikTok chat and LIVE Studio remain in a separate computer window. Confirm your account’s access and format needs before building a scene around TikTok.
Plugin or Streamlabs Desktop?
| Choice | Best fit | Important distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Streamlabs Plugin for OBS | You already use OBS Studio and want selected Streamlabs tools inside that workflow. | Windows-only; Streamlabs lists OBS Studio 28.0.0 or later. The plugin excludes Shared Storage, Dual Output, and Collab Cam. |
| Streamlabs Desktop | You prefer an all-in-one streaming application or need capabilities Streamlabs says are not in the plugin. | Streamlabs describes Desktop as supporting Mac and PC. Feature availability and plan requirements depend on the current product terms. |
| Browser sources or scene collection import | You want to use selected widgets or overlays without installing the plugin. | Streamlabs documents browser sources for widgets and scene collection import for overlays; these are alternatives, not the full plugin. |
Streamlabs says you do not have to use the plugin to use Streamlabs features in OBS: widgets can be added through browser sources, and multistreaming can be configured through the dashboard and an OBS RTMP destination. Confirm the current instructions for the specific tool you need.
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Rank #3
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FIFINE K669B USB Microphone, Condenser Recording Mic for Vocals, Meeting
- [Convenient Setup] Plug and play recording USB microphone for PC, with 5.9-Foot USB cable included for computer PC laptop, is connected directly to USB-A port for recording music, computer singing or podcast. The office condenser microphone for computer is easy to use and install. (NOT compatible with Xbox and Phones)
- [Durable Metal Design] Solid sturdy metal construction design, the computer microphone for Zoom meetings with stable tripod stand is convenient when you are doing voice overs or livestreams on YouTube. Durable material extends the service life of the voice-over microphone.
- [Mic Volume Knob] Gaming condenser USB mic compatible for PS4 with additional volume knob itself has a louder or quieter adjustment and is more sensitive. Your voice would be heard well enough through the zoom microphone USB when gaming, skyping or voice recording. Also, you can adjust your volume to zero and protect your privacy.
- [Widely Use] USB-powered design, the condenser microphone for recording no need the 48v Phantom power supply, works well with Cortana, Discord, voice chat and voice recognition. The podcast microphone for Mac, with USB-B to USB-A/C cable, is compatible with desktop, laptop or PS4/PS5, which meets most of your daily recording needs.
- [Clear Output Voice] Cardioid condenser microphone for PC captures your voice properly, producing clear smooth and crisp sound. Great computer recording mic for gamers/streamers/youtubers focus on the main source and reduces background noise. The streaming microphone does the job well for broadcast ,OBS and teamspeak.
Update or troubleshoot the plugin
The Streamlabs menu or plugin docks are missing
- Restart OBS, then check the top menu again.
- For missing Chat or Activity Feed docks, use Streamlabs > Settings > Danger Zone > Restore Plugin Docks.
- If the Streamlabs menu itself remains absent, verify that you installed the plugin into the OBS installation you actually launch and that your OBS version meets the documented requirement. Re-run the official installer if necessary.
An alert does not appear over gameplay
- Confirm the widget was added through Streamlabs > Widgets > + Add.
- Move its source above gameplay and other covering sources in that scene’s Sources list.
- Use Test Events to determine whether the widget can display an event before going live.
- Check the widget settings in the browser window opened by its gear control, and verify that the intended platform/account is connected.
An overlay change is not visible
Follow any restart prompt from OBS, then check that the overlay source is enabled and visible in the current scene. If you use multiple scenes, verify the overlay has been added to each one where you expect it.
A label disappeared or will not edit
Check the scene’s Sources list: removing a label source from a scene is separate from deleting it from the Stream Labels list. Use the label’s three-dot menu to edit it or remove it from the list.
Rank #4
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FIFINE AmpliGame A6V USB Gaming Microphone, Condenser RGB Mic for Streaming
- [Award Honored, Full Audio] FIFINE AmpliGame A6V, a gaming mic, has earned the globally recognized iF Design Award. The PC microphone with 192kHz sampling rate delivers naturally detailed audio, making your team sound like they're right beside you. Cardioid polar pattern and 70dB SNR offer dual support for pure voice, sensitive to the front vocal and reducing background noise interference. The streaming mic helps you win more easily.
- [Quick Mute Button, Handy Gain Knob] Immediately silence the USB microphone with a tap, preventing emotional outbursts to maintain a positive team atmosphere. RGB off when muted to indicate status and prevent streaming accidents. Mic volume control conveniently located on the condenser microphone is intuitive to use. You can speak at a comfortable level without shouting or whispering during game.
- [Gradient RGB] Bicolored RGB cycles through 7 gradient colors automatically. Vivid lighting on the FIFINE microphone for PC enhances your glowing rig for a carnival atmosphere, immersing you in the intense game arena. The computer microphone for desktop with fixed light modes achieves a personalized experience without visual clutter, randomly matching game characters for surprise color combos.
- [Plug and Play] The PS5 microphone is easy to install and compatible with PS4, desktop, laptop and mainstream operating systems like Windows/Mac OS, without extra software. Quickly start game chat on Discord, Team and Zoom, or stream on OBS, Streamlabs and Twitch platforms. The gaming microphone PC coming with 6.6ft-long detachable USB cable ensures no interruptions or connectivity issues, even if your computer host is under the desk.
- [Useful Accessories] The podcast microphone features durable construction. Anti-vibration shock mount with four rubber bands absorbs tremor from keyboard taps and mouse clicks. The detachable pop filter reduces plosives caused by excited speech during gaming. The stable tripod stand with rubber feet allows for optimal recording positioning via an adjustable thumbscrew, whether you're leaning back or in.
How updates work
Streamlabs says the plugin checks for updates when OBS launches and prompts when an update is available. Its update instructions also describe a manual update route. Follow the latest official update guide rather than relying on a version number that may have changed.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Keep a YouTube channel live without leaving OBS on
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ZealSound Podcast Microphone for PC, Noise Cancellation USB Mic with Gain, Volume Adjustment & Mute Button, Monitoring & Echo, for YouTube, TikTok, Podcasting, Streaming, iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac
- Studio-Quality Sound for Clear Podcast Recording – The K66 USB podcast microphone delivers studio-quality, broadcast-level audio using a high-performance condenser capsule and cardioid pickup pattern that focuses on your voice while reducing unwanted background noise. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it features a wide 40Hz–18kHz frequency response and a 46kHz sampling rate to reproduce rich lows, smooth mids, and clear highs for natural, detailed vocals. With –45dB ±3dB sensitivity, it captures balanced sound without distortion during expressive speaking. Ideal for podcasting, voice-over, online classes, meetings, and professional content creation.
- Intelligent Noise Reduction Mode for Cleaner Podcast Audio – This podcast microphone features an advanced Noise Reduction Mode designed for clearer, more focused voice recording in real-world environments. Press and hold the mute button to enable noise reduction (blue indicator). In this mode, the microphone helps reduce keyboard clicks, PC fan noise, air conditioner hum, and background chatter. Default Mode maintains a warm, natural vocal tone for quiet spaces. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it allows creators to identify the active mode instantly and adapt as needed, ensuring clear audio for podcasting, gaming, streaming, online classes, meetings, and recording.
- True Plug-and-Play USB Microphone with Wide Device Compatibility – Engineered for effortless plug-and-play use, the K66 USB microphone requires no drivers, apps, or software installation. Simply connect and start recording on Windows PC, Mac, laptops, PS4, PS5, and tablets. Included USB-C and Lightning adapters ensure seamless compatibility with iPhone, iPad, and modern USB-C phones and devices, making it easy to switch between desktop and mobile recording. Ideal for creators working across multiple platforms, this microphone delivers consistent, high-quality audio for YouTube, TikTok, Twitch, Zoom, Discord, OBS Studio, Streamlabs, podcasting, livestreaming, and professional voice recording.
- Real-Time Zero-Latency Monitoring with Adjustable Volume Control – This podcast microphone features real-time, zero-latency monitoring through a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing you to hear exactly what’s being recorded without delay. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it includes a dedicated monitoring volume control that lets you adjust headphone listening levels independently for accurate and comfortable audio monitoring. Real-time feedback helps identify distortion, background noise, or uneven volume before it affects your final recording, making this podcast microphone ideal for podcasting, streaming, online teaching, voice-over work, and professional content creation.
- Precision Audio Adjustment Knobs for Full Sound Control – This podcast microphone gives creators hands-on control with dedicated knobs for microphone volume, monitoring volume, and echo adjustment. Fine-tune mic gain to maintain clear, balanced vocal output, adjust headphone monitoring levels independently for comfortable listening, and add or reduce echo to enhance depth and presence. Designed as a reliable PC microphone, these intuitive physical controls allow fast, on-the-fly adjustments without software, helping identify distortion, background noise, or level inconsistencies instantly. Ideal for podcasting, streaming, ASMR, voice-overs, singing, and professional multi-platform recording.
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