How To Choose the Best Device for Livestreaming
Choosing the right device for livestreaming with EventLive is important for a smooth and high-quality experience. Here’s what you need to know to pick the best option for your event.
1. Recommended Devices for Most Users
We usually recommend using a mobile device for streaming, either a phone or tablet with an internet connection. This is the easiest and most user-friendly way to go live with EventLive.
- Use a modern smartphone or tablet (iPhone, iPad, or Android device)
- Make sure your device is fully charged or plugged in during the event
- Check that your device has enough storage space for the recording
Streaming from a computer? On a MacBook, iMac or Mac mini, use EventLive for Mac. It's as simple as the phone app and works with the built-in camera, USB and HDMI cameras or your iPhone. On a Windows laptop or desktop, use EventLive for Windows, which works with the built-in camera and USB cameras. OBS Studio also works on both (see below).
2. Using Professional Cameras and Other Equipment
You can also use other devices like GoPro, DSLR, mirrorless cameras, web cameras, or professional encoders. This is a bit more complicated but possible with EventLive.
- GoPro cameras and professional encoders connect to EventLive with RTMP streaming
- A DSLR or mirrorless camera usually needs an HDMI capture card. Connect it to a Mac running EventLive for Mac, to a Windows PC running EventLive for Windows (with a capture card that works as a USB webcam), or use streaming software such as OBS Studio
- For detailed instructions, see our guides:
- How to Go Live from Your Mac
- How to Go Live from Your PC
- How to live stream with DSLR, mirrorless or other professional cameras
- How to Live Stream with EventLive and OBS Studio
- How to go live using RTMP
3. Streaming Quality and Device Limitations
- The maximum streaming quality with EventLive is 1080p (Full HD)
- By default, the app streams in 720p
- On iPhone and iPad, you can turn on Stream in 1080p in Settings › Apps › EventLive if your upload speed allows it, and Save in 4K to keep a 4K backup on the device
- On Android devices, streaming is currently limited to 720p
- If you use professional cameras and an encoder, you can stream in 1080p via RTMP
- EventLive for Mac and EventLive for Windows stream in 1080p and lower the quality automatically if your upload speed drops
4. Internet Connection Requirements
- A strong and stable internet connection is important for livestreaming
- For 1080p streaming, you need a good upload speed (at least 7-10 Mbps or higher)
- For 720p streaming, upload speed of 3-5 Mbps is usually enough
- If your internet connection is weak or unstable, the video will still be recorded locally on your phone, or on your computer with EventLive for Mac or EventLive for Windows
5. Additional Tips
- Test your setup before the event day to avoid surprises
- Use a tripod or stable surface for your device to keep the video steady
- If you have a videographer, share our RTMP setup guide with them