If you’re a console gamer looking to break into live streaming, you’ve probably wondered, "How can I live stream my PlayStation gameplay?" The short answer is you have options.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to start streaming games natively from your PlayStation using its built-in Broadcast feature, explain how a capture card allows you to unlock more advanced customization with tools like Streamlabs Desktop, and help you figure out when it makes sense to scale your setup.
Jump Ahead:
- Streaming Directly from PlayStation Using Broadcast
- How to Stream Playstation Games via Live Streaming Software
Streaming Directly from PlayStation Using Broadcast
If you’re just starting out, PlayStation makes it easy to go live without extra equipment. Both the PS4 and PS5 include a built-in Broadcast feature that lets you stream directly to Twitch or YouTube.
How to Start a Broadcast (PS4):
Step 1: Press the Share button on your Playstation controller.
Step 2: Next, select Broadcast Gameplay.
Step 3: Choose Twitch or YouTube, whichever platform you wish to live stream on. Keep in mind that multistreaming when live streaming natively from Playstation isn't available.
Step 4: Login and link your account (if you haven’t already in your settings).
Step 5: Add a title for your live stream and configure settings from your Playstation camera or microphone. Be sure to update privacy and other settings available to you.
Step 6: If all looks well and you're ready to go live, hit the Start Broadcasting button.
P.S. 📝: For PS5, the steps are similar but initiated through the Create button.
What You Can Do:
- Stream gameplay with no extra hardware
- Display your face via the PlayStation Camera (or compatible USB camera on PS5)
- Include mic audio
- Show viewer comments on-screen
Limitations:
- Minimal overlays—lacks options for custom alerts, themes etc.
- Unable to accept tips or display recent supporters
- Use multistreaming (you can only stream to one platform at a time)
- Control advanced audio settings, transitions, or branding
PlayStation Broadcast is a great entry point for game streaming, but it’s limited. If you’re serious about branding, monetization, or growing on multiple platforms, you’ll eventually want to expand your setup using live streaming software (more on this in the next section).
Using Streamlabs Desktop for Custom Streaming
If you wish to stream using software like Streamlabs Desktop—whether to add overlays, alerts, multistreaming, or full layout control—you’ll need to bring your PlayStation feed into a computer using a capture card.
What’s a Capture Card, and How Does It Work?
A capture card lets you connect your PlayStation (and other devices) to your computer, capturing video and audio so Streamlabs Desktop can use it as a video source.
How to Stream PlayStation Using a Capture Card (Basic Setup):
Step 1: Connect your PlayStation to the capture card via HDMI.
Step 2: Connect the capture card to your computer via USB.
Step 3: Open Streamlabs Desktop and add the capture card as a source.
Step 4: Customize your stream and go live on Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, or all three at once.
Recommended Capture Cards:
- Elgato HD60 X
- AverMedia Live Gamer Mini
- Elgato 4K60 S+
Want to learn more? Check out our guide to the best capture cards under ~$150.
FAQs
Can I install Streamlabs Desktop on my PlayStation?
No. PlayStation doesn’t support third-party software like Streamlabs Desktop. You’ll need a capture card and PC.
Is Remote Play an option instead of a capture card?
Some streamers use PlayStation Remote Play to send gameplay to a computer, but quality and latency may differ. A capture card offers more stability and quality.
What’s the best time to switch from PlayStation-only to a capture card setup?
If you're looking to build your brand, monetize your stream, or improve quality, a capture card combined with Streamlabs Desktop setup is a worthy investment. The best time (if any) is when you're fully committed to growing your live stream.
Starting your streaming journey on a PlayStation is a solid choice—and many successful creators began there, too. But when you're ready to grow, Streamlabs is here to help you elevate your content with professional tools, branding features, and monetization options.
Your console may be the starting point, but your streaming potential goes far beyond it.