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As you might already know, smartphone live streaming is the easiest way to broadcast in 2022, and there are a few tools that can make it even more enjoyable. Apps are definitely on top of the list when it comes to simplifying your setup.
Using the right ones means solving problems before they arise, and making sure that viewers at home are getting the best possible experience.
Some of these streaming apps are paid, and others are free. All of them are worth testing, so you can then decide which ones fit your workflow.
Internet Testing Apps
Speedtest by Ookla
This is my favorite app for testing internet speed on location. It breaks down all the details you need, like Ping, Jitter, and Loss, while keeping the simplicity. It’s very easy to spot your upload speed and you can even change servers or test different carriers.
Why is it on this list? Because it’s my go-to tool to determine upload speed.
App Rating: 4.1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Download Speedtest by Ookla for iOS / Android
Opensignal
It provides great information besides upload speed, such as nearest cell tower, or even a speed comparison of different carriers based on your area. It is free, and definitely worth trying if you need to find ways to improve your signal.
Why is it on this list? Because it helps me find ways to improve my mobile data signal.
App Rating: 4.4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Download Opensignal for iOS / Android
Speed Test Master
The reason I love this app is that it provides a WiFi Strength indicator, on top of all the regular features. This is key when I walk away from the router and need to know if my WiFi signal will be alright when streaming behind a few walls.
Why is it on this list? Because of the WiFi Strength indicator.
App Rating: 4.6 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Download Speed Test Master for iOS / Android
Live Streaming Apps for Events
EventLive — iOS & Android
It is the best app to live stream events, but I might be biased. I used it every week for clients’ work, and they love it (and so do I). The best feature for me, is the ability to go live with a simple record button and have a clean viewing page that requires no extra work. The delivery page is a big plus for clients too. It automatically saves a copy of the live stream to my iPhone every time and warns me before the live stream if my storage space is low.
The best part about EventLive's app, is that it includes an Upload Speed meter built in, so I don't need to run a speed test when I'm in a rush.
Why is it on this list? Because I use it to live stream events all the time.
App Rating: 4.9 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Download EventLive for iOS / Android
Switcherstudio — iOS only
This amazing little app allows you to create a multi-camera live stream using up to 9 iPhones or iPads. You can connect a couple of iPhones, use your own RTMP destination, and go live with a setup that looks like it’s worth 5 times as much.
Why is it on this list? Because it is a perfect pair with EventLive. You can connect two iPhones and create an amazing streaming experience for virtual guests.
App Rating: 4.1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Download Switcherstudio for iOS
CameraFi — Android only
Have you ever tried to connect your camera to your smartphone and live stream straight from it? If you think about it, it’s the smartest thing to do. You’d get the best of both worlds. In reality, it isn’t easy to achieve, but that’s exactly what this app does.
It feels like a “beta” version for me, so I don’t really use it. I tried it and loved the results, but the experience should be a little more polished in my opinion, especially when adjusting app settings.
Why is it on this list? Because if you’re an Android user and have a good camera, you should definitely try it.
App Rating: 4.1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Download CameraFi for Android
Larix Broadcaster — iOS & Android
You can use Larix Broadcaster to live stream directly from your phone using RTMP keys from your favorite live streaming platform. It works well with EventLive, and the main difference is that Larix allows for advanced configuration for power users. You should consider using it if you need advanced control over everything else. It is a technical app, so if you’re not a technical person you might find it overwhelming.
Some of the settings you can tweak include Bitrate, Latency, Resolution, FPS, Anti-Flicker, Overlays, Picture in Picture, Image Stabilization and Autofocus, amongst a few others.
Why is it on this list? Because it's a good choice for advanced users who want to configure every little detail of the live stream.
App Rating: 4.4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Download Larix Broadcaster for iOS / Android
Tools & Extras
Speedify
This app allows you to use multiple internet connections to create a stronger one. You either love or hate this app, as it brings mixed results. I had both good and bad experiences using it, but I definitely think it’s worth trying. Personally, I tend to work on locations with really good LTE so I don’t really need it. If you live in rural areas or work at venues with poor signal, Speedify might work for you.
Why is it on this list? Because it’s a unique app with a very specific use. You should try it.
App Rating: 4.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Download CameraFi for iOS / Android
Conclusion or TL:DR
You only need one great app to test your upload speed before every live stream, but they all have different tools that make them unique.
To live stream events on location, I'd recommend the EventLive app and an iPhone, Galaxy S20 or S21, or a Pixel 5 or 6. Depending on your location, you might need to use Speedify to improve your connection a little bit, but I usually don't find it necessary.
Apps like Switcherstudio or CameraFi can give you a boost in quality, but only when used with a strong and stable internet connection.
