OBS StudioMaintainers review changes, contributors write them, translators localise them, and volunteers answer questions. Nobody is required to be an expert in everything.
The OBS Project is a crowd with a shared repository
The short answer
The OBS Project is the open-source community behind OBS Studio. Volunteers and maintainers write the code, translate the interface, update the docs and answer questions, and donations and sponsors cover the costs.
- License
- GPL, copyleft
- Source
- Public repository
- Funding
- Donations, sponsors
What an open license means for you
For a user, the practical meaning is freedom. You can install the program on as many computers as you like, use it for work or hobby, and never wonder if a clip will carry someone’s mark.
For businesses
Companies can use OBS Studio in their workflows without a per-seat fee. If they modify the program and distribute it, they must share those changes under the same license.
For tinkerers
Curious how a filter works? Read it. Want a variant for a niche need? Fork it. The door is intentionally unlocked.
The OBS Project contribution ladder
Start on the first rung. Climb only if you enjoy it.
1
Use it and notice things
Every unclear label or surprising behaviour you spot is useful feedback.
2
Report a precise problem
Version, system, steps to repeat, and the log file. Short but complete wins.
3
Help someone else
Answer a beginner’s question in a community space, kindly and without jargon.
4
Translate or document
Fix wording, finish a missing translation, or write down a procedure only you know.
5
Send a patch
Pick something small, follow the repository’s rules and be ready for review comments.
Four pillars of the OBS Project
Everything in the community rests on these.
The source is public. You can read how capture, encoding and filters work, and propose your own improvements.
OBS Studio uses the GPL, a copyleft license: you may use and share it, and derived versions must remain open too.
Costs are covered by voluntary donations and sponsors, not by ads or paid tiers.
Beyond the core program
| Extra | Made by | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Plugins | Independent developers | Capture tools, transitions and audio effects. Quality varies, so check version support. |
| Scripts | Users | Lua and Python automation for small repetitive tasks. |
| Remote control | Built in | A WebSocket interface so hardware panels and web apps can press buttons for you. |
OBS Project, quick answers
Who runs the OBS Project?
A group of maintainers and volunteer contributors from around the world, working in public.
Can I contribute to the OBS Project without programming?
Yes. Testing, translating, writing documentation and helping other users all count.
Why is the OBS Project free?
It is built by volunteers and supported by donations and sponsors rather than by selling licenses.
Are OBS plugins part of the OBS Project?
Most plugins are made by independent authors, so they are community add-ons rather than part of the core program.