StreamAlert vs Streamlabs
vs StreamElements
The complete comparison guide for 2025. Find out which donation alert system is right for your streaming setup. See why StreamAlert is the only choice for CashApp and Venmo support.
Quick Answer
Use StreamAlert If:
- • You accept CashApp or Venmo
- • You sell merchandise (Fourthwall, Shopify)
- • You want 15+ platform support
Use Streamlabs If:
- • You want an all-in-one platform
- • You need built-in chat bot
- • You only use PayPal/crypto
Use StreamElements If:
- • You want free overlays
- • You use standard payment methods
- • You prefer cloud-based setup
Pricing Comparison
| Feature | StreamAlert | Streamlabs | StreamElements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Tier | 30-day trial | Available | Available |
| Monthly Price | $9.99 | $19 (Ultra) | Free |
| Yearly Price | $59.99 ($4.99/mo) | $149 | Free |
| Platforms Supported | 15+ | 5-6 | 4-5 |
Feature Comparison
| Feature | StreamAlert | Streamlabs | StreamElements |
|---|---|---|---|
| CashApp AlertsImportant | |||
| Venmo AlertsImportant | |||
| PayPal Alerts | |||
| Patreon Integration | limited | limited | |
| Ko-fi Alerts | basic | basic | |
| Fourthwall IntegrationImportant | |||
| Shopify Alerts | |||
| Streamlabs Forwarding | — | — | |
| Custom GIFs | |||
| Alert Sounds | |||
| Donation Goals | |||
| Chat Bot | |||
| Overlays | alerts only | ||
| Merch Store |
Key Differences Explained
CashApp & Venmo Support
This is the biggest difference. Only StreamAlert supports CashApp and Venmo donations. Streamlabs and StreamElements have no integration with these popular peer-to-peer payment apps.
If your viewers prefer sending money via CashApp or Venmo (common among younger audiences), StreamAlert is your only option for showing those donations on stream.
All-in-One vs Specialized
Streamlabs is an all-in-one streaming platform with alerts, chat bot, overlays, and merch.StreamAlert specializes specifically in donation alerts and platform integrations.
Many streamers use both: Streamlabs for the main streaming setup and StreamAlert for CashApp/Venmo alerts and e-commerce integrations.
E-commerce Integrations
StreamAlert is the only tool that integrates with e-commerce platforms like Fourthwall, Shopify, Gumroad, Etsy, and WooCommerce. This lets you show merchandise sale alerts on stream.
Neither Streamlabs nor StreamElements support e-commerce alerts, making StreamAlert essential for creators who sell merchandise.
Setup Time Comparison
Fastest setup with streamlined configuration
More features = longer initial setup
Cloud-based setup, moderate complexity
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use StreamAlert with Streamlabs?
Yes! Many streamers use both. StreamAlert can forward alerts to Streamlabs so all your donations appear in one place. This gives you CashApp/Venmo support while keeping Streamlabs features.
Is StreamAlert cheaper than Streamlabs?
Yes, StreamAlert is $9.99/month compared to Streamlabs Ultra at $19/month. StreamAlert also supports more platforms, making it better value for creators who use CashApp, Venmo, or e-commerce.
Does Streamlabs support CashApp?
No, Streamlabs does not support CashApp. This is one of the main reasons streamers choose StreamAlert - it is the only alert tool that works with CashApp and Venmo.
Which is better for beginners?
StreamAlert has the simplest setup (5-10 minutes) and focuses just on alerts. Streamlabs has more features but is more complex. For beginners who want CashApp support, StreamAlert is easier.
Can I switch from Streamlabs to StreamAlert?
Yes, you can add StreamAlert alongside Streamlabs. Many streamers keep Streamlabs for overlays and chat bot while using StreamAlert for CashApp/Venmo alerts and e-commerce notifications.
Ready to upgrade your stream alerts?
Join thousands of streamers who use StreamAlert for CashApp, Venmo, and 15+ platform support. Start your 30-day free trial today.
No credit card required • 30-day free trial