vMix Software Comparison: Choosing the Right Edition

vMix software is a feature-rich live video production and streaming platform designed for Windows PCs. It allows creators to mix cameras, IP sources, video files, images, NDI feeds, SRT streams and remote guests into polished productions. Version 28 introduced additions such as a web-based telestrator, five simultaneous live streams and application audio capture. Unlike many streaming tools, vMix licenses are lifetime purchases, and they include a year of free updates. After that, you may pay a small upgrade fee to stay current, or simply keep using your version. The only subscription option is vMix Max, which mirrors the Pro edition’s features but bundles ongoing updates into a monthly fee.

Understanding the Editions

vMix offers five versions—Basic HD, HD, 4K, Pro edition and Max—each suited to different workflows. Basic HD is the most affordable and is aimed at simple livestreams or corporate presentations. It’s limited to four total inputs (three can be cameras or NDI sources) and outputs at full HD (1080p). You can record and stream simultaneously, but you’re restricted to a single caller and just one overlay channel.

The HD edition removes the strict input limitation, raising the cap to 1,000 inputs and allowing an unlimited number of cameras, yet still tops out at 1080p. It keeps the one-caller cap and offers a single-camera instant replay, making it sufficient for mid-size productions or church services that don’t need 4K output.

Upgrading to the 4K edition adds support for 4K (4096 × 2160) resolution and expands the number of remote guests to four. It’s the first tier to unlock advanced features such as MultiCorder, which records separate files for each camera, and a Mix input that creates up to 15 mini-mixers for complex scenes. The 4K edition also provides four SRT outputs, a vertical 1920p preset for mobile-first streams, and an interactive telestrator that lets hosts draw directly over live video. This makes it ideal for sports productions, eSports and mobile social media broadcasting.

The Pro edition is the flagship product. It supports eight remote guests and eight-camera instant replay, making it a powerhouse for professional sports and TV productions. Pro also includes two fullscreen outputs and four external outputs, allowing multiple clean feeds for projectors, monitors or NDI streams. You gain full PTZ control for robotic cameras, advanced scripting and automation through VB.NET, and the GT Designer Advanced for importing Photoshop files and building custom animated graphics.

vMix Max, offered as a monthly subscription, matches the Pro edition feature-for-feature. It’s aimed at those who prefer lower upfront costs and continuous updates without purchasing upgrade packs.

Key Features Across Editions

Inputs and Resolution

The number of inputs you need is a key factor. Basic HD is limited to four sources, while all other editions allow up to 1,000. Basic HD and HD are capped at 1080p, whereas 4K, Pro and Max deliver full 4K resolution. If you plan to produce ultra-high-definition content, the 4K tier or higher is mandatory.

vMix Call and Remote Guests

Remote guests join via a web browser, but guest capacity varies. Basic HD and HD accommodate one caller, 4K supports four, and Pro/Max allow eight. For multi-guest talk shows, the top editions are essential. vMix Call automatically provides a mix-minus audio feed, so guests hear program audio without feedback.

Instant Replay and MultiCorder

Instant replay is crucial for sports and event coverage. HD and 4K editions handle single-camera replay, while Pro/Max record up to eight cameras and offer features such as slow motion, reverse playback and highlight reels. MultiCorder, available starting with 4K, captures ISO recordings from multiple cameras to separate files, enabling flexible post-production.

Outputs and Streaming

Every edition can record two channels and stream up to five destinations. However, only 4K and higher support two fullscreen outputs and four external outputs. These extra feeds allow you to send different mixes to stage displays, clean feeds for broadcast or NDI outputs for other applications. SRT outputs are limited to one in Basic and HD but expand to four in 4K, Pro and Max. The Mix input feature enables additional sub-mixers for layering elements without sacrificing main outputs.

Advanced Production Tools

Higher-tier licences unlock specialized tools. The GT Title Designer standard templates are included in all editions, but 4K and Pro upgrades add custom animation and Photoshop file import. Vertical HD presets and a telestrator are reserved for 4K and above, catering to mobile-first streaming and sports analysis. Pro and Max support VB.NET scripting for automation and deeper integration with other systems, plus full PTZ camera control via compatible hardware.

Selecting Your Edition

Choosing the right version depends on your budget and production complexity. If you’re running a simple webinar or church service with a couple of cameras, Basic HD or HD may be sufficient. For content creators or small organizations that require 4K, remote guests, isolated recording and vertical video support, the 4K edition strikes a balance. Broadcasters covering sports or talk shows with multiple guests and cameras will need Pro or Max to access eight-camera replay, advanced outputs and automation.

Conclusion

vMix software scales from entry-level streaming to professional broadcast environments. Every purchase, except the Max subscription, is a lifetime licence that includes one year of updates, giving you control over ongoing costs. By understanding the distinctions in input limits, resolution, remote call capacity, replay functionality and advanced tools, you can invest in the edition that matches your current needs while leaving room for growth. Whether you’re streaming a sermon, producing an esports tournament or managing a multi-camera talk show, there’s a vMix edition tailored to your workflow.

vMix Software Comparison Table