Yololiv Instream. Yolobox Pro. YoloBox Ultra. Which one is better? Should I upgrade?
Today, I’m going to compare three devices that are designed for live streaming: the YoloLiv Instream, The Yolobox Pro, and the new YoloBox Ultra.
For more than a year now, I have been using Pro to multi-stream to YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Instream to TikTok and Instagram. That’s 5 platforms at the same time.
But recently (mid-September 2023), YoloLiv released a new device by combining the Yolobox Pro and Yololiv Instream into one, the YoloBox Ultra, which claims to be the ultimate all-in-one multi-cam live streaming and switching system.
So, how do these three devices stack up against each other?
Let’s find out.
First, let’s talk about the design and display.
Design and Display
The Instream is a 7-inch device that has a 600 nits brightness touchscreen. The Instream is very portable and easy to use, and it feels like a premium device.
The Pro is an 8-inch device that has a 400 nits brightness touchscreen. It is also very portable and easy to use.
The YoloBox Ultra is an 8-inch device that has a 650 nits brightness touchscreen. The YoloBox Ultra is slightly bigger and heavier than the Instream, but it still fits in a backpack or a camera bag.
All three devices have similar ports on the sides, such as HDMI inputs and outputs, USB ports, SD card slots, SIM card slots, Ethernet ports, headphone jacks, microphone jacks, and power buttons.
However, the YoloBox Ultra has more ports than the Instream. It has four HDMI inputs instead of two, and it also has three cellular antennas for better network connectivity.
Next, let’s talk about the streaming capabilities.
Multi-Streaming
The Instream is mainly designed for vertical streaming, which is suitable for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. It can stream directly to these platforms using their official apps, without any third-party services or software. It can also stream to Facebook or Zoom using their apps, but only in portrait mode. I can multi-stream to 2 platforms at the same time.
The Yolobox Pro is designed for horizontal landscape streaming, which is suitable for platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, or any RTMP (S) websites. It can stream to three platforms simultaneously using its own streaming platform app.
The YoloBox Ultra can stream both horizontally and vertically, which makes it compatible with more platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or any RTMP (S) websites. It can stream to three platforms simultaneously using its own streaming platform app, which allows you to set up your stream settings and monitor your stream status. It can also stream to Instagram or TikTok.
Multi-camera
All three devices can accept multiple video sources for switching during live streaming.
The Yololiv Instream can accept two HDMI inputs and one USB input (such as a webcam).
The Yolobox Pro can accept three HDMI inputs and one USB input.
The YoloBox Ultra can accept four HDMI inputs and one USB-C input.
Enhanced Features
All three devices have similar software features for enhancing your live stream production. You can add graphic overlays such as logos, texts, lower thirds, countdowns, etc. You can also use picture-in-picture mode, or show up to three sources on the screen at the same time. You can also use chroma keying to remove green screen backgrounds from your sources. You can also adjust audio levels and switch audio sources using the side menus.
Network Bonding
One of the most impressive features of the YoloBox Ultra is the cellular bonding technology. This feature allows you to bond up to five network connections: three cellular connections (using SIM cards or USB modems), a Wi-Fi connection (using your own network or hotspot), and an Ethernet connection (using a cable). This way, you can ensure that your live stream has a reliable and high-quality video signal even in challenging environments where one network may not be enough.
The Instream has Network Bonding to combine up to 4 internet sources: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, SIM card 4G, and a network USB dongle.
ISO Recording
Another notable feature of the YoloBox Ultra is the ISO recording function. This function allows you to record each video source separately on an SD card while streaming live. This way, you can have backup footage for editing or uploading later.
The Instream does not have this function, but it still allows you to record your live stream on an SD card.
Other Functions
Both devices also have other functions that make them more than just streaming devices. You can use them as standalone monitors and recorders for your cameras or other devices using the HDMI output port.
You can also use them as webcams for Zoom, Skype, Teams, or other applications using the USB output port. You can even install third-party apps on them to expand their functionality.
Instream or Ultra
So, which device is better for live streaming? Well, it depends on your needs and preferences.
If you are mainly streaming on Instagram or TikTok in vertical format, then the Instream might be a better choice for you. It is more portable, more affordable, and more optimized for these platforms.
However, if you want to stream on multiple platforms in horizontal or vertical format, then the YoloBox Ultra might be a better choice for you. It is more versatile, more powerful, and more reliable for live streaming.
Alternatives
How do these devices compare to similar products on the market? Well, there are not many products that can offer the same features and functions as the Instream and the YoloBox Ultra.
Most of the products that are designed for live streaming are either software solutions that require a computer or a smartphone, or hardware solutions that require additional devices or services.
For example, some of the popular software solutions are OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, Ecamm Live, etc. Some of the popular hardware solutions are Elgato Cam Link, Blackmagic ATEM Mini, Teradek VidiU Go, etc.
These products have their own advantages and disadvantages, but they are not as convenient and easy to use as the Instream and the YoloBox Ultra.
All-in-one
The Instream and the YoloBox Ultra are all-in-one devices that can handle everything from capturing, switching, recording, and streaming with minimal setup and maximum flexibility. They are also very portable and battery-powered, which means you can stream from anywhere without worrying about power outlets or cables.
So, the Yololiv Instream and the YoloBox Ultra are two of the best devices for live streaming on the market today. They are both made by YoloLiv, a company that specializes in creating innovative and user-friendly products for content creators. They both have similar design and display, but they have different streaming capabilities, video source inputs, network connectivity, and other features. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose either one of them to create amazing live videos with ease and convenience.
If you have any questions or comments about these devices, please leave them below. If you want to learn more about them or buy them online, please visit their official website. I hope you found this post helpful. Please like and subscribe for more.
This is Adrian Lee from VideoLane.com.
See you in the next one!
