The Pros and Cons of Local Bots versus Hosted Cloud Bots for Your Streaming Needs

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Introduction

Recently I had a conversation with a fellow streamer, where we discussed whether it was “right” to use cloud hosted chat bots and overlays like StreamElements, or locally running services like Firebot.
And though there is no “right” answer to this, I found myself in a position to outline some of the benefits and disadvantages of using either.
In the end, it’s really up to each of us what we prefer.

When it comes to streaming, it’s important to have a chatbot that can help you manage your channel’s chatroom. Chatbots can help you moderate chat, welcome new viewers, answer common questions, and even play music. There are two main types of chatbots: local bots and hosted cloud bots. Local bots, like Firebot, run on your computer, while hosted cloud bots, like StreamElements, operate on a remote server. Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each type of bot and help you decide which one is right for your streaming needs.

Local bots are chatbots that run on your computer, usually via a downloadable application. One of the main benefits of local bots is that they give you complete control over your chatbot’s functionality. You can customize your bot’s commands, responses, and features to your liking. Additionally, local bots can be integrated with other software on your computer, such as OBS, to create a seamless streaming experience.

However, there are also some drawbacks to using a local bot. For one, local bots can be resource-intensive, especially if you’re running multiple applications at once. This can cause to slow down or even crash, which can be disastrous during a live stream. Additionally, local bots are only as reliable as your computer’s hardware and internet connection. If your computer crashes or your internet goes down, your bot will stop working.

Another potential issue with local bots is that they require some technical expertise to set up and maintain. You’ll need to configure your bot’s settings, create custom commands, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. This can be daunting for new streamers or those who aren’t tech-savvy.

We have an article about a locally run chatbot, Firebot

Section 2: Hosted Cloud Bots

Hosted cloud bots, on the other hand, run on a remote server and can be accessed via a web interface. One of the main benefits of hosted cloud bots is that they are more reliable than local bots. Because they are hosted on a remote server, they are not affected by your computer’s hardware or internet connection. This means that your bot will continue to work even if your computer crashes or your internet goes down.

Another benefit of hosted cloud bots is that they are easy to set up and use. Most cloud bots have a user-friendly web interface that allows you to customize your bot’s settings, commands, and responses without any technical expertise. Additionally, many cloud bots offer a wide range of features, such as loyalty points, giveaways, and chat games, that can help you engage with your audience and grow your channel.

However, there are also some drawbacks to using a hosted cloud bot. For one, you don’t have as much control over your bot’s functionality as you do with a local bot. While you can customize your bot’s settings and commands, you are limited by the features that the bot provides. Additionally, some cloud bots charge a monthly fee for access to premium features, which can be a downside for streamers on a tight budget.

Section 3: Which Bot is Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use a local bot or a hosted cloud bot comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you value complete control over your bot’s functionality and don’t mind investing some time and effort into setup and maintenance, a local bot like Firebot may be right for you. However, if you want a reliable bot that is easy to set up and use, a hosted cloud bot like StreamElements may be a better option.

Whichever bot you choose, it’s important to remember that a chatbot is just one tool in your streaming arsenal. While it can help you manage your chatroom and engage with your audience, it’s important to focus on creating high-quality content and building relationships with your viewers. With the right combination of tools and strategies, you can build a thriving community around your channel and achieve success as a streamer.

Links

Cloud hosted bots

Locally hosted bots

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