# Streamlink

> Python CLI and library that pipes video streams from services like Twitch and YouTube into a video player such as VLC, or writes them to disk.

Stars: 11.9k · Language: Python · License: BSD-2-Clause · Categories: Network

- Repository: https://github.com/streamlink/streamlink
- Website: https://streamlink.github.io/
- Page: https://www.trmn.sh/tools/streamlink

## Install

- Homebrew: `brew install streamlink`

## Overview

Streamlink is a command-line utility and Python library that extracts video streams from streaming services and pipes them into a video player. It lets you watch streamed content in a local player instead of in a resource-heavy website. It was forked in 2016 from the abandoned Livestreamer project.

Basic usage is `streamlink "STREAMURL" best`, where the second argument selects the stream quality. By default, playback goes to VLC, but other players and output methods are available, including writing the stream to the filesystem and reading stream metadata. The CLI documentation covers the full set of options.

Support for individual services is implemented through a plugin system, so new services can be added as plugins. Popular services such as Twitch and YouTube are supported, and the plugins page lists everything included. Streamlink is aimed at users who want to play or record live streams outside the browser. Python developers can also embed it through the documented API guide and API reference. Installation instructions are provided for Windows, macOS, Linux and BSD, and PyPI or source.

### Installation

```bash
# via Homebrew
brew install streamlink
```

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Canonical: https://www.trmn.sh/tools/streamlink