“I want to display comments on my OBS streaming screen, but I don’t know how to set it up…” Many streamers are likely to have such concerns.

By introducing CastCraft, you can easily overlay comments onto your OBS screen with just a few steps. There are two methods for setup: using an overlay URL or using CastCraft Screen, both of which can be done for free.

This article will cover a wide range of topics, including how to set up the software and connect it to OBS, solutions when comments are not displayed properly, and a comparison of features with similar tools. If you want to enhance the visibility of comments during your streams and get closer to your listeners, please read until the end.

What is CastCraft? A Comment Display Tool Compatible with OBS

CastCraft is a free comment viewer that works on both YouTube and Twitch platforms, allowing you to easily implement comment display and interactive features in combination with OBS.

It has been chosen by many streamers, with a total of over 160 million subscribers across channels using it and a cumulative usage record of over 2.6 million times.

Below, we will explain the compatible platforms, cost, and basic usage in order.

Compatible Platforms | Supports YouTube and Twitch

CastCraft supports streaming on both YouTube and Twitch. The compatible streaming software includes OBS Studio, Streamlabs Desktop, and XSplit, with integration through browser source loading or a video capture device for OBS.

For Twitch streaming, simply log in with your Twitch account and click “Connect to Stream” to start receiving comments with ease. The display settings in OBS are the same as for YouTube streams, so there’s no need to reset them when switching streaming destinations.

Pricing | Free Basic Usage

CastCraft can be used for free as a base, with no charges for major features such as the comment viewer, chat box, chat bot, and Screen function. A monetization feature called “Tip Anytime” is available, where 90% of the tip amounts from viewers are returned to the streamers.

You can start by trying it for free and then add paid features as needed.

※ Pricing and revenue distribution may change. Please check the official information on each platform for the latest terms.

Main Features | Comment Management, Screen Performances, Text-to-Speech

CastCraft has six main features. When combined with OBS, it can be utilized not only as a comment viewer but also as a streaming performance tool.

The main features and their uses are as follows.

Feature	Overview
Comment Viewer	Distinguishes new and regular viewers with a NEW label and accumulates comment data for each viewer
Chat Box	Allows free design of the comment section that can be pasted into OBS
Screen (Streaming Performance)	Realizes “playable streams” with effects linked to tips and comments and a survey function
Chat Bot	Can set automatic replies to specific conditional comments
Text-to-Speech Integration	Compatible with external text-to-speech software like Bouyomi-chan and VOICEVOX
Tip Anytime	Monetization system with a 90% return

※ Specifications may change. Please check the official help for the latest information.

How to Display Comments on OBS Using CastCraft’s Overlay Function

The setup is complete simply by pasting the chat box URL from CastCraft into OBS’s browser source. Below, we will explain the process step-by-step from STEP 1 to STEP 4, so let’s proceed in order.

STEP 1. Install CastCraft and Log In

First, launch CastCraft and open the “Screen” tab. If you are using it for the first time, you will need to download and install it. Once the installation is complete, click the “Reload” button to start CastCraft Screen.

If you are streaming on Twitch, choose your Twitch account on the login screen and log in. CastCraft supports both YouTube and Twitch accounts, allowing you to switch as needed depending on the streaming platform.

STEP 2. Create a Chat Box and Choose a Design

Select “Craft Mode” at the top of CastCraft Screen, and open “Widget Settings” on the right. After clicking the “+” next to “Widget List,” select “Chat Box” to create a new one.

CastCraft offers multiple design templates such as Basic Light (simple single-line display) and Box Transparent Dark (box display). By clicking the pencil mark (edit button), you can customize the font, color, and appearance animation.

Adjust the appearance of your comments to fit your OBS streaming screen.

STEP 3. Paste the Overlay URL into OBS’s Browser Source

Open OBS and select “Browser” from “Sources.” Paste the overlay URL of the chat box generated by CastCraft into the “URL” field in the properties screen.

The recommended size for the browser source is a width of 480-640px and a height of 1,080px. Adjust the size so that the chat display does not interfere with the main content of your streaming layout. If you paste the URL generated by CastCraft correctly into OBS, you can proceed to the display test.

STEP 4. Connect to Streaming through Live Dashboard

Finally, connect to the stream from the “Live Dashboard” tab and start acquiring comments. Comments from viewers will appear in real-time on OBS’s screen, further enhancing the entertainment of your stream.

If you have concerns about your OBS streaming settings, you can refer to the article below.

>>How to Stream Games on OBS Studio: Beginner’s Guide

How to Display Comments on OBS using CastCraft Screen

CastCraft Screen captures video and offers interactive performances, in addition to comment display.

You can pin comments by clicking on them or activate effects linked to tips, allowing for more advanced presentations than with the overlay method.

Below, we will explain the setup steps from STEP 1 to STEP 4.

STEP 1. Install and Launch CastCraft Screen

First, launch CastCraft and open the “Screen” tab. If you are using it for the first time, you will need to download and install it. Once the installation is complete, click the “Reload” button to start CastCraft Screen.

STEP 2. Arrange the Chat Box in Craft Mode

Select “Craft Mode” at the top of CastCraft Screen, and open “Widget Settings” on the right. After clicking the “+” next to “Widget List,” select “Chat Box” to create a new one.

You can freely adjust the position, size, and design, and a preview of the comments will also be displayed.

STEP 3. Select CastCraft Screen as the Video Capture Device in OBS

Open OBS and select “Video Capture Device” from “Sources.” In the properties screen, select “CastCraft Screen” in the “Device Selection” field to display the chat box set in OBS.

STEP 4. Connect to Streaming through Live Dashboard

Finally, connect to the stream from the “Live Dashboard” tab and start acquiring comments. Comments from viewers will appear in real-time on OBS’s screen, further enhancing the entertainment of your stream.

Three OBS Integration Functions Outside of Comment Display in CastCraft

In addition to comment display, CastCraft also offers the following functions.

• Automatic response to viewer comments using a chat bot
• Record viewer information to distinguish between new and regular viewers
• Add interactive performances using CastCraft Screen

With functionalities that cannot be achieved by comment display alone, those who want to enhance their streams should definitely check this out.

Automatic Response to Viewer Comments using a Chat Bot

Using a chat bot allows you to automatically send response messages to comments from viewers or set custom messages that react to specific keywords.

For example, you can set messages that explain the rules of the stream or answer viewers’ questions automatically, facilitating smooth communication with them.

The chat bot enriches interaction with viewers, enhancing the excitement of your stream.

Record Viewer Information to Distinguish Between New and Regular Viewers

CastCraft has a feature that records the information of viewers who visit during the stream. You can respond to each viewer in a friendly manner, making them feel recognized.

For example, by automatically sending a message like “Thank you for coming again!” to viewers who participated before, you can make them feel special, which can also increase retention.

This function is effective for deepening relationships with viewers and invigorating the streaming community.

Add Interactive Performances using CastCraft Screen

Using CastCraft’s “CastCraft Screen” feature, you can add important announcements, countdown timers, scoreboards, and other information to the screen during your streams. This allows you to convey real-time information clearly to viewers, adding excitement and visual accents to your streams.

By utilizing it especially for events or game streams, it becomes easier to share progress and the next actions with viewers, making the stream even more exciting.

Moreover, the Screen feature allows you to automatically trigger image animations, text effects, and stamp performances linked to comments. There is also a function to display survey results in graph format using the comment section, allowing for smooth operation of interactive projects.

Comparing CastCraft with Other Comment Display Tools

Let’s also organize the differences with other comment display tools. There are several comment viewer software (comment views) that allows you to display comments on OBS.

Here, we will compare the functionalities of AliveStudio, Wancome, and Streamlabs. For those who want to streamline not only comment display but also the design and performance of the streaming screen, Alive Studio, which offers abundant materials for free in conjunction with OBS, is recommended.

Use this as a reference to identify a tool that fits your streaming style.

Alive Studio | Complete Design and Comment Display on OBS

Alive Studio is a streaming screen design service provided by GMO Pepabo, allowing you to complete the design of the streaming screen and the overlay display of comments directly on OBS. It supports integration with YouTube and Twitch, making it possible to acquire and display comments simply by connecting to the stream.

No knowledge of CSS is required; you only need to choose from several comment designs to complete the customization. It also accommodates combinations with comment boxes and opacity settings, creating designs that blend seamlessly with the streaming screen.

It offers comment-linked effects and comment voting functions, making it suitable for viewer-participation projects. On YouTube, it also includes a concurrent viewer count and like counter feature. There are two types: a basic free plan and a premium plan with unlimited access to all features and materials for a monthly fee of 980 yen (tax included), and there are no automatic charges after the free trial.

If you want to try Alive Studio, check the official site below.

Alive Studio

Wancome | Multi-Site Support with Rich Japanese UI

Wancome is a Japanese comment viewer that supports multiple streaming sites, including YouTube, Niconico Live, Twitch, TwitCasting, SHOWROOM, and KICK. The comment display on OBS is complete simply by dragging and dropping a template, making it easy for beginners to implement.

A notable feature is that the reading function is built-in, allowing comments to be read aloud without Bouyomi-chan. The PRO version also provides dedicated effects for survey functions and WordParty (comment-linked screen performance). It is suited for those who simultaneously stream on multiple sites or prioritize a rich Japanese UI.

Streamlabs | Popular All-in-One Tool for Overseas Streamers

This all-in-one tool has received support from overseas streamers. Streamlabs is an integrated software that adds convenient features for streaming on top of the OBS engine, compatible with major platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook.

A distinctive feature is that you can customize the appearance of comment displays by placing the chat box widget to your preference. It also covers a wide range of operational features, such as notification alerts for follows and subscriptions, as well as simultaneous streaming to multiple sites.

However, while Japanese localization has progressed, many parts of the interface and related documents are still based in English, which can be something to note. If you prioritize usability in Japanese, tools developed for the domestic market may offer a more comfortable experience.

Troubleshooting When CastCraft Comments Do Not Appear on OBS

If CastCraft comments do not appear in OBS, first check the connection status of the Live Dashboard and then review the URL and video capture device settings. Below are four common causes and their solutions.

Live Dashboard’s “Connect to Stream” is Not Connected

The most common reason comments do not appear is that you have not connected to the stream on the Live Dashboard. Open the CastCraft Live Dashboard tab and check if the “Connect to Stream” button has been pressed.

If the streaming hasn’t been started on the platform’s side, CastCraft cannot connect either. Confirm whether the stream has been started in the OBS or YouTube/Twitch management screens. Once connected, comments will start flowing on the Live Dashboard.

The URL Pasted into OBS’s Browser Source is Incorrect

If the URL pasted into OBS’s browser source is incorrect, comments will not be displayed. Re-copy the URL from the overlay management screen on CastCraft (in the left menu under “Overlay”) and paste it back into OBS’s browser source.

Please be careful not to share the URL with third parties. If the URL is leaked, there is a risk of comments from your stream appearing on someone else’s screen.

CastCraft Screen Does Not Appear in OBS’s Video Capture Device

If you are using CastCraft Screen, it may not appear as an option in OBS’s video capture device. There are several solutions for this issue, so let’s try them in order.

1. Close CastCraft, and run Uninstall.exe from C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Programs\CastCraft Screen to uninstall it.
2. Once you confirm the folder is empty, download and install it again from the Screen tab in CastCraft.

Additionally, it is worth noting that security software may block CastCraft’s operation. Be sure to add CastCraft and CastCraft Screen to the whitelist (exemption setting).

Restart OBS and Clear Cache

If the above measures do not improve the situation, restart OBS and clear the cache of the browser source. Cache issues can also cause comments on Twitch to not display.

Open the properties of the browser source in OBS and click the “Refresh current page cache” button at the bottom. If that doesn’t solve the issue, restarting OBS itself and deleting then recreating the browser source will completely reset the cache.

Three Benefits of Displaying Comments on OBS

Here are three benefits of displaying comments on OBS.

• Enhances a sense of unity with viewers
• Allows viewers to check missed comments
• Makes it less likely for streamers to overlook comments

Let’s take a closer look at each point.

Enhances a Sense of Unity with Viewers

By displaying comments on the screen, viewers feel more connected as they realize their comments are visible to the streamer and other viewers. Interactions in a public setting foster conversations among viewers, creating a sense of closeness with the streamer.

With comments appearing in real-time, viewers can experience a stronger sense of participation as part of the stream.

Allows Viewers to Check Missed Comments

Displaying comments on the screen makes it easier for viewers to catch up on any they missed during the stream. Especially in live streams, comments can scroll quickly, and it can be challenging to keep up with all of them during real-time interactions.

Being visible on the screen helps preserve past comments visually, making it easier to reflect on conversations and reactions among viewers.

Makes it Less Likely for Streamers to Overlook Comments

Normally, comments can scroll uncontrolled on the streamer’s screen, making it challenging to keep track of all of them. However, displaying them on the screen visually retains important comments and questions.

This allows for a smoother response to viewer reactions in real-time, enhancing communication with viewers.

Two Drawbacks of Displaying Comments on OBS

There are mainly two drawbacks of displaying comments on OBS.

• The screen may become difficult to see
• Inappropriate comments may be displayed

Let’s examine each of them.

The Screen May Become Difficult to See

When displaying comments on OBS, especially during game streams, part of the screen may be obscured by the comments, making it difficult for viewers to see crucial moments.

Depending on the content of your stream, you may need to adjust the location and size of the comment section or temporarily turn off comment display to maintain clarity.

Inappropriate Comments May Be Displayed

When displaying comments in real-time during live streams, there is a risk that inappropriate content or spam may immediately appear on the screen.

Since you cannot pre-screen comments from viewers, there is a possibility that sudden trolls or unpleasant remarks could disrupt the atmosphere of the stream. Using filtering features or having trusted moderators in place is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions about CastCraft and OBS

Here are some common questions regarding comment display in CastCraft and OBS. Refer to the following Q&A to resolve any doubts.

Is CastCraft free to use?

It can be used for free, with no charges for major features like comment viewer, chat box, chat bot, or Screen function. There is a paid option for the “Tip Anytime” feature, which returns 90% of the tip amount to streamers.

It is recommended to try it out within the free scope first and then add the tipping feature as needed.

Can I display Twitch comments on OBS using CastCraft?

It is compatible with Twitch, allowing you to display comments on OBS using the same steps as for YouTube. The specific steps are as follows.

1. Log in to CastCraft with your Twitch account
2. Create a chat box
3. Paste the URL into OBS’s browser source
4. Connect to the stream via the Live Dashboard, and you’re done.

How can I use the text-to-speech function in CastCraft?

You can integrate it with external text-to-speech software like Bouyomi-chan and VOICEVOX. Select the text-to-speech software you want to use from the settings menu and enable voice reading. Note that the text-to-speech software needs to be installed separately and must be running during the stream.

If Bouyomi-chan is not functioning, verify that the port number for Socket integration matches between CastCraft and Bouyomi-chan.

This allows you to audibly confirm comments while streaming on OBS, making it easier to respond to viewer comments even when you can’t see the chat during gameplay.

How can I make the comment display stylish on OBS?

Multiple design templates are available for chat boxes, allowing for stylish comment displays just by selecting from them. Simply switch the design to match the theme of your YouTube or Twitch streaming screen, and you’ll have an attractive comment section.

If you want to pursue further customization, there is also an overlay method that allows you to add CSS code to the custom CSS field in OBS’s browser source. By using CSS generation tools like the Streaming Toolkit, even CSS beginners can easily change fonts and colors.

Conclusion

With CastCraft, you can choose between the overlay URL method and the CastCraft Screen method for displaying comments. Both can be set up in just a few steps and are available for free.

If comments are not displaying, try the following four steps in order:

1. Check the connection on the Live Dashboard
2. Verify and re-paste the browser source URL
3. Check the video capture device settings (if using Screen method)
4. Restart OBS and clear cache

In addition to CastCraft, options like Alive Studio, which integrates design and comment display directly on OBS, Wancome, which supports multiple sites with built-in reading functions, and Streamlabs, an all-in-one tool originating overseas, are also available. Choose a tool that fits your streaming style and platform.

For a more detailed comparison of comment viewers, check out the article below.

>>OBS Comment Viewer Guide: Top 3 Tools and How to Install Them