Metastream Alternative for 2026
Metastream still runs, but it needs a browser extension for most sites. SyncUp handles YouTube, Twitch, Kick, SoundCloud, and YouTube Music with nothing to install.
- No sign-up required
- Free to use
- Switch in seconds
Last verified August 2026
SyncUp vs Metastream
| Feature | SyncUp | Metastream |
|---|---|---|
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| No install required | Yes | No |
| Actively maintained | Yes | Yes |
| YouTube support | Yes | Yes |
| Twitch support | Yes | No |
| Kick support | Yes | No |
| Mobile support | Yes | No |
| Streaming services | Via extension | Via extension |
| Video sync | Yes | Yes |
| Private rooms | Yes | Yes |
Why Switch to SyncUp?
Metastream pioneered watch parties and still works today, but it leans on a browser extension for most sites. SyncUp supports YouTube, Twitch, Kick, SoundCloud, and YouTube Music natively.
Playlist Voting
Let the room vote on what to watch next. Built-in queue management with role-based controls.
More Platforms
Watch YouTube, Twitch, Kick, SoundCloud, and YouTube Music together, plus streaming services via the free browser extension.
Mobile Ready
Fully optimized for phones and tablets, not just desktop browsers.
Free To Use
The basics stay free. Optional Plus plan for bigger rooms and longer voice chat.
No Install Needed
Works directly in your browser. No desktop app or extension required to get started.
Privacy First
Private rooms by default. Only people with your code can join.
What happened to Metastream?
Metastream stopped publishing as open source in August 2024, but it still runs at getmetastream.com and its browser extension is still updated. It needs that extension for sites like Netflix. SyncUp is a browser-based alternative that handles YouTube, Twitch, Kick, SoundCloud, and YouTube Music with nothing to install.
Is SyncUp really free?
Yes. The basics are free: rooms, sync, chat, playlist voting, friends, watching YouTube, Twitch, Kick, SoundCloud and YouTube Music. Free rooms hold up to 5 people. There's an optional Plus plan if you want bigger rooms or longer voice chat, but you don't need it.
Do I need to install anything?
No - SyncUp works directly in your browser for YouTube, Twitch, Kick, SoundCloud, and YouTube Music. For streaming services, there's a free optional browser extension.
Does SyncUp work on mobile?
Yes! SyncUp is fully optimized for mobile devices. Watch together with friends from your phone or tablet on any modern browser.
What platforms does SyncUp support?
SyncUp supports YouTube videos and playlists, Twitch live streams and VODs, Kick live streams, SoundCloud tracks and playlists, and YouTube Music tracks built-in. For streaming services, there's a free browser extension available.
How is the sync quality?
SyncUp uses real-time WebSocket synchronization to keep everyone's playback aligned within ~200ms. When anyone plays, pauses, or seeks, all viewers update instantly.
Ready to Switch?
Create your first SyncUp room in seconds. No account required, no learning curve.