You do not need to spend money to build a great gaming setup. These free apps cover chat, recording, library management and performance on phones and PCs.
In this article
Discord — voice chat and communities
The default place for gaming groups. Voice channels, screen sharing, text chat and community servers, on phone, PC and web. Paid Nitro is optional; the core app is free.
OBS Studio — recording and streaming (PC)
Free, open-source software for recording gameplay and streaming to YouTube or Twitch. It has a learning curve, but it is what many streamers use.
Steam mobile app
Approve logins with Steam Guard, chat with friends, browse sales and start downloads on your PC remotely so games are ready when you get home.
Xbox and PlayStation apps
Both console makers offer free companion apps for messaging, managing captures, buying games and starting downloads remotely.
Built-in game modes on Android
Many Android phones include a game dashboard or game booster (the name varies by brand) that can block notifications, show FPS and adjust performance. Look for it in Settings or in the app drawer before installing a third-party “booster”.
A note on “RAM cleaner” and “booster” apps
Most third-party booster apps add ads and permissions without making games faster. Android and iOS already manage memory well. We recommend avoiding them.
Handy browser tools
For quick maths, bookmark our free Download Time Calculator and Mobile Gaming Data Usage Calculator.