Switching desk
Transitions & operator shortcuts
Transition settings
Operator shortcuts
Space Cut PVW to PGM
Enter Run AUTO transition
B Toggle Fade to Black
Esc Exit output fullscreen
Playback options & media transport
Use USB UVC capture devices for HDMI camera feeds. Click a tile to cue it in PVW; CUT/AUTO sends it to PGM. Sources with camera/screen permission are local to your browser and aren't uploaded.
Graphics, audio & recording settings
Lower third / graphics
Audio / playback
Output / recording
Record downloads a WebM file (browser codec-dependent). For OBS streaming, capture the clean output window. Direct SDI/NDI/RTMP hardware output requires additional software or a server.
Free online video switcher: operator guide, workflows and FAQs
How a browser-based video switcher works
This free online video switcher provides a preview/program workflow similar to a production switcher: stage a source in Preview (PVW), then move it to Program (PGM) when it is time to show that feed. The switching engine runs in the browser on your own computer. It does not require a paid online account, a downloaded application or an external video-processing server for basic operation. The system is designed for operator practice, smaller event workflows, rehearsal and learning how live switching decisions are made.
Prepare video sources before a live event
Start with the built-in test patterns, then add only the feeds you need. Browser screen capture can show a presentation or window after you grant permission. A USB camera or UVC-compatible HDMI capture interface can provide an additional input. Uploading a video or image creates another source tile. Source permissions and available audio depend on your browser, computer, USB hardware and operating-system settings. A physical HDMI or SDI signal cannot enter a browser without suitable capture hardware.
Preview, take, and transition
Selecting a source tile places it in PVW without immediately changing what the audience sees. CUT switches instantly. AUTO runs the chosen timed transition, while the manual T-bar lets you progress through a transition at your own pace. Black/fade controls are available when the show calls for a clean blackout. This separation between selection and take is especially helpful when one operator is switching presentation playback, camera feeds and lower-third graphics in a single cue sequence.
Send a clean program feed
The clean Program output opens in a separate window that you can move to an extended desktop monitor. That window can be made fullscreen for a projector, confidence monitor or LED processor receiving the computer's display output. Confirm that the computer is configured for Extend rather than Duplicate, and confirm image scaling and screen resolution at the display device. The software does not provide genlocked SDI/HDMI hardware switching, native NDI transport, or built-in RTMP/SRT streaming services.
Sound, overlays, and recordings
For sources that include sound, verify what the browser permits you to capture. Use the built-in microphone level, clip audio controls and mute options while monitoring for clipping or feedback. The lower-third title, subtitle and logo overlay can be added to Program without editing the underlying files. Recording creates a local WebM download when supported; it is not a cloud recording service. Confirm file downloads, available disk space and the chosen browser codec before the actual show.
Practical checks before using any free web-based switcher
- Use a current desktop browser and an HTTPS page when requesting camera, microphone or screen access.
- Test source capture, graphics, output-window popups, local recording and audio routing with the exact event laptop.
- Rehearse all cuts and timed transitions, and keep the operator tab open during the presentation.
- Check processor, GPU and USB capture limitations before choosing 4K output or multiple simultaneous sources.
- For mission-critical productions, maintain a backup routing method and an alternative playback path.
Frequently asked questions
Is this video switcher really free to use online? Yes. The basic switching application operates directly in a supported web browser and needs no subscription or account. Some advanced workflows may need separately purchased capture or output hardware.
Can I switch between an HDMI camera and a presentation? Yes, if the camera is connected through a browser-supported UVC capture interface and you separately allow presentation screen capture.
Can I stream directly to YouTube, Vimeo or a broadcast destination? Not from this tool alone. Capture its Program output with separate streaming software or use an external encoder configured for your streaming service.
Will camera sources automatically appear on another computer? No. Sources and switching are local to the browser session; remote production requires an additional media transport system.