RustCam guides
How do you want to use RustCam?
Same live AI camera, two ways to run it. Pick yours for step-by-step setup and fixes for common problems.
Web
In your browser
No install. Sign in, add funds to your wallet and go live from Chrome, Edge or Safari.
- Free demo, no account needed
- Pay per second from your wallet, in your currency
- Works on any computer
The desktop app
Windows and Mac app. Buy credits, create an API key and paste it into the app.
- One-time licence per computer
- Buy credits: $10 gives a set number of credits
- Your wallet shows Unlimited; credits pay for live time
Side by side
Which one fits you?
WebDesktop
Where it runsIn your browser (Chrome, Edge or Safari). Nothing to install.The RustCam Desktop app for Windows 10/11 or Mac.
What you needA free RustCam account.A RustCam account, a desktop licence (one per computer) and an API key.
How you payYour web wallet, in your local currency. Top it up with Add funds.Credits. Buy them in Settings → Billing (or turn on auto top-up), e.g. $10 for a set number of credits. Any service fee is shown before you pay. Credits also pay for RustStudio and RustVoice online.
How time is chargedPer second while you're live, from your wallet.Per second while you're live, from your credits. Credit for a session is set aside when you press Start; what you don't use comes back when you stop.
Your walletUsed for every live second.Not used. It shows as Unlimited in the desktop app.
What you paste inNothing.Your API key (it starts with rck_live_). Create it in Settings → API keys.
Wallet and creditsWallet money can't be turned into credits.Credits can't be moved to the wallet. They're separate.
Try it firstFree demo, no account needed.Try the web demo first.
Best forTrying RustCam, occasional use, any computer.Regular streaming on your own computer, with OBS.
Your web wallet and your desktop credits are separate: money in one can't be moved to the other. Not sure? Start with the free web demo. Need help with your camera or connection? Try Setup & help.