Live Streaming With OBS
Last updated: September 1, 2026
OBS Studio sends video to any service that accepts RTMP, plus several that use newer protocols. The mechanics are the same everywhere: connect the account or paste a stream key, pick an encoder and bitrate your upload can sustain, then build the scenes you want viewers to see.
Connect a streaming service
Open Settings → Stream, choose the service from the list and either sign in or paste the stream key from the service's dashboard. Treat that key like a password — anyone who has it can broadcast to your channel.
OBS Studio is an independent open source project. It works with Twitch, YouTube Live and others through their public ingest endpoints; it is not a product of those companies.
Pick a bitrate and encoder
Run a speed test and plan to use no more than about 70% of your measured upload. Common starting points:
- 720p30: 3,000–3,500 kbps
- 720p60: 4,500 kbps
- 1080p30: 4,500–6,000 kbps
- 1080p60: 6,000–8,000 kbps where the service allows it
Use a GPU encoder if the same PC is running the game; use x264 with a slower preset if you have CPU headroom or a second machine.
Build your scenes
A workable minimum is three scenes: a starting screen, the main layout and an ending screen. Add sources in the order you want them stacked, then use transitions between them. A webcam source sits on top of the gameplay or desktop capture; a browser source hosts alerts and chat overlays.
Test before going live
Start a recording with the same settings first, or use your service's private test mode. Watch for dropped frames in the status bar — the numbers there tell you whether the problem is the network or the encoder. If frames go missing, work through the dropped frames checklist.
Platform-specific values for Twitch are on the Twitch settings page.
Frequently asked questions
Can OBS Studio stream and record at the same time?
Yes. Both outputs run in parallel; the recording can use a higher bitrate than the stream.
What bitrate should I use for streaming?
Stay near 70% of your measured upload speed: roughly 4,500 kbps for 720p60 and 6,000 kbps for 1080p60, subject to the service's own limit.
Do I need a capture card to stream from a PC?
No. A capture card is only needed for a console or a second computer. A single PC captures its own screen or game directly.