If you watch streamers on Twitch, you may have heard someone mention a program called OBS or Open Broadcaster Software. This free, open source software is the number one choice for streaming content online. It brings every part of your broadcast together so you can control your microphone, camera, streaming content, graphic effects, and settings from one place.
While programs like Twitch Studio simplify online streaming, many streamers praise the amount of control they get from OBS and urge beginners to learn the program. It may seem complicated at first, but OBS is generally an intuitive program. It’s also free and backed by an enthusiastic community, so why not take the time to learn?
How to set up OBS
First, you will need to Download OBS. The software is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Once installed, the OBS Auto Configuration Wizard will open and help you customize the software to your needs. It scans your computer and makes any necessary settings adjustments, although you can change all of these settings after this happens if you don’t like how it’s set up.
If you are going to use OBS to stream via a live streaming service, such as Twitch, you will also need to associate a Stream Key. Each Twitch streamer has an individual stream switch that allows OBS to stream through your account. To find your broadcast key, log into your Twitch account and go to Account Settings > Channel and Videos > Broadcasting.
Your key will be at the top of this screen. Copy your code and go back to OBS. to open File > Settings and click Stream tab. Select your streaming service from the dropdown list (we’re using Twitch here), click use broadcast key, And paste the code you copied.
click Account LinkLog in to your account and authorize access. OBS must now be configured to stream on your Twitch account.
Stream customization
Now that your account is linked to OBS, you can start streaming. However, you should take a minute to get familiar with the interface and controls. Along the bottom row, you’ll find many chests that serve different purposes.
The view A box that allows you to quickly switch between your video source and anything you might want to show to your audience (eg an AFK screen or a countdown timer until your broadcast begins). The source The section where you can add different sources of content, such as gameplay or face cam. These sources link to whatever scene you’re currently in so they don’t affect anything else.
for you audio mixer The clip is where you can manage the audio for these different sources and which microphones you use. The Scene transmission The section where you can add an effect when switching between scenes. under controls Where you can start broadcasting, record video, access settings, and more.
Open the Docks menu to add more partitions to the OBS screen or remove the ones you don’t need. Some of the items you might want to add include a chat stream box to review messages from your audience, a broadcast info box where you can add a title, bio, category, and any tags that might make it easier to find your broadcast.
tap on Settings The button in the lower right corner of the OBS window to access additional options so you can start using the software like a pro. For example, you can click on the Hotkeys tab to assign tasks to different keys on your keyboard. Things like stopping and starting a broadcast, your webcam, and transitions can be set by clicking on the black bar opposite them and pressing the key you want to use.
There are countless things you can do on OBS to differentiate yourself from other streaming software with proprietary software. Fortunately, the OBS team has resource forum You can ask questions, support others’ streams, or even connect with the OBS team if you have requests for new features.
Start your broadcast
When you’re ready to start streaming, open the PC game you want to stream. You will need to make sure you are broadcasting the correct program, so press the plus sign (+) in the Sources section and select pick up game.
Open the source you just added and use the dropdown menu to select Capture a specific window, then choose your game from the list of open programs. press yes The preview window in the middle of the screen should display the game. You can then change the size of the game window.
Through a similar process, you can also add a webcam (video capture device) and microphone (audio input device). All you have to do is choose the right device to use and OBS will set it up. You can then adjust your video to fit your screen.
When you’re ready to go live, tap Start broadcast The button located in the lower right corner of the program. You will then start broadcasting directly to your Twitch stream.
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