How to stream to YouTube from OBS

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read

Expert Verified

Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To stream to YouTube from OBS (Open Broadcaster Software), you need to configure your OBS settings, obtain your YouTube stream key, and start streaming. This guide provides detailed steps for various operating systems and troubleshooting tips.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start streaming to YouTube from OBS, ensure you have the following:

•A computer that meets the minimum system requirements for OBS: Windows 10/11, macOS 10.13 or later, or a compatible Linux distribution.
•A stable internet connection with an upload speed of at least 3 Mbps for 720p streaming.
•A YouTube account with live streaming enabled (you may need to verify your account).
•OBS Studio installed (latest version recommended).
•Backup any important data, especially if you are using OBS for the first time.

Method 1: Streaming via OBS Studio

This is the primary method for streaming to YouTube using OBS Studio. It is suitable for most users and provides the most flexibility.

•Step 1: Open OBS Studio and click on 'Settings' in the lower right corner.
•Step 2: In the Settings window, select 'Stream' from the left sidebar. Under 'Service', select 'YouTube / YouTube Gaming'.
•Step 3: Click on 'Get Stream Key' or manually enter your stream key obtained from YouTube Studio. To find your stream key, go to YouTube Studio > Create > Go Live > Stream > Stream Key.
•Step 4: Click 'OK' to save your settings. You should see a confirmation message at the bottom of the OBS window.
•Step 5: Click 'Start Streaming' in the lower right corner of OBS. You should see a green indicator showing that you are live.
•Step 6: To verify it worked, check your YouTube Studio under 'Live' to see if your stream is active.
•Step 7: If it doesn't work, ensure your stream key is correct and that your internet connection is stable.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users may notice a slightly different interface in OBS Studio.

•Ensure you have the latest version of OBS compatible with Windows 11.
•Use the Windows 11 taskbar to access OBS quickly, and follow the same steps as outlined above.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will follow the same steps as Windows 11 but may have a different layout.

•Check for Windows updates to ensure compatibility with OBS.
•Use the Windows search bar to find and open OBS Studio.

Method 2: Streaming via YouTube Live Dashboard

This method allows you to set up your stream directly from the YouTube Live Dashboard and then connect OBS.

•Step 1: Go to YouTube Studio and click on 'Create' > 'Go Live'.
•Step 2: Select 'Stream' and configure your stream settings (title, description, etc.).
•Step 3: Under 'Stream Settings', find your Stream Key and copy it.
•Step 4: Open OBS Studio, go to 'Settings' > 'Stream', and paste the Stream Key.
•Step 5: Click 'OK' and then 'Start Streaming' in OBS.
•Step 6: Check the YouTube Live Dashboard to confirm your stream is live.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while streaming, consider the following solutions:

•Error: 'Stream Key Invalid' - Solution: Ensure you are using the correct stream key from YouTube Studio.
•Issue: 'Dropped Frames' - Fix: Check your internet connection and reduce the output resolution in OBS settings.
•Problem: 'Stream Not Starting' - Workaround: Restart OBS and check your firewall settings to ensure OBS is allowed to connect to the internet.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your streaming experience with these tips:

•Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + R (Windows) or Command + R (macOS) - Starts/stops recording.
•Command line: obs64.exe --startstreaming - Launches OBS and starts streaming immediately.
•Hidden feature: Studio Mode - Access this from the 'View' menu to preview scenes before transitioning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal streaming performance, always test your setup before going live.