How to use OBS (Open Broadcaster Software)
When it comes to free broadcasting software, there’s only one contender: OBS, orOpen Broadcaster Software. Though until 2018 the open-source app looked like it came straight from Windows 98, a UI update has provided a much-needed facelift. It also makes OBS easier to use, especially for those new to the world of livestreaming.
It still doesn’t come with any kind of tutorial though, and sorting through sources and scenes might be confusing for some. Don’t worry; we’ve been using OBS for some time, and here’s where we talk you through everything you need to know about OBS, from connecting to your streaming platform to adding a live webcam feed to your game streams.
If OBS seems a little complicated, why not take a look at our recommendations of thebest capture and streaming software for PCand opt for something that’s easier to use?
Set up OBS to stream on Twitch, YouTube and Facebook
The first step in live streaming your favourite games using OBS is to connect to your preferred streaming platform, be it YouTube, Facebook or Twitch. OBS does support other services, as well as the ability to connect to a custom streaming server, but we’ll only be covering the three most popular platforms in this tutorial.
To connect to your preferred livestream platform, follow these steps:
From here, you’ll have to select your platform. Each service has a slightly different setup process, so we’ll run through each below.
Twitch
YouTube
Facebook Live
How to set up your stream layout
Now you’ve configured your stream, the next step is to set up the layout of your stream, whether that’s by adding a live webcam feed, adding your Twitter handle so people can follow you, or simply by adding nice images or a banner around the edges of your stream.
OBS has two windows; scenes and sources. Each scene is comprised of multiple sources, from the game capture window to your live webcam input and more. You can create multiple scenes for different games and load them up simply by selecting them from the scene menu, giving your stream layout a more custom look.
If you want to keep it simple, you can create a single scene for all games too!
Once you’ve created your scene, you’ll need to add your sources. Here’s how to add the most important visual elements for any successful live stream.
Add your game source
Most crucially, you need to select the window that OBS is going to capture and stream. To do this:
Add your webcam
If you really want to add some personality to your live streams, why not include your live webcam feed? It’ll allow your followers to see how you react to crucial game moments both in-game and in real life, and provides more of a connection to your audience. We’ve rounded up a selection of thebest webcams for streamingif you’re in the market for one.
Add text
You can also add text to direct followers to your social media accounts to help build your following. It’s easy to do too:
You can also design your own custom text to add to your livestream. For more information, check out our tutorial onadding text to live streams using OBS.
Add images
If you want to give your live stream that custom finish, why not add a custom banner? It’s really easy to add images to your OBS live stream:
How to initiate livestream
Once you’ve connected to your preferred streaming platform and you’re happy with the placement of all your on-screen elements, it’s time to go live. In OBS, it’s easy to go live – simply click Start Streaming in the bottom-right corner of the main OBS window.
Author: Lewis Painter, Contributor
Lewis Painter was once a Tech Advisor Senior Staff Writer. He covers everything from iPhone to AirPods, plus a range of smartphones, tablets, laptops and gaming hardware.
