OBS StudioTutorial2 min read

How do I stream to YouTube with OBS?

Stream to YouTube Live from OBS using your stream key or OAuth login, with recommended settings for 1080p and stable upload.

Streaming desk setup with microphone and monitor

Streaming to YouTube vs Twitch

YouTube Live reaches a different audience — VOD-focused viewers who discover streams through search and recommendations. OBS connects to YouTube the same way as Twitch, but YouTube allows higher bitrates and supports 1440p and 4K streams on verified accounts.

Step 1 — Enable YouTube Live

Go to studio.youtube.com and verify your phone number if prompted — YouTube requires verification before your first live stream. Once verified, click Create → Go Live to open YouTube Studio's live dashboard.

Step 2 — Get Your Stream Key

In YouTube Studio, select Stream (not Webcam) on the left. Copy the Stream key shown on the right. Keep it private. You can reset it anytime from the same page if it is ever exposed.

Step 3 — Configure OBS for YouTube

Open OBS → Settings → Stream. Set Service to YouTube - RTMPS and paste your stream key. Alternatively, click Connect Account (recommended) to log in with OAuth — this avoids manually copying keys and enables easier title changes from OBS.

Step 4 — Recommended Bitrate and Resolution

YouTube recommends up to 15000 Kbps for 1440p60 and 4500–9000 Kbps for 1080p60 depending on content. Under Settings → Output, use NVENC or x264 with a bitrate matching your upload speed — run a speed test and leave 20% headroom. Set FPS and resolution under Settings → Video.

Step 5 — Set Title and Go Live

In YouTube Studio, enter your stream title, category, and thumbnail before starting. Click Start Streaming in OBS. Return to YouTube Studio and confirm the preview shows your feed, then click Go Live on YouTube's end. YouTube may show "Starting" for up to a minute on first streams.

YouTube Live Tips

  • Verify your YouTube account before the first stream
  • Use RTMPS and keep your stream key secret
  • YouTube allows higher bitrates than Twitch — use them if your upload supports it
  • Set title and thumbnail in YouTube Studio before going live
  • Streams become VODs automatically — great for long-term discoverability

YouTube rewards consistency and searchable titles, so plan your stream topic before you hit Start Streaming.

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