Optimize your Twitch stream for weaker hardware by adjusting settings like resolution, bitrate, and encoding options.
Optimize your Twitch stream for weaker hardware by adjusting settings like resolution, bitrate, and encoding options.
Hi everyone. Since I'm just starting out with streaming and video creation, I'm curious about the best setup for OBS on a mid-range PC. I have a system with these specs: an Intel i5 6500, an MSI gaming X1060 with 6GB RAM, a Crucial Balistix 16GB SSD, a Seagate Green 1TB HDD, and a Seasonic 520 80+ Bronze power supply. I'm planning to stream Dota 2, Doom 2016, CSGO, and League of Legends at 720p and 60fps. Thanks for the attention!
You're right about the i5's limitations with x264 encoding. Streaming in acceptable quality is possible using hardware encoding on the GPU. In OBS, change the encoding to NVENC if it appears. To maintain good visuals without lag, aim for a high bitrate—Twitch can handle it as long as your internet supports it. X264 gives better quality but requires about 3000 bits per second, which your CPU can't handle. The GPU will be less powerful, but it should still work smoothly and won't interfere with gameplay. You'll likely need around 6000 bits per second for a clear stream.
NVENC, 6k resolution, 30 frames per second (delivers higher quality per shot). Expect minimal impact on performance.
Shadowplay offers minimal system impact but I’m unsure about overlays and banners compared to other tools. Since the 700 series, I haven’t tested its capabilities in those areas. I recall streaming in 1080p with the same settings as usual, and there was no significant performance drop on the 760 I owned. It’s already installed unless you omitted the GFE setup, so it’s worth exploring.
I believe Shadow isn't fully prepared for streaming on low-end hardware. My preset was set for 720 at 30fps, but it keeps disconnecting even though I told it to reduce the settings.
It might relate to an internet or Twitch problem instead of a hardware fault. A 6500 and 1060 are still capable systems.