why is my stream lagging
why is my stream lagging
I experienced issues with streaming on a newer PC, especially under heavy gameplay. The system struggled with lag, and the task manager indicated high GPU usage while OBS reported minimal CPU activity. Adjusting GPU settings in the game improved performance, but the new CPU configuration seemed to be handling the stream better. I’m unsure why this change occurred. What steps should I take?
- Can I capture a screenshot of your OBS settings? Specifically, the video tab, output tab (including streaming and recording options), and the full system details such as CPU, RAM, GPU, internet speed (using Speedtest.net, omitting your IP), and the streaming platform (YouTube or Twitch)?
- What service are you using for streaming?
- Would you like an autograph when you become more famous? Just a joke—please don’t think of it as a serious request.
- Welcome to the forums! Please include the person you’re responding to, like @Moonzy, so they get a notification with the arrow below your post.
Video link: https://prnt.sc/u2q64p Output link: https://prnt.sc/u2q6f9 Before my bitrate was around 1300, I probably checked YouTube and adjusted the settings. A speed test showed 8mb down and 5mb up, which is lower than my usual 10mb up. My ISP just got a new one recently, and I haven’t had any streaming issues even with Netflix. I’ve been streaming for about three years now. My setup includes a 3900x32gb RAM RX 580 graphics card, and I’m waiting to upgrade to 3080. I mainly use Twitch and hope I never gain too much fame there. I prefer a smaller community that really supports me. If I had more bandwidth, I’d be able to chat with regulars more often, even with a dozen people online at once.
I notice the resolution is shifting to 720p. Consider using a Lanczos scaler for better quality. If your internet speed is slow (around 4500kbps), try reducing the bitrate to 3000 or even 2000. Streaming at medium CPU usage preset may help reduce stuttering. If OBS reports the encoder is overloaded, switch to the fast preset and watch for any changes in the bitrate display. When your CPU is under pressure, the results should improve. It depends on the games you play and your current settings. I also stream for fun and usually get 1-2 viewers, though I felt stressed once with only a few viewers. It’s okay if it feels off—just adjust based on what OBS tells you during stutters.
Running OBS as an administrator doesn't alter its behavior significantly.
I haven't watched it on Twitch yet, but I just tried running it as an admin and it seems to actually use my CPU for streaming now. I can play games at full capacity without any problems. Thanks a lot. It looks like it's set up differently from my main SSD—maybe that's the reason? This used to be my main HDD, but I switched to an SSD when I got the new CPU.