Selecting the right video bitrate is a critical aspect of improving your Twitch stream’s quality while maintaining stability. Ensuring a balance between picture clarity and stream performance is essential for all streamers.
To determine the ideal bitrate, start by checking your internet’s stable upload speed. It’s recommended that your video bitrate should not exceed 75% of your total upload bandwidth to avoid potential stream disruptions and lags.
For a high-quality stream at 1080p and 60 frames per second, Twitch’s suggested bitrate for non-partners is 6,000 Kbps. Partners may have the flexibility to go higher, but sticking to 6,000 Kbps ensures a safe and top-notch stream quality.
If your content involves less motion, like talk shows or slower-paced games at 1080p and 30 fps, a bitrate ranging from 4,500 to 6,000 Kbps is generally adequate.
For instances where your internet connection struggles with a full 1080p stream, opting for 720p at 60 fps serves as a good compromise. The recommended bitrate for this resolution falls within the 4,500 to 6,000 Kbps range.
Moreover, consider utilizing hardware encoders like NVENC for NVIDIA graphics cards in your streaming software, such as OBS, over the x264 (CPU) encoder. Hardware encoders reduce strain on your computer’s processor, resulting in a smoother streaming and gaming experience.
In conclusion, the best bitrate is closely linked to your upload speed and streaming quality objectives. For a high-quality 1080p stream, target a bitrate of 6,000 Kbps, ensuring your internet connection can support it comfortably. Always conduct an upload speed test before finalizing your settings for an optimal streaming experience.
Happy streaming!
Sean