[FAQ]

I’m working on improving the quality of my Twitch stream, and I know that getting the video bitrate right is a huge part of that. I want to stream at 1080p, but I’m not sure what bitrate I should be setting in my software, like OBS, to get a high-quality, smooth stream without overloading my internet connection.

What are the recommended video bitrate settings for Twitch in 2025?

Any advice on finding that sweet spot would be great. Thanks!

[Jeff Bullas]

That is a crucial question. Choosing the right bitrate is a balancing act between picture quality and stream stability, and it is something every streamer needs to get right.

Before you pick a number from a guide, the most important thing you must do is check your internet’s stable upload speed. A good rule of thumb is that your video bitrate should not use more than about 75% of your total upload bandwidth. This leaves some headroom and helps prevent a choppy, lagging stream for your viewers.

Once you know what your connection can handle, you can choose the right bitrate for your desired quality. First, for the highest quality at 1080p and 60 frames per second (fps), which is ideal for fast-motion games, Twitch’s official recommended bitrate for non-partners is 6,000 Kbps. While partners can often push this higher, sticking to 6,000 Kbps is the safe, high-quality target.

Second, for content with less motion, such as a talk show or a slower-paced game, streaming at 1080p and 30 fps is a very efficient option. For this, a bitrate between 4,500 and 6,000 Kbps is generally sufficient.

Third, if your internet connection cannot comfortably handle a full 1080p stream, a resolution of 720p at 60 fps is an excellent compromise that still provides smooth motion for gameplay. The recommended bitrate for this is also typically in the 4,500 to 6,000 Kbps range.

Fourth, it is also important to consider your encoder settings in your streaming software like OBS. Using a hardware encoder, such as NVENC for NVIDIA graphics cards, is almost always preferable to the x264 (CPU) encoder. It puts less strain on your computer’s processor, which results in a smoother experience for both your game and your stream.

In summary, the best bitrate is tied directly to your upload speed and your quality goals. For a high-quality 1080p stream, aiming for 6,000 Kbps is the standard, provided your internet connection can comfortably support it. Always perform an upload speed test before you decide on your final settings.

Cheers,

Jeff

[Author]

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