[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 different resolutions and frame rates on Twitch in 2025?

[Jeff Bullas]

That’s an excellent question to ask. Nailing your bitrate is the key to balancing a high-quality picture with a smooth, stable stream for your viewers.

Before you choose a setting, the most important thing you must know is your internet’s stable upload speed. A good rule of thumb is that your total bitrate should not exceed about 75% of your upload bandwidth to prevent a choppy, lagging stream.

Once you know your upload speed, you can choose the right bitrate for your desired resolution and frame rate. First, for the highest quality at 1080p and 60 frames per second (fps), which is ideal for fast-motion games, Twitch officially supports a bitrate up to 6,000 Kbps, but many streamers find success pushing this slightly higher if their connection is stable, often in the 6,000 to 8,000 Kbps range if they have partner status. For non-partners, sticking to 6,000 Kbps is the safest best practice.

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

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

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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