In this guide, we’ll cover how to get started with OBS Studio, how to set up a stream with source layers, and how to start your first Twitch stream.
How to Install OBS Studio
OBS Studio is available for Windows PC, Mac, and Linux and can be downloaded for free from the official website.
How to Connect Your Twitch Account and Set up OBS Studio
To broadcast to the Twitch network under your Twitch username, you will need to link OBS Studio to your Twitch account.
Understanding Media Sources in OBS Studio
Everything you see in your OBS Studio workspace is what your viewers will see when you start streaming. It should be completely black when you begin a new profile. Content can be added from a variety of sources to make the stream more engaging. Examples of media sources that you can add to OBS Studio could be your video game console (for example you can stream from Xbox One or Nintendo Switch), an open program or game on your computer, your webcam, a microphone, a media player (for background music), or image files (for visuals). Each source is added to your OBS Studio layout as its own individual layer. This is so media sources can be placed on top of or beneath others to show or hide specific content. For example, a webcam is usually placed on top of a background image so the viewer can see the webcam. Sources can have their layer order changed by using the Sources box on the bottom of the screen. To move a source up a layer, click and drag it higher up the list. To conceal it behind other sources, drag it down. Selecting the eye icon next to its name will make it completely invisible.
How to Create a Basic Twitch Stream Layout in OBS Studio
There are numerous media types and plugins that can be added to a Twitch layout and a near-infinite number of ways to display them. Here’s a basic introduction to the four most popular items to add to a layout.
Add a Background Image or Graphic
Adding Gameplay Footage to Your Stream
To stream video game footage from a console, you’ll need a capture card connected to your chosen console. The Elgato HD60 is a popular capture card with new and experienced streamers because of its price, simplicity, and high-quality video and audio.
How to Add a Webcam to OBS Studio
The process of adding a webcam to an OBS Studio is done the same way as adding gameplay footage. Make sure your webcam is turned on and select it from the same dropdown menu in Video Capture Device. Remember to name it something you’ll remember like “webcam,” and make sure it’s placed above your background.
A Word About Twitch Alerts (Or Notifications)
Alerts are special notifications that appear during Twitch streams to celebrate special events such as a new follower or subscriber, or a donation. They work differently than adding local media as the alerts are powered by third-party services such as StreamLabs and must be linked to as a URL or website address. Here’s how to add StreamLabs notifications to your stream layout in OBS Studio. This method is similar for other alert services.
How to Start a Twitch Stream in OBS Studio
Now that the basic settings are dealt with, you are ready to stream on Twitch with your new OBS Studio-powered layout. Simply select the Start Streaming button in the bottom-right corner of OBS Studio, wait for the connection to the Twitch servers to be made, and you’re live.
