For a VM that only relays an already encoded stream, start with a Compute Engine e2-standard-2 in Mumbai or Delhi, then verify it against your actual continuous workload. It has 2 vCPUs and 8 GB of memory. If the VM must capture, compose, decode, or encode video in real time, there is no universally supported VM-size answer: benchmark the complete video pipeline before relying on it around the clock.
Choose the VM size by what it does
The important distinction is whether the instance forwards a finished video stream or processes video before sending it to YouTube. Google describes the E2 family as cost-optimized general-purpose machines, but that does not establish how a particular instance will perform with every encoder, format, and production workload. Google’s E2 machine-type documentation lists the available configurations and their resources.
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| VM workload | Starting point | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Relay or stream copy: the video is already encoded and the VM forwards it without re-encoding | e2-standard-2: 2 vCPUs and 8 GB memory | CPU and memory use, sustained stream continuity, and whether the real ingest and upload paths remain stable |
| Software encoding, decoding, overlays, or other real-time video processing | No universal size is established; test the exact workload | Codec, resolution, frame rate, encoder settings, overlays, other processes, CPU headroom, and stream health |
| Capture and production, such as a camera or gameplay feed with overlays and audio | Workload-dependent; the title does not specify enough to prescribe a size | Every capture, composition, audio, and encoding task running on the instance |
A small shared-core VM is not automatically a safer low-cost choice for an always-active stream process. Google’s E2 documentation says e2-small sustains 0.5 vCPU and e2-medium sustains 1 vCPU, although the guest sees two vCPUs. Do not judge these types by the guest-visible vCPU count alone; use one only after observing the actual workload.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteWhat e2-standard-2 does—and does not—tell you
For a relay, e2-standard-2 is a conservative starting point, not a performance guarantee. Run the stream with your actual source, software, and target output, and check that the CPU has headroom while the stream remains continuous. A workload that only forwards an encoded feed is materially different from one that also decodes, overlays, or re-encodes it.
#1 Best Overall
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YouTube automatically transcodes live streams into multiple viewer output formats. That downstream service does not remove the work your own VM must do to capture, compose, or encode its outgoing feed. Keep the creator-side processing load separate from YouTube’s viewer-side distribution when sizing the machine. YouTube’s live streaming overview describes the platform workflow.
Set the stream target before estimating network capacity
YouTube’s live-encoder recommendations depend on codec, resolution, and frame rate. Its H.264 guidance includes these recommended bitrate ranges:
Rank #2
- 【Great power in a small computer】Get fast performance from the AMD Ryzen 5 3500U CPU (2.1GHz-3.7GHz, 4 Cores 8 Threads) inside this mini pc, TDP 15W up to 25W. It's perfect for all your home office and business use, like daily computing, web browsing, and smooth media streaming. This small desktop computer handles everyday tasks easily and quietly.
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| Output | YouTube-recommended H.264 bitrate range |
|---|---|
| 720p at 30 fps | 3–8 Mbps |
| 1080p at 30 fps | 5–14 Mbps |
| 1080p at 60 fps | 6–17 Mbps |
These are YouTube encoder settings, not Compute Engine sizing benchmarks. Check the recommendation for your exact codec and output before planning bandwidth. YouTube Help advises: “Have enough bandwidth: The total bitrate that you’re streaming cannot exceed the amount of upload bandwidth available. Leave a bit of room (20% recommended).” It also warns that a connection disruption could break the stream. Treat the 20% as YouTube’s published operational guidance, not as a guarantee that a particular VM or network will be stable. YouTube’s live encoder settings and streaming tips cover bitrate and connection preparation.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
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Pick an Indian region, then compare the real setup
Google lists E2 availability in both Mumbai (asia-south1) and Delhi (asia-south2). Choose between them based on where your stream source and operators are, and compare observed latency and service availability for your own setup. Regional availability alone does not show which location will deliver better latency or reliability for a particular channel. Google Cloud’s regions and zones list shows location availability.
Rank #3
- 【AMD Ryzen 3 5300U CPU: Outperforms N150 & 3500U】 BOSGAME E5 mini PC is powered by the TSMC 7nm FinFET architecture AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor (4 Cores, 8 Threads, up to 3.8GHz boost, 6MB total cache). Compared to low-end Intel N150 or 3500U chips which only have 4 single threads and throttle under load, the 5300U delivers over 30% faster multi-core speed. Run 30+ browser tabs, large Excel sheets, and Zoom meetings simultaneously without system lag.
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Estimate the full 24/7 cost, not just the VM rate
Google Cloud presents machine prices by region and consumption model and directs customers to its Pricing Calculator for estimates. Configure the region and billable resources you intend to use, and include 24/7 runtime, the boot disk, network use, and any attached resources. A VM hourly rate alone is not the total bill; without those choices and a billing date, a single all-in INR estimate would be misleading. Rates and currency conversion can change. Google Cloud’s Compute Engine pricing page links to the calculator.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When a VM is the wrong tool for a prerecorded loop
If your goal is simply to keep uploaded prerecorded videos looping as a YouTube live stream, rather than to run a custom capture or encoding pipeline, StreamNeo is the first alternative to consider: it runs from the cloud, streams uploaded video at its original quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, and offers the first day free.
Rank #4
- Office Gaming Mini PC - UPGRADED GMKtec Nucbox M5 Ultra Series is equipped with the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor, 8 Cores/16 Threads, Base 2.00GHz (Power Saving Quiet Mode) with Turbo Boost up to 4.50GHz (Performance Mode) in BIOS settings, Based on the ZEN 3+ architecture, this small but powerful mini pc delivers satisfying results in productivity, office work, and gaming. 35% Performance increase over AMD Ryzen 5 7430U/ Ryzen 7 5700U, 5600U, 5560U, 5500U.
- 16GB DDR4 RAM & 256GB PCIe SSD - Installed with DDR4 16GB RAM (1x16GB), the Nucbox M5 Ultra mini pc support expansion to 64GB RAM. Featured with 256GB M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 SSD, support dual slot expansion to 4TB SSD. (Upgrades not included)
- DUAL NIC LAN 2.5G RJ45 - Fast Network Speeds: Enjoy up to 2500Mbps data transmission speed without worrying about lagging. Ideal for working, gaming, and surfing the internet. Great for Untangle, Pfsense or as a server office PC.
- Mini Desktop Computer with 4K Triple Screen Display - Nucbox M5 Ultra integrates AMD Radeon Graphics 8 Cores 2000 MHz GPU to deliver powerful graphics processing power to easily handle the demands of complex design software, 4K@60Hz UHD video editing, and playback. It can connect to 3 display screens simultaneously.
- Fast Internet WiFi 6E + BT5.2 Connection - GMKtec Mini PC with WiFi-6E Wireless, have 2.5G/5G/6G triple band, more faster and lower latency. Bluetooth 5.2 allowing you more quickly to connect other wireless devices (headset, mouse, keyboard, etc.) Interface features 2*USB3.2 ports, 2*USB2.0 ports, 1*HDMI 2.0 port(4K@60Hz), 1*USB-C port(PD/DP/DATA), 1*DP Port, 1*Audio 3.5mm (HP&MIC), 1*DC Power Port.
Or let it run in the cloud
With StreamNeo, upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It loops uploaded videos from the cloud, so your computer and home connection do not need to stay on. It supports the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card required. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
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Best Value
- WHY CHOOSE G3 ULTRA MINI PC PENTIUM GOLD 7505 - Choose the Intel Pentium Gold 7505 for snappier everyday responsiveness: It delivers up to 30% faster single-core performance than the Ryzen 5 3500U, making office apps and web browsing feel noticeably quicker, while its Intel UHD Graphics (48 EUs) provides 2.4x the GPU performance of the N100 & N150's 24-EU graphics, ensuring smoother 4K streaming and light photo editing.
- 16GB RAM MEMORY & 512GB STORAGE - GMKtec Nucbox G3 Ultra mini computer is prebuilt with 16GB LPDDR4 RAM at 3200 MT/s, you will enjoy a speedier experience with Built-in 512GB M.2 SATA Hard Drive. Our mini desktop pc boots up in seconds, work on multiple browser tabs, software applications and quickly transfers files. There is a primary slot and secondary expansion storage. Primary slot is M.2 2280 PCIE and secondary slot is M.2 2280 SATA.
- RICH INTERFACE - Nucbox pentium mini computer is equipped with 3* USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, up to 10Gbps/S, 1*USB 2.0, HDMI(4K@60Hz)*2, 3.5mm Audio Jack. Supports WiFi 6, and Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 2.5GbE network connectivity, Bluetooth 5.2. This Mini PC supports multiple device connection and can be used with servers, monitoring equipment, office equipment, displays, projectors, televisions, etc.
- 4K DUAL SCREEN DISPLAY - Mini desktop computer is equipped with upgraded Intel Graphics(max 1000MHz), supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding, connect the pc with a projector as a home theatre, enjoy a variety of entertainments. Two HDMI 2.0 ports allows you to multi-task efficiently on two 4K@60Hz displays.
- UPGRADED COOLING FAN - The G3 Ultra has upgraded the cooling fan to reduce fan noise and thermals. We are using an upgraded thermal paste as well to help reduce heat on the CPU.
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