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Yes—but mainly by changing the bandwidth a nonstop stream can use, not a known YouTube ingest fee. YouTube’s current encoder guide recommends lower contribution bitrates for H.265 (HEVC) than H.264 at several matched resolutions and frame rates. If the lower rate preserves acceptable quality for your content, it reduces upload demand and data sent. Whether that saves money depends on your internet plan, encoder and power costs. YouTube’s reviewed guidance does not establish a codec-specific charge for sending a live stream to YouTube.
Where H.264 and H.265 can change the bill
Separate four possible costs instead of treating “streaming cost” as one fee:
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- YouTube ingest: YouTube says it transcodes incoming live streams into formats for viewers. Its cited live-stream guidance does not state an ingest price or a different price for H.264 versus H.265. The reviewed documentation therefore does not establish a codec-specific YouTube charge.
- Internet service and data: A lower upload bitrate uses less sustained upstream capacity and sends fewer bits. It creates a monetary saving only if that affects a metered-data bill, plan limit, or the need to buy more upload capacity.
- Encoding hardware and electricity: A local computer or hardware encoder has equipment and power costs. The codec label alone cannot determine them: implementation, workload, hardware and electricity tariff matter. The available figures do not quantify these costs.
- Separately billed cloud encoding: A service that encodes a live feed can charge for that service. Google Cloud Live Stream API publishes rates by codec and configuration at its pricing page; that is a separate product, not a price for sending a creator’s encoder feed directly to YouTube Live.
YouTube’s recommended bitrates
YouTube lists H.264, H.265 (HEVC) and AV1 as supported video codecs, and says bitrate recommendations depend on codec, resolution and frame rate. It recommends constant bitrate encoding, up to 60 fps, and a two-second keyframe interval (not over four seconds). The following selected recommendations are from YouTube’s live encoder settings guide:
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| Resolution and frame rate | H.264 recommended video bitrate | H.265/AV1 recommended video bitrate |
|---|---|---|
| 1080p30 | 14 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| 1080p60 | 17 Mbps | 12 Mbps |
| 1440p30 | 21 Mbps | 15 Mbps |
| 1440p60 | 34 Mbps | 24 Mbps |
| 2160p30 (4K) | 42 Mbps | 30 Mbps |
| 2160p60 (4K) | 50 Mbps | 35 Mbps |
The second column groups H.265 and AV1 together; it is not an H.265-only efficiency test. These are YouTube recommendations, not proof that every H.265 stream will look identical to H.264 at the listed lower rate. YouTube’s HLS ingestion guide notes that lower-end suggested HEVC rates can save bandwidth, especially for 4K, but you still need to check the picture quality your encoder produces for your actual content.
#1 Best Overall
H.265 H.264 4K HDMI to IP Network Video Encoder, 1080P HD Video Audio Encoder Supports RTSP RTMPS UDP HLS SRT HTTP WebRTC ICECAST, for IPTV, Live Streaming, YouTube, Facebook, OBS, ONVIF NVR, etc.
- ⭐【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265 /H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 4K UHD (3840x2160) video input and output, with a maximum frame rate of 30fps at 4K resolution and up to 120fps at 2K and lower resolutions, delivering a smooth and detailed visual experience. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI ultra HD video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and 4K ultra HD content transmission.
- ⭐【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), ONVIF, FLV, WebRTC, TRTC, ICECAST, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- ⭐【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- ⭐【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- ⭐【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
How much data does a 24/7 stream use?
For a steady bitrate, estimate decimal megabytes as bitrate in megabits per second × seconds streamed ÷ 8. The table below applies that calculation to a continuous 30-day month (2,592,000 seconds). It excludes audio, protocol overhead, downtime and bitrate variation. These are calculations from YouTube’s recommended video bitrates above, not data figures published by YouTube.
| Resolution and frame rate | H.264 recommendation | Estimated H.264 data per 30 days | H.265/AV1 recommendation | Estimated H.265/AV1 data per 30 days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1080p30 | 14 Mbps | About 4.54 TB | 10 Mbps | About 3.24 TB |
| 1080p60 | 17 Mbps | About 5.51 TB | 12 Mbps | About 3.89 TB |
| 1440p30 | 21 Mbps | About 6.80 TB | 15 Mbps | About 4.86 TB |
| 1440p60 | 34 Mbps | About 11.02 TB | 24 Mbps | About 7.78 TB |
| 2160p30 (4K) | 42 Mbps | About 13.61 TB | 30 Mbps | About 9.72 TB |
| 2160p60 (4K) | 50 Mbps | About 16.20 TB | 35 Mbps | About 11.34 TB |
Your provider’s data-metering rules determine what is billable. A fixed-price unlimited plan may have no direct charge reduction, although lower bitrate can still ease demands on a constrained upload connection. YouTube’s streaming tips say total outgoing bitrate must fit available upload bandwidth and recommend leaving 20% headroom; see YouTube’s streaming tips.
Rank #2
![J-Tech Digital HDMI Encoder, 4K 60Hz Input 1080P 60Hz Output H.264 H.265 IPTV Network Video Encoder, Supports UDP, HTTP, RTSP, RTMP, RTMPS, SRT, HLS, FLV, ONVIF Protocols [JTECH-ENCH4]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41RYme6n5QL._SL160_.jpg)
J-Tech Digital HDMI Encoder, 4K 60Hz Input 1080P 60Hz Output H.264 H.265 IPTV Network Video Encoder, Supports UDP, HTTP, RTSP, RTMP, RTMPS, SRT, HLS, FLV, ONVIF Protocols [JTECH-ENCH4]
- ✅ UItra-HD HDMI Video Input: This HDMI H.264 H.265 IPTV encoder supports up to 4K@60Hz HDMI input and 1080P@60Hz output. Allows for 1 main stream and 3 substreams to be ran simultaneously. Please note that the substreams will feature a lower resolution than the main stream.
- ✅ H.264 / H.265 Encoding: HDMI signal is converted to H.264 or H.265, and transmitted through standard TCP/IP (internet / LAN). Optimized for low-latency, high-bitrate audio/video transmission, and high-quality streaming.
- ✅ Multi-Protocol Support: Broad compatibility with RTMP/RTMPS, HLS, FLV, TS, MP4, RTSP, UDP, SRT, TRTC and more. Compatible with VLC Player. Just enter “http://[Encoder’s IP address]/0.ts” and play a video using VLC player.
- ✅ Audio/Video Control & Customization: Add text or logos (OSD) to your video for branded output. Adjust bitrate, FPS, and IP settings remotely via the web GUI. Fine-tune your visuals with flip, rotate, crop, contrast, and brightness controls, plus MPEG1 Audio Layer 2 and CBR/VBR (32 Kbps–32 Mbps) rate management.
- ✅ Free Lifetime Technical Support – All J-Tech Digital products include a one-year manufacturer replacement warranty and free lifetime technical support from our customer support team located in Stafford, TX. Support is available from 9AM – 6PM CST, Mon – Fri. Contact information available on our seller page.
Check protocol and workflow before choosing HEVC
Codec support depends on the ingest protocol and encoder, not just the general codec list. YouTube’s protocol comparison lists H.264 for RTMP and H.264 plus H.265/HEVC for HLS. It describes HLS as better for 4K because it supports HEVC. Confirm that your encoder supports the codec with the protocol and settings you plan to use.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteSpecial offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
If your workflow requires HDR live streaming, YouTube’s HDR guidance specifies H.265/HEVC and HLS for the described configuration. In that case HEVC is a capability requirement, not merely a possible bandwidth optimization. Do not assume the protocol or encoder supports HDR in every configuration.
Rank #3
UNISHEEN 1080P60 HDMI Video Encoder, H.265/H.264 Live Streaming Encoder, HDMI to RTSP/RTMP/SRT/HLS/WebRTC IPTV Encoder for YouTube Facebook Live, Browser Setup, No PC Software Needed
- 【Hardware H.265/H.264 Encoding at 1080P60】Dedicated hardware encoder delivers broadcast-quality 1080P60 streams with H.265/H.264 compression. Reduces bandwidth usage by up to 50% compared to legacy H.264-only solutions, while maintaining crisp, crystal-clear video output.
- 【Broad Protocol Support for IP Distribution】 Supports SRT, RTMP(S), RTSP, UDP, HTTP, HLS, WebRTC, TRTC, Icecast and SHOUTcast — integrate seamlessly with CDNs, surveillance NVRs, IPTV systems and browser-based monitoring dashboards. One device replaces multiple single-purpose streaming boxes.
- 【Browser-Based Setup in Minutes】 Set up in minutes through any browser — no software, drivers or OS compatibility issues. DHCP is enabled by default to prevent IP address conflicts on your network. Note: basic networking knowledge (IP address, RTSP/RTMP configuration) is recommended for advanced streaming setups.
- 【Compact Design with Flexible Deployment】Palm-sized form factor (approx. 90×54×29mm) fits easily behind monitors, on shelves, or in equipment racks. Low power consumption ensures reliable 24/7 operation for live events, remote monitoring, and digital signage.
- 【Professional Audio & OSD Overlay + 1-Year Warranty】 Supports HDMI embedded audio plus external 3.5mm input. Built-in OSD generator adds scrolling text, logos, or timestamps directly to the video stream — ideal for branding, event info, or security labeling. Backed by a 1-year warranty and 24/7 online technical support.
Decide whether the bitrate reduction is worth it
- Confirm the ingest combination. Check YouTube’s protocol guidance and your encoder’s supported codec, resolution, frame rate and protocol.
- Test the actual picture. Compare H.264 and H.265 at the relevant YouTube-recommended rates using the scenes you intend to stream. Do not assume the grouped H.265/AV1 recommendation guarantees equivalent results for your content.
- Check sustained upload capacity. Include audio and other outgoing traffic, and retain YouTube’s recommended 20% upload headroom. A lower video rate can help if upstream capacity is the constraint.
- Apply your internet plan’s terms. Estimate monthly data using the stream’s actual sustained total bitrate, then check whether your provider meters it, caps it or charges for additional usage.
- Account for encoding costs separately. Consider whether your hardware can encode the chosen format reliably for continuous operation and use your own electricity tariff and equipment details to estimate cost. If outsourcing encoding, use the selected service’s current configuration-specific pricing rather than treating it as a YouTube fee.
Keep a YouTube stream running without leaving a computer on
If the cost question is really about operating a nonstop pre-recorded YouTube stream, bandwidth is only one part of the setup. StreamNeo runs uploaded videos and playlists from the cloud: upload your recording, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Its per-slot price is the same across qualities, with uploaded video streamed as made up to 4K 60fps; the first day is free with no card. It is YouTube-only and plays uploaded video rather than broadcasting a camera.
With StreamNeo, nothing has to stay on at home; any quality up to 4K 60fps is included at one price per slot; it automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream; and the first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start the free day with StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
Best Value
URayCoder HD HEVC H.265 MPEG4 H.264 4K HDMI to Video Streaming IPTV Encoder for HDMI to RTSP RTMP HTTP UDP HLS SRT Facebook YouTube Live Streaming Server
- 【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265 /H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 4K UHD (3840x2160) video input and output, with a maximum frame rate of 30fps at 4K resolution and up to 120fps at 2K and lower resolutions, delivering a smooth and detailed visual experience. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI ultra HD video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and 4K ultra HD content transmission.
- 【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), FLV, WebRTC, TRTC, ICECAST, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- 【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- 【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- 【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
Rank #4
HEVC MPEG4 H.265 H.264 HDMI to IP Network Video Encoder, 1080P HD Digital Video Audio Encoder Hardware Supports RTSP RTMPS UDP HLS SRT, for IPTV, Live Streaming, YouTube, Facebook, OBS, NVR, etc.
- ⭐【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265/H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 1920x1080 resolution input and output, achieving 60fps high-definition presentation with realistic and delicate color reproduction and lossless detail. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI high-definition video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and high-definition content transmission.
- ⭐【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), ONVIF, FLV, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- ⭐【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- ⭐【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- ⭐【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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