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OBS Studio is the simplest free way to record a live stream on a computer. Add the screen, window, capture device, or other source showing the stream, choose where and how to save it, make a short test, then select Start Recording. If you are saving your own YouTube broadcast, YouTube may also archive it automatically, but a local recording is a useful backup.
Choose a recording method
| Method | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| OBS Studio recording | A local file, a backup, or control over the saved recording | Uses computer resources and local storage; initial setup takes some work. |
| Platform archive | Keeping a copy of your own broadcast when the platform offers archiving | Availability and retention depend on platform features. YouTube says streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured. |
| External storage | When the computer’s existing disk lacks room or you want a separate archive location | Optional; recording to a separate drive may involve a purchase. |
Record a stream with OBS Studio
OBS Studio is free, open-source software for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Download it from the official OBS Project website. OBS’s help portal says the software has no watermark or usage limitations and is distributed under GPLv2. Version numbers and available downloads can change, so check the official download page for the current release.
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- Add the source. In OBS, add or select the source that contains the stream. Depending on your setup, this may be a display, application window, capture device, or another source. The right choice depends on your operating system and whether the video is playing locally or in a browser.
- Set the recording destination and output. Open Settings → Output and choose a recording path, format, and quality that suit your available disk space and any editing you plan to do. OBS interface options can vary by release. Twitch’s recording guidance lists formats including FLV, MP4, MOV, MKV, TS, and M3U8 for the OBS interface it describes.
- Make a short test recording. Check that the picture and system audio are captured, and include microphone audio if you need it. Play the test file in a media player before relying on the setup for an important event.
- Record and verify. Select Start Recording in OBS, confirm that recording remains active during the stream, and stop it when finished. Then locate and play the saved file.
Choose quality with storage and editing in mind
Higher recording quality produces larger files, so check available disk space before a long session. In OBS, its Help guidance recommends trying Simple output mode and recording presets; a hardware encoder is an option when available. The computer’s resources, chosen settings, and intended editing workflow all affect which setting is practical. If the current disk is short on room, an external drive is optional.
Use YouTube’s archive for your own broadcasts
YouTube can automatically archive a live stream that is less than 12 hours long. YouTube warns that streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured at all, and recommends keeping a local archive as a backup. In YouTube Studio, manage your own stream archives under Content → Live; there you can adjust an archive’s visibility or delete it.
#1 Best Overall
- 【1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card】 This HDMI game capture card is based on USB3.0 high speed transmission port, input resolution up to 4K@30HZ, output resolution up to 2K@30Hz or 1920×1080@60Hz. Type c and USB interface can meet most of the devices in daily life. Easily meet the online capture, real-time recording, online meetings, live gaming and other functions, so you have a better visual enjoyment. Note: For capture use only; requires capture software to function and is not intended for direct screen casting to a monitor or TV
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】 HDMI capture card is made of good quality aluminum alloy with strong heat dissipation, allowing you to enjoy ultra low latency while live gaming or video recording or live streaming, avoiding blue screens and lag. This HDMI to USBC capture card supports easy recording of good quality audio or HD video and transferring it to your computer or streaming platform, allowing you to record 60 fps HD video directly on your hard drive and real-time preview
- 【Plug and Play, Easy to Carry】 This HDMI 1080P video capture card does not require any additional drivers or external power supply, just plug and play for fast capture. The capture card is small and lightweight, so you can put it in your bag for emergencies, making it very portable for outdoor live streaming. It's also a great way to share content in game recording, video conference, video recorder and online teaching
- 【Wide Compatibility USB Capture Card】 Easily streams to Facebook, Youtube or Twitch. With the connection, this HDMI to USB C/3.0 video capture devices can be working on several Operating Systems and various software: Windows 7/ 8/ 10, Mac OS or above, Linux, Android, Laptop, Xbox One, PS3/PS4/PS5, Camera, DVDs, Set Top Box, Webcame, DSLR, Switch/Switch 2, TV BOX, HDTV, Potplayer/VLC, ZOOM, OBS Studio etc.
- 【Package Content & Note】 1x HD Audio Capture Card , 1x USB 3.0 to USB C Adapter (A-side 3.0, B-side 2.0), 1x user manual. Please note that you need to restart the OBS Studio software after the audio setup is complete, otherwise it will result in no sound output. When using an adapter, if the device is recognized as USB 2.0, try using the other side with the USB-C port. Simply flip the capture card and reconnect it to be recognized as USB 3.0
A YouTube archive is a platform copy of your own broadcast, not a substitute for a local recording when you need a backup or direct control of the file.
Do you need a capture card?
Not for every recording. For a typical computer-screen or webcam setup, OBS can capture an appropriate display, window, or camera source without a separate capture card. Additional hardware is relevant when your particular source setup requires it. YouTube’s streaming overview describes encoder workflows for gameplay, overlays, microphones, and cameras, as well as streaming by mobile, webcam, encoder, or console.
Rank #2
- AV TO USB Converter: Capture videos and audios from VHS, VCR, Hi8, DV tapes to a PC, with the help of our USB Video Converter. Save room while digitizing your favorite old memories
- Quality Capture Card: Our USB Video Capture Card converting anolog RCA composite input into HD 720P USB output and capturing audio without any sound card. Advanced signal processing technology provides you with great precision, colors, resolutions, and details.
- Plug and Play: Automatically install the driver once you hook up this RCA to USB Converter to a PC. No external power is needed. User-friendly and easy to operate
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- Note: The Video Converter is used with acquisition software. We recommend OBS Studio or PotPlayer for Windows, and QuickTime Player for Mac. They can be downloaded for free online. Please operate according to the steps in User Manual or contact us if you have any questions
Recording someone else’s stream: rights matter
This guide covers how to make a recording; it does not establish a blanket right to record, download, redistribute, or publish another person’s stream. Rules can depend on the rights involved, the platform’s terms, and the law where you are. YouTube says live content must comply with its Community Guidelines and Terms of Service. Check the applicable rules and obtain permission where needed before recording or reusing someone else’s content.
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Troubleshoot a missing or unusable recording
- No file appears: Recheck the recording path in Settings → Output, confirm the destination drive is available, and look for the file in that folder after stopping the recording.
- Video or audio is missing: Confirm that OBS has the intended source selected and that the relevant system-audio or microphone source is included. Make a brief test and play it back before the full session.
- The recording stops or the computer struggles: Check available storage and reduce the recording quality or use an OBS recording preset that is more suitable for the computer. A hardware encoder may help if one is available.
- The YouTube archive is missing: Check whether the broadcast exceeded 12 hours; YouTube says streams longer than that may not be captured. A local OBS recording provides a separate copy when it is running successfully.
Or let it run in the cloud
OBS records a stream onto the computer running it. If instead you want uploaded videos to keep a YouTube channel live around the clock, StreamNeo runs the loop in the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on. Each slot streams your upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; StreamNeo does not re-encode it or use quality tiers. It can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, once per account. Monthly: $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【1080P HD High Quality】Capture resolution up to 1080p for video source and it is ideal for all HDMI devices such as PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, DVDs, DSLR, Camera, Security Camera and set top box. Note: Video input supports 4K30/60Hz and 1080p120/144Hz. Does not support 4K120Hz/144Hz. Output supports up to 2K30Hz.
- 【Plug and Play】No driver or external power supply required, true PnP. Once plugged in, the device is identified automatically as a webcam. Detect input and adjust output automatically. Won't occupy CPU, optional audio capture. No freeze with correct setting.
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- 【HDMI LOOP-OUT】Based on the high-speed USB 3.0 technology, it can capture one single channel HD HDMI video signal. There is no delay when you are playing game live.
- 【Support Mic-in for Commentary】Rybozen capture card has microphone input and you can use it to add external commentary when playing a game. Please note: it only accepts 3.5mm TRS standard microphone headset.
Rank #4
- [Enhanced 4K-1080P Video Capture Experience] Capture the Magic: Elevate your video recordings to new heights with our upgraded anti-static 1080P Video Capture Card. Immerse yourself in stunning visuals, supporting HDMI input at 4K 60FPS and USB output for capturing in 1080P, complete with rich stereo sound. Enjoy crystal-clear video recordings, dynamic gaming live streams, and professional conference broadcasts. Note: HDMI resolution: Max input can be 3840×2160@30Hz / Video output resolution: Max output can be 1920×1080@30Hz
- [Seamless Real-Time Preview] Stay in the Moment: Our advanced ultra-low latency technology ensures seamless real-time transmission of video streams. Experience instant, lag-free previews, allowing you to capture every detail precisely. Effortlessly record video directly to your hard disk, all without compromising on quality or introducing any delays.
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Rank #3
- 【4K HDMI Input, 2K@30Hz Recording】Powered by a true USB 3.0 high-speed interface, the capture card supports up to 4K@30Hz HDMI input and records at 2K@30Hz or 1080P@60Hz. Perfect for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need crisp, smooth video for live streaming, gameplay recording, or online meetings.
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】Built with a premium aluminum alloy shell and advanced chipset for stable heat dissipation, ensuring ultra-low latency transmission. Capture high-quality video and dual-channel audio in real time—no lag, no frame drop—ideal for Twitch, YouTube, or OBS streaming.
- 【Easy Plug and Play, Compact & Portable】No driver or external power required—just plug and play via USB 3.0 or Type-C connection to your Windows or macOS computer. Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for outdoor streaming, live shows, or mobile recording setups.
- 【Wide Compatibility & Multi-Device Support】Compatible with Windows 7 8 10 11, macOS, Linux,Android and supports most popular software such as OBS, Zoom, VLC, Twitch Studio, and more. Works seamlessly with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, DSLR cameras, TV boxes, and other HDMI-output devices for streaming to YouTube, Twitch, etc.
- 【What You Get】Includes: HDMI Capture Card, USB 3.0 to USB-C Adapter, User Manual. Tips: Make sure your tablet’s OTG function is enabled before connecting. Test your HDMI device with a monitor first to confirm video and audio output, then connect to the Video Capture Card for recording.
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