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To record with Streamlabs Desktop, set your recording options in Settings > Output, add the video and audio sources you want, then click Record in the editor. Click Record again to stop, and open the saved file from the completion notification to check it.
Set up a recording
- Choose recording during first-time setup. If Streamlabs asks what you plan to do, select the option for recording videos. You can record without starting a live broadcast.
- Add the right capture source. In the editor, add Display Capture to record the whole monitor or Window Capture to record one application. For Window Capture, open the target application and keep it unminimized so it appears in the selection list.
- Choose audio and optional camera sources. Add a microphone for narration and an audio-output source for computer sound, where supported. A built-in microphone may be enough; an external or USB microphone is optional. Add a webcam only if you want it in the recording. Avoid adding the same audio source twice, which can cause echo.
- Set the recording destination and options. Open Settings > Output and choose the destination folder, filename preferences, quality, and format.
- Make a short test recording. Confirm that the picture, microphone, and computer sound you need are present and at appropriate levels. Some applications may block capture or require permissions, so check the recording itself rather than assuming the preview guarantees a usable file.
- Record the full session. Click Record in the editor to start. Click it again when you are done. Streamlabs displays a completion notification after saving; use it to inspect or open the recording.
Choose resolution, frame rate, and encoder
Recording quality depends on both the settings and the computer’s available resources. Streamlabs’ recommendations are starting points, not settings that are optimal on every system. Make a short test at your intended settings, check for stutter or dropped frames, and reduce output resolution or quality if the computer struggles.
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Resolution and frame rate
- For gameplay, Streamlabs recommends matching the base canvas to your monitor resolution. Choose an output resolution that meets your quality needs; lowering it can reduce the workload.
- Consider 60 FPS for fast action and 30 FPS for more static content. Higher frame rates can demand more from the computer and create larger files.
- If you downscale, Streamlabs recommends Lanczos as a quality-oriented filter, with additional CPU cost. If performance suffers, try a less demanding configuration.
Encoder and quality controls
- x264 uses CPU-based software encoding. NVENC is a hardware encoding option for NVIDIA graphics cards.
- Streamlabs’ tutorial suggests CQP as a starting rate-control method, or CRF when using x264; it also gives a CQ level starting point of 17 and the Max Quality preset where performance allows.
- Treat those suggestions as values to test, not guarantees. If the recording stutters or the system is overloaded, lower quality settings or output resolution and test again.
These recommendations come from Streamlabs’ official recording tutorial, last updated October 2, 2025. Menu labels and options can change, so check the controls in your installed version.
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Record separate microphone and desktop audio tracks
Separate tracks make it easier to adjust narration and computer sound independently during editing. Streamlabs’ documented workflow supports up to six separate audio tracks.
#1 Best Overall
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FIFINE AmpliGame AM8 USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone for Gaming Streaming
- [Natural Audio Clarity] Operated with frequency response of 50Hz-16KHz, the podcasting XLR mic delivers balanced audio range, likely to resonate with your audience. Directional cardioid dynamic microphone corded will not exaggerate your voice, while rejects unwanted off-axis noise for vocal originality and intelligibility during your PS5 gaming streaming video recording. (Tips: Keep the top of end-addressing XLR dynamic microphone AM8 facing audio source, and suggested recording range is 2 to 6 in.)
- [XLR Connection Upgrade-Ability] To use XLR connection, connect the podcast microphone to an audio interface (or mixer) using a separate XLR cable (NOT Included) . Well-connected and smooth operation improves audio flexibility to make you explore various types of music recording singing. The streaming mic isolates the pristine and accurate sound from ambient noise with greater no interference and fidelity. (RGB and function key on mic are INACTIVE when using XLR connection.)
- [USB Connection with Handy Mute] Skip the hassle of setting something up and plug the cable to play the dynamic USB microphone directly, which suits for beginner creators or daily podcast. You can quickly control the gamer mic with tap-to-mute that is independent of computer/Macbook programs to keep privacy when live streaming. LED mute reminder helps you get rid of forgetting to cancel the mute. (RGB and function key are only available for USB connection, but NOT for XLR connection)
- [Soothing Controllable RGB] RGB ring on the desktop gaming microphone for PC, with 3 modes and more than 10 light colors collection, matches your PC gears accessories for gaming synergy even in dim room. You can control the RGB key button of the dynamic microphone USB directly for game color scheme gaming or live streaming. Configured memory function, the streaming microphone RGB no need to repeated selections after turnning off and brings itself alive when power on. (Only available for USB connection)
- [More Function Keys] Computer microphone with headphones jack upgrades your rhythm game experience and gets feedback whether the real-time voice your audience hear as expected. Get the desired level via monitoring volume control when gaming recording. Smooth mic gain knob on the PC microphone gaming has some resistance to the point, easily for audio attenuation or boost presence to less post-production audio. (Only available for USB connection)
- Open Settings > Output and change Output Mode to Advanced.
- Select Recording and choose the audio tracks to include.
- In the advanced audio mixer, assign each input—such as the microphone and desktop audio—to the intended track.
- Choose MP4 or MKV for the recording. In Streamlabs’ guide, the default FLV format does not support multiple audio tracks.
- Make a test recording and check each track in your editing software before recording an important session.
If you record and stream at the same time, the live broadcast sends one selected audio track. Check that it contains the complete mix you want viewers to hear; a multitrack recording setup does not automatically make the live mix correct.
Capture computer audio on a Mac
In the setup described by Streamlabs’ Mac guide, macOS does not let Streamlabs Desktop directly capture audio from other applications. The documented workaround routes system sound through a virtual audio device such as BlackHole, selected as a Mic/Auxiliary device. The exact setup depends on your macOS version and audio-routing software; consult Streamlabs’ current guide and verify the routing with a short test.
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Logitech Creators Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer Condenser Mic with Blue VO!CE effects, 4 Pickup Patterns, Plug and Play - Blackout
- Custom three-capsule array: This professional USB mic produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube videos, Twitch game streaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, music recording and more
- Blue VO!CE software: Elevate your streamings and recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples
- Four pickup patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics, for vocals, instruments and podcasts
- Onboard audio controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the audio recording and streaming process
- Positionable design: Pivot the mic in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality thanks to the adjustable desktop stand and track your voice in real time with no-latency monitoring
Fix common recording problems
- The target window is missing: Open the application and make sure it is not minimized, then revisit the Window Capture selection. If the application still does not capture, check its permissions or restrictions and test a different capture method if appropriate.
- The video is present but sound is missing: Check that the intended microphone or audio-output source is added and active. On Mac, account for the system-audio routing limitation described above. Record a short test and listen to the saved file.
- You hear echo or doubled sound: Check for duplicate audio sources and remove the extra instance.
- The recording stutters or the computer struggles: Reduce output resolution or quality, or use a lower frame rate. Test changes before starting a long session.
- No file appears after recording: Check free disk space and confirm that your account can write to the selected destination folder.
- A Windows error prevents recording: Streamlabs’ troubleshooting guide lists updating graphics drivers, installing Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable 2017, or running the application as administrator for certain errors. These are possible fixes, not universal remedies; use them only when they match the error you are seeing.
The troubleshooting suggestions are from Streamlabs documentation dated April 25, 2025. Windows-specific fixes do not apply to macOS.
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If your goal is to keep a YouTube channel live with uploaded videos rather than save a local recording, StreamNeo is a different option: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo loops uploaded videos from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. It streams the video as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; it can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, and UPI is available in India. Monthly: $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo or its plans, and check copyright safety before streaming. To try it, start your free first day with StreamNeo.
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ZealSound Podcast Microphone for PC, Noise Cancellation USB Mic with Gain, Volume Adjustment & Mute Button, Monitoring & Echo, for YouTube, TikTok, Podcasting, Streaming, iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac
- Studio-Quality Sound for Clear Podcast Recording – The K66 USB podcast microphone delivers studio-quality, broadcast-level audio using a high-performance condenser capsule and cardioid pickup pattern that focuses on your voice while reducing unwanted background noise. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it features a wide 40Hz–18kHz frequency response and a 46kHz sampling rate to reproduce rich lows, smooth mids, and clear highs for natural, detailed vocals. With –45dB ±3dB sensitivity, it captures balanced sound without distortion during expressive speaking. Ideal for podcasting, voice-over, online classes, meetings, and professional content creation.
- Intelligent Noise Reduction Mode for Cleaner Podcast Audio – This podcast microphone features an advanced Noise Reduction Mode designed for clearer, more focused voice recording in real-world environments. Press and hold the mute button to enable noise reduction (blue indicator). In this mode, the microphone helps reduce keyboard clicks, PC fan noise, air conditioner hum, and background chatter. Default Mode maintains a warm, natural vocal tone for quiet spaces. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it allows creators to identify the active mode instantly and adapt as needed, ensuring clear audio for podcasting, gaming, streaming, online classes, meetings, and recording.
- True Plug-and-Play USB Microphone with Wide Device Compatibility – Engineered for effortless plug-and-play use, the K66 USB microphone requires no drivers, apps, or software installation. Simply connect and start recording on Windows PC, Mac, laptops, PS4, PS5, and tablets. Included USB-C and Lightning adapters ensure seamless compatibility with iPhone, iPad, and modern USB-C phones and devices, making it easy to switch between desktop and mobile recording. Ideal for creators working across multiple platforms, this microphone delivers consistent, high-quality audio for YouTube, TikTok, Twitch, Zoom, Discord, OBS Studio, Streamlabs, podcasting, livestreaming, and professional voice recording.
- Real-Time Zero-Latency Monitoring with Adjustable Volume Control – This podcast microphone features real-time, zero-latency monitoring through a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing you to hear exactly what’s being recorded without delay. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it includes a dedicated monitoring volume control that lets you adjust headphone listening levels independently for accurate and comfortable audio monitoring. Real-time feedback helps identify distortion, background noise, or uneven volume before it affects your final recording, making this podcast microphone ideal for podcasting, streaming, online teaching, voice-over work, and professional content creation.
- Precision Audio Adjustment Knobs for Full Sound Control – This podcast microphone gives creators hands-on control with dedicated knobs for microphone volume, monitoring volume, and echo adjustment. Fine-tune mic gain to maintain clear, balanced vocal output, adjust headphone monitoring levels independently for comfortable listening, and add or reduce echo to enhance depth and presence. Designed as a reliable PC microphone, these intuitive physical controls allow fast, on-the-fly adjustments without software, helping identify distortion, background noise, or level inconsistencies instantly. Ideal for podcasting, streaming, ASMR, voice-overs, singing, and professional multi-platform recording.
Rank #4
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FIFINE AmpliGame A6V USB Gaming Microphone, Condenser RGB Mic for Streaming
- [Award Honored, Full Audio] FIFINE AmpliGame A6V, a gaming mic, has earned the globally recognized iF Design Award. The PC microphone with 192kHz sampling rate delivers naturally detailed audio, making your team sound like they're right beside you. Cardioid polar pattern and 70dB SNR offer dual support for pure voice, sensitive to the front vocal and reducing background noise interference. The streaming mic helps you win more easily.
- [Quick Mute Button, Handy Gain Knob] Immediately silence the USB microphone with a tap, preventing emotional outbursts to maintain a positive team atmosphere. RGB off when muted to indicate status and prevent streaming accidents. Mic volume control conveniently located on the condenser microphone is intuitive to use. You can speak at a comfortable level without shouting or whispering during game.
- [Gradient RGB] Bicolored RGB cycles through 7 gradient colors automatically. Vivid lighting on the FIFINE microphone for PC enhances your glowing rig for a carnival atmosphere, immersing you in the intense game arena. The computer microphone for desktop with fixed light modes achieves a personalized experience without visual clutter, randomly matching game characters for surprise color combos.
- [Plug and Play] The PS5 microphone is easy to install and compatible with PS4, desktop, laptop and mainstream operating systems like Windows/Mac OS, without extra software. Quickly start game chat on Discord, Team and Zoom, or stream on OBS, Streamlabs and Twitch platforms. The gaming microphone PC coming with 6.6ft-long detachable USB cable ensures no interruptions or connectivity issues, even if your computer host is under the desk.
- [Useful Accessories] The podcast microphone features durable construction. Anti-vibration shock mount with four rubber bands absorbs tremor from keyboard taps and mouse clicks. The detachable pop filter reduces plosives caused by excited speech during gaming. The stable tripod stand with rubber feet allows for optimal recording positioning via an adjustable thumbscrew, whether you're leaning back or in.
Rank #3
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FIFINE K669B USB Microphone, Condenser Recording Mic for Vocals, Meeting
- [Convenient Setup] Plug and play recording USB microphone for PC, with 5.9-Foot USB cable included for computer PC laptop, is connected directly to USB-A port for recording music, computer singing or podcast. The office condenser microphone for computer is easy to use and install. (NOT compatible with Xbox and Phones)
- [Durable Metal Design] Solid sturdy metal construction design, the computer microphone for Zoom meetings with stable tripod stand is convenient when you are doing voice overs or livestreams on YouTube. Durable material extends the service life of the voice-over microphone.
- [Mic Volume Knob] Gaming condenser USB mic compatible for PS4 with additional volume knob itself has a louder or quieter adjustment and is more sensitive. Your voice would be heard well enough through the zoom microphone USB when gaming, skyping or voice recording. Also, you can adjust your volume to zero and protect your privacy.
- [Widely Use] USB-powered design, the condenser microphone for recording no need the 48v Phantom power supply, works well with Cortana, Discord, voice chat and voice recognition. The podcast microphone for Mac, with USB-B to USB-A/C cable, is compatible with desktop, laptop or PS4/PS5, which meets most of your daily recording needs.
- [Clear Output Voice] Cardioid condenser microphone for PC captures your voice properly, producing clear smooth and crisp sound. Great computer recording mic for gamers/streamers/youtubers focus on the main source and reduces background noise. The streaming microphone does the job well for broadcast ,OBS and teamspeak.
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