In OBS, set Base (Canvas) Resolution for the space where you compose the scene, then set Output (Scaled) Resolution for the dimensions you want viewers or your recording to receive. For clips with different aspect ratios, choose whether to show the whole image with unused space, crop to fill, or design the scene around each clip. Avoid stretching clips to fill the canvas: it distorts their proportions.
Canvas resolution and output resolution do different jobs
Base (Canvas) Resolution is the composition space in which you arrange OBS sources. Output (Scaled) Resolution is the size OBS produces for streaming or recording. When output is smaller than the canvas, OBS scales the composed scene using the selected downscale filter. You do not have to resize every source manually to change the delivered dimensions. See the OBS Studio Overview Guide.
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Changing the base resolution can move or resize the scene’s sources relative to the new canvas, so check their layout afterward. Changing the output resolution does not require that source realignment. Choose the canvas for composition first, rather than treating both settings as interchangeable output-size controls.
Choose dimensions for the scene and destination
Decide what dimensions you need for both the destination and any recording you intend to keep. OBS documentation uses 1920×1080 and 1280×720 as 16:9 examples; 16:9 is not mandatory if the platform or project calls for another aspect ratio. A canvas usually matches your display resolution, or the game’s resolution when capturing a game, but the right choice depends on the scene you are building.
#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
- In OBS, open Settings → Video.
- Set Base (Canvas) Resolution to the dimensions you want to compose within.
- Set Output (Scaled) Resolution to the dimensions you want the stream or recording to use.
- Choose a downscale filter if the output is smaller than the canvas. The filter affects scaling quality; assess it with your actual material rather than assuming one choice suits every source.
OBS’s Aspect Ratio Guide discusses bicubic scaling when footage appears soft and Point or Area for sharp-looking retro or pixel-art material. The Scaling/Aspect Ratio Filter documentation describes source-level scale filtering and aspect-ratio options; its default scale filtering is Bicubic.
Add a playlist using VLC Video
For playlist playback, add a VLC Video source and install VLC if it is not available in OBS. The built-in Media Source is for an individual media file; VLC Video is the source type that supports a list of files and includes playlist loop and shuffle options. This distinction explains why a playlist control may not appear when you have added Media Source. Follow the OBS Media Sources guidance.
Rank #2
- 【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.
- 【Compatible with Multiple Systems】suitable for Windows and Mac OS. High speed USB 3.0 technology and superior low latency technology makes it easier for you to transmit live streaming to Twitch, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, OBS, Potplayer and VLC.
- 【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.
- In the scene’s Sources panel, add VLC Video.
- Add the files to its playlist and arrange them in the desired order.
- Set playlist looping or shuffle according to how you want playback to proceed.
- Check the source’s visibility and the scene arrangement so the playlist appears when intended.
OBS documentation lists common formats for Media Source, including .mp4, .ts, .mov, .flv, .mkv, .avi, .gif and .webm video, and .mp3, .aac, .ogg and .wav audio. VLC libraries provide extended media support, but actual playback still depends on the installed software and available decoding support; the format list is not a guarantee that every file will play in every setup.
Decide how each aspect ratio should fit
A single playlist may contain landscape, portrait, square or other-shaped clips. There is no one fit choice that both preserves every edge and fills a canvas whose shape differs from the clip. Pick the treatment that suits the material and repeat or adjust it clip by clip.
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.
| Approach | Shows the whole clip? | Fills the canvas? | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fit or contain | Yes | Not always | Leaves bars or unused canvas around some clips. |
| Crop or pan-and-scan | No | Yes | Some side or top/bottom content falls outside the frame. |
| Stretch to fill | Yes | Yes | Warps proportions and distorts the image; generally avoid it. |
| Keep the source ratio and design around it | Yes | The overall scene can be filled | Use background art, overlays, a camera, or other scene elements in the remaining space. |
To adjust a clip, select its source in the preview or Sources panel and use the transform controls or Edit Transform to position, size or crop it. Start with a proportional fit when showing the complete image matters. Enlarge and crop when filling the frame matters more than retaining every edge. If you crop, inspect the actual clip for titles, faces or other important details near its boundaries. OBS’s Sources Guide explains source transforms and crop controls; its Aspect Ratio Guide explains the consequences of fitting, cropping and stretching.
Check the playlist at the delivered size
- Preview representative clips in the scene, including the widest and tallest aspect ratios in the playlist.
- Check that the framing is intentional: no important content is accidentally cropped, and any unused space looks acceptable.
- Make a short local recording or inspect a preview at the intended output dimensions. Confirm the delivered size, not just the composition visible on the canvas.
- Before a first live stream, test the scenes and settings. OBS’s Overview Guide recommends testing before going live.
Troubleshoot stutter or encoding overload
Change the least disruptive setting first. OBS’s Encoding Performance Troubleshooting guidance says lowering output resolution can reduce encoder load, and reducing frame rate cuts rendering and encoding work.
Rank #4
- High-Quality Video Capture, 4K HDMI Capture Card Ready: Capture smooth and vibrant video with this 4K HDMI capture card, engineered for gamers and content creators who demand crisp 1080P 60FPS video quality. Whether you're streaming to Twitch or recording gameplay for YouTube, your footage will look professional and detailed
- Plug-and-Play USB Capture Card, No Drivers Needed: Designed as a USB capture card for streaming, this device works instantly out of the box, just plug into your PC or laptop and start capturing. Fully compatible with popular software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit, making setup quick and stress-free for beginners and pros alike
- Universal Compatibility PS5, Xbox, Switch & More: Stream or record gameplay from virtually any HDMI-enabled device including Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X, DSLR cameras, and PCs. The video capture card for gaming supports seamless passthrough so you can play without lag while your audience watches every frame in real time
- Low-Latency Performance for Smooth Streaming: This capture card for streaming minimizes delay between gameplay and broadcast, so you get reliable, low-latency capture that works well for competitive gaming, live broadcasts, and podcast sessions. Suitable for those building their channel with high-quality, engaging content
- Compact & Portable Design for Content Creators: Lightweight and portable, this USB 3.0 capture card works well for creators who travel or switch gaming setups often. Throw it in your bag and stream or record wherever you are, at home, events, LAN parties, streaming or studio sessions
- Output stutters or encoding is overloaded: try a lower Output (Scaled) Resolution, then consider a lower frame rate. Check the result before making further changes.
- Sources shift after a resolution change: if you changed Base (Canvas) Resolution, realign or resize the affected sources. Changing output resolution alone does not have this layout effect.
- High-resolution clips strain performance even when displayed small: scaling a source down does not necessarily eliminate the resources needed to decode it. Where appropriate, use lower-resolution media.
- You are considering a smaller canvas as a quick performance fix: OBS generally advises against this unless resources are severely constrained, because it complicates capture and asset management and requires source readjustment. For a substantial canvas change, consider a separate scene collection.
- You cannot find playlist controls: check that you added VLC Video rather than the single-file Media Source, and that VLC is installed.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a 24/7 YouTube channel playing uploaded videos, StreamNeo is an alternative to leaving OBS and a computer running at home. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live; StreamNeo loops the uploaded video from the cloud. It does not go live from a camera.
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- Nothing has to stay on at home; the stream runs from the cloud.
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The monthly option is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo for details, or start the free first day.
Quick Recap
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