Recommended Free Tools
To stream your computer screen on YouTube, use an encoder—software on your computer or a hardware device—to capture your display and send it to YouTube Live. In YouTube Studio, open Create → Go Live, copy the stream URL and key into the encoder, start the encoder, wait for its preview in Live Control Room, then click Go live. YouTube’s guide to encoder streaming covers screen sharing and gameplay: YouTube encoder setup.
Before you choose software, check that you can stream
YouTube says a channel must be verified and must not have had a live-streaming restriction in the previous 90 days. The stated minimum age for livestreaming is 16. Check your current channel status and eligibility in YouTube Studio; interface details and eligibility can change. See YouTube’s live-streaming eligibility requirements.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Choose an encoder for your production
An encoder is the route YouTube identifies for sharing a computer screen. It can be computer software or a standalone hardware device. YouTube lists verified encoder options, but says those products are not made by YouTube; a listing is not a YouTube endorsement. Its official guidance does not compare applications’ performance or prices, so choose based on your workflow rather than assuming one is universally best. See YouTube’s encoder options and guidance.
Basic screen demonstration or lesson
Choose software that can capture the display and route the audio you need, such as application or system sound. For a narrated lesson, an external microphone may make speech clearer, but a separate microphone is not required just to share the screen.
#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
Face-camera overlay or a more involved production
If you want a webcam overlay, multiple inputs, or a more produced layout, check that the encoder supports the capture devices and audio routing you plan to use. YouTube’s guidance describes external hardware and multi-camera or microphone setups for advanced productions.
Professional event
Dedicated broadcast equipment may suit an event that needs a professional-grade hardware encoder. YouTube recommends professional-grade hardware encoders for higher-production-value events; the choice depends on the production requirements and is not a universal recommendation for ordinary screen sharing.
Rank #2
- [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.
- [Versatility and Broad Compatibility] Your Creative Hub: Connect your DSLR, camcorder, or action camera to a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux. Unlock a world of possibilities with real-time streaming to popular platforms like Twitch, Youtube, OBS, Zoom, Potplayer, and VLC, giving you the tools to share your content effortlessly.
- [Effortless Plug and Play] Simplicity Redefined: Say goodbye to complex installations. Our plug-and-play design eliminates the need for drivers or external power supplies. Seamlessly integrate high-definition acquisition into various scenarios, whether it's educational recordings, immersive gaming, precise medical imaging, captivating live streams, or professional broadcasting.
- [Seize Every Detail with Precision] Unleash your creativity and attention to detail with our video capture card. Capture every nuance, every color, and every moment with precision, thanks to the enhanced capabilities of our technology. Whether you're a content creator, a gamer, or a professional, our capture card empowers you to seize the finest elements and bring them to life in your recordings and live streams.
Compare options against your needs
- Can it capture your display and route the application, system, and microphone audio you require?
- Is it compatible with your operating system, computer, and capture hardware?
- Can you send the stream to YouTube easily and see stream-health information?
- Do you need overlays, multiple video inputs, or other production features?
- What is the total cost for the software or hardware you intend to use?
Set up the YouTube stream and connect the encoder
- Open Live Control Room. In YouTube Studio, select Create → Go Live. Create a stream or open one you have already set up. YouTube’s encoder setup instructions describe this workflow.
- Find the connection details. In Live Control Room, copy the stream URL and stream key. If your encoder offers a YouTube preset, select it; otherwise, enter the URL as the server or stream URL and paste the key into the encoder.
- Protect the stream key. Treat it like a password: do not display it in your screen capture, share it publicly, or include it in a recording. Anyone with access to the key may be able to send a feed to the stream.
- Configure capture and audio. Select the display or window to share and choose the audio sources needed for the broadcast. Check that private notifications, unrelated windows, and confidential information will not appear in the captured area.
- Start the encoder, then verify the preview. Start sending the stream from the encoder. Wait for the incoming preview in Live Control Room and check the image, audio, and stream-health indicators.
- Start and end the public broadcast deliberately. Once the preview is correct, click Go live in Live Control Room. When finished, click End Stream and stop the encoder’s outgoing stream.
Set resolution, frame rate, and bitrate to fit your connection
There is no single bitrate that suits every connection. YouTube advises that the stream’s total bitrate fit the available upload bandwidth and recommends leaving about 20% upload headroom. That is a practical recommendation, not a guarantee of reliability. Upload capacity can be lower than download capacity, and other people or devices using the network can reduce what is available to the stream. See YouTube’s live encoder settings and bitrates and its live-stream troubleshooting guidance.
- Run an upload speed test under conditions similar to when you expect to stream. Use upload capacity, not download speed, when judging the connection.
- Choose a resolution and frame rate your encoder and connection can sustain. If the connection is unstable, reduce quality settings rather than pushing bitrate beyond available upload capacity.
- Check the encoder’s total outgoing bitrate, including audio, against your usable upload bandwidth, leaving the recommended headroom.
- Test with the kind of movement and audio the broadcast will contain. A static desktop is not a reliable test for a fast-moving demonstration or gameplay.
- While live, monitor Live Control Room’s stream-health indicators and messages. Change settings if the feed is unstable, then verify the preview again.
Test before the audience arrives
Make a private or otherwise non-public test using the same encoder, capture source, audio devices, and network you plan to use. The precise visibility choices available depend on the stream setup in YouTube Studio.
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.
- Confirm that the intended screen or window is visible and readable.
- Listen for the application sound and narration you intend to include; check that audio is not missing or unintentionally duplicated.
- Look at the Live Control Room preview and stream-health status before clicking Go live.
- Check for notification banners, personal information, or the stream key in the captured area.
Common problems and fixes
The encoder is connected, but no preview appears
Check that the encoder is sending to the stream URL shown in Live Control Room and that the correct stream key is entered. Confirm that the encoder is actively sending, then allow time for the preview to appear. If needed, re-copy the current connection details and reconnect.
The stream drops frames or becomes unstable
Compare total stream bitrate with available upload capacity, accounting for YouTube’s recommended 20% headroom and other network use. Reduce bitrate, resolution, or frame rate if necessary, and test again under representative conditions.
Rank #4
- 【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.
The picture works but the audio is missing or wrong
Check which audio sources the encoder is capturing and whether the intended application, system, or microphone input is selected. Test each source in the preview before going public.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →The preview is correct, but the broadcast has not started
Starting the encoder sends its feed to YouTube; it does not replace the separate Go live action in Live Control Room. Once the preview is ready, click Go live.
Best Value
- 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
- Wide Compatibility: The Video Capture Card can work with video devices with RCA connector or S-Video connector, such as VHS, VCR, Hi8, camcorder, compatible with Windows and Mac OS. Support video formats like NTSC, PAL, and support brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation control
- 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
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is an always-on YouTube channel playing uploaded videos rather than a live view of your computer screen, StreamNeo is a separate option: it keeps a YouTube channel live from uploaded videos, not from a camera or screen capture. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo loops the videos from the cloud, so no computer, OBS, or home connection has to stay on. It supports any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, with no re-encode or quality tiers, and can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly service is $9.99 per month. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start your free first day.
Quick Recap
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.
