For 1080p at 60 frames per second, YouTube recommends 17 Mbps for H.264 live streaming or 12 Mbps for AV1 or H.265/HEVC. The listed minimums are 6 Mbps for H.264 and 4 Mbps for AV1 or H.265. Use the figure for your ingestion codec, and configure a constant bitrate (CBR) with a 2-second keyframe interval. These are live-stream settings, not YouTube’s separate recommendations for uploading a finished video.
Recommended YouTube bitrate for 1080p60 live streaming
YouTube’s live encoder guidance sets different bitrates by codec. At 1080p60, select the recommendation that matches the codec your encoder sends to YouTube:
| Ingestion codec | Recommended bitrate | Listed minimum |
|---|---|---|
| H.264 | 17 Mbps | 6 Mbps |
| AV1 or H.265/HEVC | 12 Mbps | 4 Mbps |
The minimum is not the recommended target. If you have a codec choice, check that your encoder and YouTube ingest configuration support it; the figures alone do not establish that one codec will look better than another in every setup. See YouTube’s live encoder settings for its full, current guidance.
Other encoder settings that matter
Bitrate mode and keyframes
- Rate control: Use constant bitrate (CBR).
- Keyframe interval: Set 2 seconds. YouTube says not to exceed 4 seconds.
Video format and advanced settings
- Use progressive scan and square pixels.
- YouTube’s advanced guidance lists two B-frames, one reference frame, and CABAC.
- For SDR video, use Rec. 709 color and 8-bit depth.
- YouTube supports RTMP/RTMPS transport and lists H.264, H.265, and AV1 as video codecs. It recommends RTMPS, the secure extension to RTMP.
These are encoder guidance, not a promise that every streaming app exposes every setting under the same label. If your software does not offer a particular advanced control, consult its documentation rather than substituting an unrelated setting.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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.
Audio
- For stereo audio, YouTube lists 44.1 kHz sample rate and 128 kbps.
- For 5.1 audio, it lists 48 kHz and 384 kbps. Over RTMP/RTMPS, 5.1 is supported only with AAC.
Make sure your connection and stream are ready
- Check your upload speed. YouTube recommends testing the upload connection and choosing a stream quality your connection can reliably sustain. The 17 Mbps and 12 Mbps figures above are video bitrate recommendations; YouTube’s inspected guide does not specify a universal upload-speed margin to add on top.
- Run a representative test. Before the real broadcast, test with audio and movement similar to what you plan to stream. A static screen or silent test may not reveal issues that appear during the actual program.
- Monitor stream health. During the event, watch YouTube’s stream-health indicators and messages so you can respond to ingest problems while the stream is live.
If your encoder supports RTMPS, YouTube recommends it. Its guidance says HLS may be considered when an encoder cannot provide the relevant capabilities over RTMP. That is a contextual transport choice, not a reason to change the 1080p60 SDR bitrate recommendation above. For HDR, YouTube recommends H.265 over RTMP(S) and says AV1 is not supported for HDR; those HDR notes do not change the SDR settings in this guide.
Live-stream bitrate is not upload bitrate
A live broadcast and an uploaded video use different workflows and encoding guidance. YouTube’s separate upload-encoding page lists 12 Mbps for 1080p high-frame-rate SDR uploads. That is a file-upload recommendation, not the H.264 live-ingestion recommendation of 17 Mbps at 1080p60. The upload guidance describes file encoding such as MP4, H.264, and variable bitrate, while the live guide specifies CBR. See YouTube’s upload encoding settings when preparing a finished video file.
Rank #2
- 【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
Keep a pre-recorded YouTube stream running without a home PC
For a do-it-yourself live broadcast, use an encoder that supports the settings above, connect it to YouTube with your stream key, and keep the encoder and internet connection running for the duration. For a pre-recorded video that needs to repeat continuously, StreamNeo is a cloud option: upload the video, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It runs the loop from the cloud, so your computer does not have to stay on. StreamNeo is for YouTube streams of uploaded videos, not camera broadcasts. Details are at StreamNeo.
Or let it run in the cloud
Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; the video streams as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot. StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, one free day per account. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start at StreamNeo’s free trial.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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
Rank #4
- 【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.
Rank #3
![VIXLW 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Cam Link Card, HDMI to USB 2.0 Game Audio Adapter, Record Capture Device for Streaming, Teaching, Gaming, Live Broadcasting, Video Conference [Windows]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41e6jd88Y4L._SL160_.jpg)
- 【4K VIDEO CAPTURE CARD】Made with upgraded chip, captures 4K@60Hz video input at full speed, no lag, no delay, capture card also supports 1920×1080@30Hz highest image quality output, capture video to USB through HDMI, you can Directly save to computer and mobile phone; suitable for high-definition video live broadcast, video capture, online conference, video streaming, video course; equipped with high-definition USB cable.
- 【HDMI real-time screen sharing】The HDMI interface is made of nano-metal material, so that the video can reach ultra-low latency. The audio and video capture card can capture video and audio at the same time, and store the video signal into the computer and smartphone, and support OBS post-video. Editor, this is an excellent solution for online meetings and live broadcasts, economical and fast, 4K HDMI Capture Card is widely used in live broadcast, conference, photography, medicine, daily office.
- 【Plug and Play】4K video capture card has built-in drivers, no need to install complicated programs, no external power supply, plug and play, very convenient, just plug into your computer, you can use it, the shell is made of aluminum alloy seamlessly , small size, very convenient to carry, suitable for capturing interesting details in life, can be used for indoor and outdoor live broadcast, and the color of the picture is more delicate.
- 【Wide Compatibility】The video capture card adopts advanced chips, intelligent identification equipment, and is widely compatible with electronic equipment, which can easily capture wonderful moments and comes with a USB cable. It supports third-party video capture software such as OBS, Win, MacOs, Android, etc. It can also perform video capture and online live broadcast at the same time, store and share videos at the same time, and easily realize video splicing, which is very convenient.
- 【24 hours local technical support】We have a professional technical team for more than ten years, serving you 24 hours a day. You are welcome to contact us if you have any questions.
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