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To show a speedrun timer on stream, run a timer such as LiveSplit, then add its window to your OBS scene with a Window Capture source. Set up the game and category splits first, position the timer so it does not cover important gameplay, and check a short recording before going live. A browser overlay is another option if your timer supports one.
What you need
- A computer running your streaming software and a speedrun timer.
- A game and category, with splits or a compatible split file.
- For the simplest setup, OBS and a timer window you can capture.
- If you are streaming console gameplay through a PC, a video path that brings the gameplay into that PC; a capture card may be part of that setup.
The timer and the stream scene are separate pieces: the timer tracks the run, while OBS includes the timer window or a compatible overlay in the video it sends to your stream. LiveSplit’s project overview describes features including configurable sizing, game-time support, Speedrun.com integration, and auto-splitting when a supported game splitter is available: LiveSplit on GitHub.
Set up LiveSplit and your splits
- Install LiveSplit. Start with the official LiveSplit project page. Its download page recommends reviewing the FAQ and introduction video before using the timer.
- Choose the game and category. Create splits for the checkpoints you intend to time, or load a compatible split file. Follow the category’s rules and timing method; do not assume that every game has an auto-splitter or uses the same timing standard.
- Set the timer’s display size. Adjust the layout so the timer will be legible at the size it will appear in your stream. LiveSplit supports configurable sizing.
- Check game-time and auto-split support, if needed. These capabilities depend on the game and available support. If no compatible auto-splitter is available, use the timing approach appropriate to the category rather than expecting the timer to detect every split automatically.
Add the timer to OBS with Window Capture
- Open OBS and select the scene that will show your gameplay.
- In the scene’s Sources list, choose the option to add a Window Capture source. Create a new source if prompted.
- In that source’s properties, select the LiveSplit window. The exact labels and available choices can vary by OBS version and operating system.
- Confirm that the timer appears in the OBS preview. Drag it into a clear corner or other unobtrusive area, then resize it so the digits and splits are readable without hiding important game information.
- Record a short test and review the recording. Check that the timer is visible, positioned correctly, and readable in the finished video before relying on it in a live run.
Window Capture is a commonly described beginner method in a Speedrun.com community setup discussion. The discussion is community guidance, not an official, version-specific OBS walkthrough; if your OBS interface differs, use the source properties available in your installed version.
When to use a browser-source overlay
A browser-source overlay can suit a custom or browser-based timer display, but it requires a compatible timer feed and may take additional configuration. OpenSpeedRun documents an optional local WebSocket overlay server intended for an OBS browser source; it is off by default and must be enabled in the project’s configuration. See its overlay documentation and confirm that the timer and overlay you choose work together before setting them up.
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This is a distinct alternative to capturing a timer window, not a setting that automatically applies to every timer. If you only need a basic visible timer, Window Capture is the simpler place to start.
Streaming console gameplay through a PC
A timer does not itself require a capture card. The card may be relevant when console gameplay needs to enter a PC running OBS: once the gameplay is available in the OBS scene, add the timer as another source. The exact video route depends on your console, PC, and streaming setup; a community discussion of console capture is not a tested hardware recommendation. Check compatibility and video needs for your equipment before buying anything.
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Check the setup before a run
- Timer missing from the scene: Confirm the Window Capture source is enabled and points to the open timer window. Reopen its properties and select the correct window if needed.
- Timer is hard to read: Increase its display size or adjust the scene placement. Review a recording rather than judging only from the editor preview.
- Timer covers gameplay: Move it to a less important area of the frame, while keeping it visible to viewers.
- Splits do not advance automatically: Auto-splitting is conditional on game support. Check whether a compatible splitter exists and whether your category permits the intended timing method; otherwise, use the appropriate manual approach.
- Browser overlay is blank: Check that the selected timer supports the overlay and that any required local server or configuration is enabled. OpenSpeedRun’s documented WebSocket server is off by default.
- Console gameplay is not visible in OBS: Check the console-to-PC video route and device compatibility. The timer source cannot supply gameplay video.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the stream you want is a YouTube channel playing uploaded video continuously—not a live speedrun from your camera—StreamNeo is a separate option. It keeps an uploaded recording or playlist live from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. Upload your video, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. The video streams as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot; StreamNeo also automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. Its first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. StreamNeo is for uploaded videos on YouTube, not a replacement for a speedrun timer or a camera-based live run. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start the free first day.
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