Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →For most people streaming to Kick from a desktop, start with OBS Studio: it is free, open source, flexible, and Kick provides setup instructions for it. Choose Streamlabs Desktop if you prefer an integrated workflow with built-in alerts, widgets, and overlays. Kick also lists XSplit and MELD as supported, but the available official guidance does not establish a feature or price ranking for them.
Which Kick streaming software fits your setup?
| Your priority | Good starting point | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible scenes and production controls | OBS Studio | The OBS Project lists scene and source mixing, transitions, audio filters, Studio Mode, hotkeys, and plugins/scripts. It describes OBS as free and open source. OBS Project. |
| Built-in creator tools in one studio | Streamlabs Desktop | Streamlabs describes Desktop as an all-in-one studio and offers a Kick workflow with alerts, widgets, overlays, and highlights. Streamlabs. |
| Another supported application | XSplit or MELD | Kick lists both among supported streaming applications; the cited Kick guidance does not provide enough detail to compare their features or costs. Kick setup guide. |
There is no evidence here for a universal performance winner between OBS and Streamlabs. Consider how much control you want, whether integrated creator tools matter, whether your computer meets the software’s current requirements, and whether your network and encoder can handle your chosen settings.
Check your computer before installing
Requirements can change, so confirm them on the vendors’ current download pages. The Streamlabs quick-start guide dated May 20, 2026 lists Windows 11 or macOS 12, 8 GB of RAM, and 10 GB of storage as minimums. Streamlabs Desktop quick-start guide.
The OBS download page lists Windows 10/11, macOS 13 or newer, and Linux; it reports version 32.2.2. The captured page identifies the release as August 14 but does not display a year, so check the page for the current release before downloading. OBS downloads.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
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#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Set up OBS or Streamlabs for Kick
OBS Studio
- In your Kick dashboard, locate your stream server URL and stream key. Treat the key like a password: anyone who has it can broadcast to your channel.
- Open OBS and select Settings > Stream.
- Set the service to Custom…, then enter the server URL and stream key from Kick.
- Configure the encoder settings to stay within Kick’s published limits below, then select Start Streaming in OBS.
- After you stop the stream, Kick says the VOD is saved to your channel page.
Streamlabs Desktop
- Open the Stream tab in Streamlabs Desktop and connect your Kick account using its Kick workflow.
- Confirm your encoder settings meet Kick’s current limits, then start streaming in the application.
- When you stop, Kick says the VOD is saved to your channel page.
Kick’s setup instructions for OBS and Streamlabs are in its desktop streaming guide.
Use settings Kick accepts
Kick’s troubleshooting guide dated May 6, 2026 publishes the following limits. They are platform ceilings, not recommended targets for every computer or internet connection. Start below the ceilings if your hardware or connection cannot sustain them reliably.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Setting | Kick’s published limit or supported option |
|---|---|
| Encoder | x264 or H.264; H.265 is not supported. |
| Rate control | CBR only; VBR is not supported. |
| Video bitrate | Maximum 8,000 kbps. |
| Resolution | Maximum 1920×1080. |
| Frame rate | Maximum 60 fps. |
| Audio | Stereo, maximum 48 kHz. |
On a Mac, Kick says to use x264 to enable CBR. The precise stable settings depend on your encoder, computer, and connection; Kick advises choosing settings suited to your setup. See its setup instructions and connection troubleshooting guide.
Fix common connection problems
- The stream will not connect: Update OBS or Streamlabs, verify the server details and current stream key in Kick, and check whether your computer or network is blocking the connection.
- The stream key was reset: A reset invalidates the old key. Copy the new key from Kick into the encoder before trying again.
- Your video settings are rejected: Check for VBR or H.265, both unsupported by Kick. Switch to CBR and x264 or H.264, then ensure the bitrate, resolution, frame rate, and audio are within the published limits.
- Someone else may have your key: Reset it in Kick and replace the saved value in your streaming application. Anyone holding the key can broadcast on your channel.
Kick’s troubleshooting guidance is at OBS/Streamlabs not connecting to Kick.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Or let it run in the cloud
OBS and Streamlabs are desktop production tools. For a different use case—keeping a YouTube channel live around the clock from uploaded videos—StreamNeo runs the loop in the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on. It is for YouTube streams of uploaded videos, not live camera broadcasting or Kick.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
- Any quality you upload, up to 4K 60fps, streams as made at one flat price per slot, with no re-encode or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free, with no card required; one free day per account.
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Start your free StreamNeo day.
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.
