Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

You can use NGINX with the RTMP module as a relay: your encoder publishes to an RTMP application on the VPS, and NGINX forwards that feed to YouTube. For 720p H.264, YouTube’s current guidance recommends 8 Mbps, CBR, and a two-second keyframe interval. A 2 GB RAM plan is not a guarantee that a particular workload will fit; test the stream you intend to run, especially if you transcode.

How the relay works

The encoder sends a stream to the VPS over RTMP. NGINX RTMP listens for that connection under an application name, such as live, then relays the incoming stream to YouTube. The app segment in the publishing URL must match the configured application. The arut/nginx-rtmp-module project documents RTMP live streaming and push/pull relay support.

This is not automatically a transcoding setup. A pass-through relay forwards the incoming stream; transcoding changes video or audio and adds processing work. The module documentation describes FFmpeg-based transcoding, but no universal CPU or RAM requirement for a 720p encode on a 2 GB VPS is established here.

Set YouTube’s 720p encoder settings

YouTube’s current encoder guidance, accessed in 2026, gives the following H.264 targets. They are platform recommendations, not a promise that a particular encoder, VPS, or network will deliver clean video.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Getorli Mini PC Ryzen 5 3501U, 16GB RAM 512GB SSD, Triple Display, WiFi 6
  • 【AMD Ryzen 5 3501U Mini PC For Enhanced Daily Performance】Powered by AMD Ryzen 5 3501U processor with 4 cores and 8 threads, this mini pc provides responsive performance for office applications, home entertainment, online learning, media playback, and everyday computing.
  • 【16GB Memory & 512GB Storage With Expansion Options】Built with 16GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB PCIe 3.0 NVMe SSD, this mini computer provides more space for applications, files, videos, and daily content. Upgrade memory up to 32GB, expand SSD storage up to 2TB, or add a 2.5-inch HDD.
  • 【Flexible Small Desktop Computer For Home Applications】This small desktop computer is designed for home office, streaming, personal server setups, digital entertainment, and light gaming. The upgraded memory helps support smoother operation when using more applications.
  • 【Triple Display Setup & Flexible Connectivity】Dual HDMI ports and a full-function USB-C port support up to three displays. This micro pc offers convenient connectivity with WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, Gigabit Ethernet, and multiple USB ports.
  • 【Compact Mini Desktop With Space-Saving Design】Measuring only 5.0 × 4.4 × 1.6 inches, this small pc saves valuable desk space. VESA mount support allows installation behind compatible monitors, making it suitable for home offices and compact workspaces.
Setting 720p at 30 fps 720p at 60 fps
Video bitrate 3 Mbps minimum; 8 Mbps recommended 3 Mbps minimum; 8 Mbps recommended
Rate control CBR recommended CBR recommended
Keyframe interval 2 seconds recommended; no more than 4 seconds 2 seconds recommended; no more than 4 seconds
Audio AAC or MP3; 128 Kbps for stereo AAC or MP3; 128 Kbps for stereo

Configure these values in the software that publishes to your VPS, not in the NGINX relay block. Your available upload bandwidth must support the video and audio bitrate, with headroom for network variation. YouTube recommends RTMPS for a secure ingest connection.

Get YouTube’s RTMPS destination and key

  1. Open YouTube Live Control Room and create or select the livestream you intend to use.
  2. Reveal the stream settings and copy the RTMPS server URL and stream key. Use the actual endpoint YouTube provides; do not rely on an example URL for a live broadcast.
  3. Keep the stream key private. Anyone who obtains it may be able to publish to your channel’s stream. Do not put a real key in public configuration examples, screenshots, or source control.

YouTube describes RTMPS as RTMP over TLS. Its ingest requirements include the rtmps protocol, a valid YouTube server and application path, and port 443. See Google’s RTMPS ingestion requirements and YouTube’s RTMPS setup and troubleshooting guidance.

Rank #2
Sale
KAMRUI Essenx E2 Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 5 3500U(4 Cores, 8 Threads, Up to 3.7GHz), 16GB DDR4(Expandable) 256GB M.2 SSD Micro PC, HDMI+DP Dual 4K@60Hz Display Home/Business/Office Mini Desktop Computers
  • 【Ryzen 5 3500U Processor】KAMRUI Essenx E2 Mini PC is equipped with AMD Ryzen 5 3500U (4-cores/8-threads, up to 3.7GHz) with integrated Radeon Vega 8 Graphics(1200MHz, 8 Core). The 3500U CPU operates at a base frequency of 2.1 GHz and a Boost frequency of 3.7 GHz. This DDR supports upgradable up to 32GB, SSD supports up to 2TB.(NOT INCLUED), KAMRUI E2 3500U Mini PC is ideal for light office work and home entertainment. KAMRUI E2 3500U is more than 35% more powerful and smoother in operation than the Intel N150, 33% faster than Intel N95, 28% performance boost over Intel i3-10110U, and 42% stronger processing power than AMD Ryzen 3 3200U.
  • 【16GB DDR4 & 256GB SSD】The KAMRUI E2 mini computers is equipped with 16GB DDR4(Expandable up to 32GB) for faster multitasking and smooth application switching. 256GB M.2 SSD ensures fast startup times,fast file transfers and plenty of storage space,eliminating slow loading times and ensuring fast responsiveness.Storage space can RAM supports up to 32 GB, SSD supports up to 2TB (Not included)make file storage easier.
  • 【4K Dual Display & USB 3.2 Type-A Port】KAMRUI E2 3500U mini desktop pc is equipped with an HDMI 2.0+DP 1.4 interfaces for faster transmission, Support Dual 4K@60Hz Display, E2 mini desktop computers is ideal for visual home entertainment, home office, conference rooms, etc. USB3.2 Gen1 Type-A Port×2 with a transfer speed of up to 5Gbps (10 times faster than USB 2.0) for efficient data transfer. The RJ45 1000M Gigabit Ethernet Port ensures a stable network connection.
  • 【WiFi+Bluetooth stable connection】The Kamrui E2 micro pc have reliable and stable wireless connection, open websites in seconds, watch movies without buffering and download files smoothly, connect your monitor from WiFi or Ethernet, use a wireless keyboard and mouse through bluetooth, which will be powerful workstation for you.
  • 【Versatile Ports】This KAMRUI E2 Small pc is equipped with HDMI 2.0×1(4K@60Hz)、DP1.4×1(4K@60Hz)、Gigabit Ethernet Port (RJ45, 10/100/1000Mbps) ×1、USB3.2 Gen1 Type-A Port×2(5Gbps)、USB2.0 Type-A Port×2、3.5mm Audio Jack ×1、DC In ×1、Power Button ×1

Install an NGINX RTMP module that matches your NGINX build

Do not assume the NGINX package on your VPS includes RTMP support. The arut module project describes building the module alongside NGINX source. F5’s documented dynamic RTMP module is specifically for NGINX Plus, not a general installation instruction for every community NGINX package. Package availability and installation commands vary by operating system, NGINX edition, and package source. Follow the documentation for the exact build you have.

If you install a dynamic module, use the matching module binary and NGINX version, load it in the main configuration context as directed by that package’s documentation, then validate the configuration with nginx -t before reloading. F5’s RTMP module documentation describes its NGINX Plus-specific approach; consult your distribution or module provider for community-build instructions.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
GMKtec G3S Mini PC Computers Intel N95 Processor (Turbo 3.4GHz)
  • 12th INTEL ALDER LAKE N95 PROCESSOR - The G3S mini pc uses the 12th Intel N95 CPU 4 Core 4 Threads 6MB cache, burst speed up to 3.4GHz. Compared with (N100/N5105/N5100/N5095), the N95 offers an overall performance improvement of 36%. Ideal for routine tasks, office work and home entertainment,which is more convenient than traditional desktop pc
  • 8GB RAM MEMORY & 256GB SSD STORAGE - GMKtec Nucbox G3S mini pc is prebuilt with 8GB DDR4 RAM, you will enjoy a speedier experience with Built-in 256GB M.2 2242 SSD Hard Drive. Our mini desktop pc boots up in seconds, work on multiple browser tabs, software applications and quickly transfers files
  • RICH INTERFACE - Nucbox G3 Plus mini computer is equipped with USB 3.2, up to 10Gbps/S, HDMI(4K@60Hz)×2, 3.5mm Audio Jack. Supports WiFi 5, and Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 1000MbE network connectivity, Bluetooth 5.0. This Mini PC supports multiple device connection and can be used with servers, monitoring equipment, office equipment, displays, projectors, televisions, etc
  • 4K DUAL SCREEN DISPLAY - Mini desktop computer is equipped with upgraded Intel Graphics(max 1000MHz), supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding, connect the pc with a projector as a home theatre, enjoy a variety of entertainments. Two HDMI 2.0 ports allows you to multi-task efficiently on two 4K@60Hz displays
  • WiFi5 & BT5.0 - Built-in Bluetooth 5.0 enables you to connect multiple wireless devices such as mice, keyboard, monitoring equipment, printer and monitor. High-speed wireless connection technology, reliable and efficient transmission speed, providing a faster internet experience for browsing and streaming. Small pc supports Wake On LAN, PXE Boot, RTC Wake and Auto Power On, ideal to use as a server

Configure the receiving application and relay

The following is an illustrative structure, not a validated drop-in configuration. It shows the listener and application relationship; it deliberately does not contain a YouTube URL or key. Relay directive syntax can differ with the installed module and build. Check that build’s documentation and use the current RTMPS URL from Live Control Room.

rtmp {
    server {
        listen 1935;
        chunk_size 4000;

        application live {
            live on;
            # Configure the relay using the syntax supported by
            # your installed module and YouTube's current RTMPS endpoint.
        }
    }
}
  1. Add the RTMP configuration in the context and file layout used by your NGINX installation. The rtmp block belongs at the top configuration level, alongside the usual HTTP configuration, rather than inside an http block.
  2. Configure the application name. In this example it is live; the publisher URL’s app component must also be live.
  3. Set up forwarding from that application to YouTube using the relay syntax supported by your installed module. Use YouTube’s current RTMPS endpoint and the private stream key. Protect the configuration file from unauthorized access if it contains credentials.
  4. Allow inbound TCP port 1935 in the VPS firewall and any provider-level firewall or security group, unless you deliberately configure a different listener port. The VPS must also be able to make the outbound RTMPS connection to YouTube on port 443.
  5. Run nginx -t. If it reports an error, correct the configuration before proceeding. On success, reload NGINX using the service command appropriate for your OS and package.

The module project’s documented publisher URL shape is rtmp://host/app[/name]. With the example application above, a publisher would use the VPS hostname or IP and the live application segment; an optional stream name depends on the configuration. Keep your local ingest address distinct from YouTube’s outbound destination.

Rank #4
Mini PC Stick Fanless, Micro Desktop Computer Win 10 Celeron J3455, 4GB RAM 64GB eMMC, Gigabit Ethernet, 4K@60Hz Output, WiFi BT 5.0 for Industrial IOT, Business, Office & Digital Signage
  • 【Fanless Design for Uninterrupted Stability】Perfect for noise-sensitive environments and 24/7 operation. This mini PC delivers completely silent performance with an efficient cooling system that prevents overheating. It reliably runs office software and HD video without slowdowns, making it ideal for focused offices, home theaters, and demanding industrial IoT applications
  • 【Ultra-Portable & Ready for Any Screen】Extremely compact and lightweight, this is a full Windows 10/Ubuntu computer that fits in your pocket. It's the ultimate plug-and-play solution for business presentations on a projector, digital signage in classrooms, or entertainment on your home TV. Achieve true "work from anywhere" flexibility with one device for all scenarios
  • 【Stunning UHD 600 Graphics】Experience vibrant, fluid visuals with 4K @ 60Hz output. Powered by Intel UHD 600 Graphics, this mini PC is your perfect home entertainment center for streaming movies, attending online classes, or hosting video conferences. It turns any display into a sharp, high-definition visual experience
  • 【Versatile Ports for Easy Expansion】Tackle multiple tasks with ease using our comprehensive selection of ports. Connect storage, keyboards, monitors, and more simultaneously with 2x USB 3.0 ports, a Gigabit LAN port, and a TF card reader. With convenient USB-C charging, it becomes the effortless control center for your office or home setup
  • 【Pre-Installed & Ready to Go】Get started immediately with the genuine Windows 10 Pro operating system pre-installed. Paired with 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 64GB eMMC storage, it's fully equipped for everyday office tasks and HD content right out of the box. This hassle-free setup is perfect for businesses, schools, and users who want a simple, ready-to-run computer

Publish and verify the stream

  1. Start the encoder with 1280×720 output, the intended frame rate, H.264 video, CBR, the recommended bitrate and keyframe interval, and AAC or MP3 audio.
  2. Set its server or destination to the VPS RTMP address and its stream path to the configured application, for example live. Do not enter YouTube’s key in the publisher if NGINX is responsible for forwarding it; configure the key only where the relay requires it.
  3. Begin streaming, then check NGINX logs and YouTube Live Control Room. Confirm that YouTube receives the feed and that the preview shows the expected picture and sound before going live to viewers.
  4. Watch CPU, memory, network throughput, and encoder or relay errors during the intended stream duration. A short successful connection does not establish that a VPS can sustain a longer or heavier workload.

Pass-through relay or transcoding?

Approach When it fits Resource implication
Pass-through relay The incoming stream already matches the output settings YouTube should receive. It avoids the additional encode work of changing video, though total VPS capacity still depends on the workload and plan.
Transcoding You need to change resolution, frame rate, codec, or bitrate before forwarding. FFmpeg-based transcoding is documented by the module project, but its CPU and RAM needs for your settings on a 2 GB VPS are not established. Measure on the actual VPS rather than assuming capacity.

Prefer pass-through when the encoder can produce the desired YouTube settings and there is no transformation requirement. If transcoding is necessary, test the intended codec, resolution, frame rate, and duration while monitoring for dropped frames, CPU saturation, and memory pressure.

Common problems and fixes

  • NGINX rejects the configuration or does not recognize rtmp. The installed build may lack the module, the module may not be loaded, or the configuration may be in the wrong context. Confirm module/build compatibility, follow that package’s instructions, and rerun nginx -t.
  • The publisher cannot connect to the VPS. Check the NGINX listener, the VPS firewall, provider firewall rules, hostname or IP, and TCP port 1935. Also verify that the publisher’s application segment matches the configured application name.
  • YouTube does not receive the forwarded feed. Recopy the RTMPS URL and key from Live Control Room, check the relay syntax for the installed module, and confirm outbound connectivity to YouTube on port 443. YouTube’s RTMPS help page covers URL troubleshooting.
  • The stream connects but video stutters or drops frames. Check the publisher’s upload stability and bitrate, then inspect VPS CPU, memory, and network use. If transcoding is enabled, compare behavior with a pass-through feed where possible; encoding load is additional work.
  • The video or audio settings are rejected or look wrong. Verify that the publishing encoder uses H.264, an appropriate bitrate and CBR, a keyframe interval of two seconds or less than four seconds apart, and a supported audio codec. Check both the encoder output and YouTube’s ingest preview.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Copyright and YouTube channel rules

A technically valid relay does not grant rights to the material it carries. Use video, music, and other content you own or are licensed to stream, and review YouTube’s current live-streaming and copyright rules before broadcasting. A 24/7 loop also does not by itself establish eligibility for monetization; YouTube’s channel policies and review apply independently of the delivery method.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Sale
GMKtec Mini PC, G11 Plus AMD Ryzen 5 3500U16GB DDR4 RAM 512GB SSD Computer
  • MINI PC COMPUTER OFFICE BUSINESS PERSONAL - GMKtec Nucbox G11 PLUS Series is equipped with the Ryzen 5 3500U, a 64-bit quad-core mid-range performance x86 mobile microprocessor. This processor is based on AMD's Zen+ microarchitecture and is fabricated on a 12 nm process. The 3500U operates at a base frequency of 2.1 GHz with a TDP of 15 W and a Boost frequency of 3.7 GHz. This APU supports up to 32 GB of dual-channel DDR4-2400 memory and incorporates Radeon Vega 8 Graphics operating at up to 1.2 GHz. 20% Multi-core Performance increase over previous Ryzen 3 models such as 4300U. 35% performance increase over the Intel N-series N95/N97/N150.
  • AMD RADEON GRAPHICS 1.2GHz - this powerful mini computer with 480% Faster Integrated Graphics: The built-in AMD Radeon Graphics GPU delivers a staggering 480% higher 3DMark Time Spy performance than the Intel N150's UHD graphics. Powered by dedicated shader cores clocked at 1.2GHz, it dramatically outperforms the N150 for intensive visual tasks and surpasses the 4300U's iGPU by 21% in raw computational throughput. With support for triple independent 4K displays, H.265/HEVC encoding, and modern APIs like DirectX 12 and Vulkan, this GPU turns the R2514 into a true multimedia powerhouse for professional edge computing, industrial HMI, or high-end digital signage station.
  • DUAL CHANNEL 16GB RAM MEMORY - The R2514 platform supports dual-channel DDR4 memory (2×8GB; Total 16GB), effectively doubling the data pathway between RAM and the processor compared to a single 16GB stick used in N150 or 4300U systems. With dual-channel, the GPU experiences zero memory bottlenecks, resulting in significantly higher frame rates (up to 30% improvement in gaming scenarios), smoother 4K video playback, and faster application responsiveness—especially in professional workloads like CAD viewing, real-time data visualization, and multitasking across multiple displays.
  • DUAL NIC 2.5GBE ETHERNET - The G11 mini PC with dual 2.5GbE ports, you can transform it into a high-speed, all-in-one networking hub. This setup enables it to function as a professional-grade firewall and router (using software like pfSense/OPNsense) for unbeatable network security and ad-blocking, a blazing-fast Network Attached Storage (NAS) server, and a compact server for a home lab running virtual machines and containers (with Proxmox). It can also be used to create a dedicated, isolated network for IoT devices and security cameras or as a compact VPN server for secure remote access.
  • UNLEASH RAW PERFORMANCE MODE 35W - Dominate demanding tasks with the AMD Ryzen Embedded R2514 processor. When switched to Performance Mode in the BIOS (press "Esc" key repeatedly during boot, save then exit), this mini PC delivers superior multi-core processing power, significantly outperforming Intel N-series chips in CPU-intensive applications, multitasking, and creative workloads.

Or let it run in the cloud

If your goal is an always-on YouTube stream from uploaded video rather than learning and maintaining a VPS relay, StreamNeo is a cloud service that loops uploaded recordings or playlists. Upload a video, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay powered on at home; it keeps the video at the quality uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $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.