Wondering how to improve Twitch stream quality?
Most gamers are.
Truth is, though, there are actually a few things you can do, right now, to drastically improve the quality of your Twitch stream… in under 5 minutes.
Let’s jump in:
1. Use a quality webcam
Using a quality webcam is key for streaming high-quality video. Make sure to choose one that produces clear images and has good low-light performance.
2. Get a quality microphone
Using a quality microphone is another way to ensure high-quality video. Make sure to choose one that has good noise canceling technology and produces high-quality sound.
3. Optimize your internet connection
If you have a slow or inconsistent internet connection, it will affect the quality of your stream. Make sure to optimize your internet connection before streaming.
4. Double check everything
Before streaming, check how your internet is performing. If you’re experiencing lag or buffering, it will likely show up in your stream.
Check everything has been set-up correctly across all of your devices.
I mean, the last thing you want is for your stream to look how it normally does for 10 minutes, then have it switch to your phone’s camera because you didn’t connect the inputs correctly.
How to Improve Stream Quality with Streamlabs or OBS
There are many free broadcasting programs out there, but not all of them allow for the same level of quality.
OBS and StreamLabs are two of the most popular programs for streaming and both allow for high-quality streams.
Just make sure to follow these tips when using it:
5. Make sure everything is plugged in
Sounds obvious, I know.
But make sure that all devices are powered on and connected to the internet before streaming.
6. Use a good internet browser
Some browsers are better than others when streaming, so try using Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox for the best experience.
7. Stream at your computer’s optimum performance level
To ensure that you end up with the highest quality stream possible, make sure to stream at your computer’s optimum performance level.
However, you should never sacrifice computer safety for how it affects your stream quality.
For example, if applications are crashing or stuttering while streaming, use the Task Manager to close them down (this does not affect your stream).
8. Try different broadcasting modes in StreamLabs
Every game is different and some games will perform better using different broadcasting modes in StreamLabs.
For example, I prefer to use “Direct Input” for games that have a lot of action and movement (like FPS games), but I use “Window Capture” for more calm or slower paced games (like strategy games).
How to Improve Stream Quality on Xbox or PS5
Streaming straight to your Xbox or PS5 is very different to streaming on OBS or Streamlabs.
So, make sure you follow along with these quick tips:
8. You need to optimize how your Xbox or PS5 streams
To ensure that you end up with as high-quality stream as possible, make sure to optimize your Xbox or PS5 for your stream.
You can do this by following these simple steps:
- Go to Settings
- Select Preferences
- Select Broadcast & capture
- Choose the video encoding quality that works best for you
9. Test different broadcasting resolutions
Just like with different broadcasting modes in StreamLabs, you may find that some resolutions work better for your Xbox or PS5 stream than others.
Streaming in 1080p is usually a good idea, but it all depends on your internet connection and how your console performs.
10. Test different streaming sources
Again, just like with different broadcasting modes in OBS, you may find that some sources work better for your Xbox or PS5 stream than others.
For example, I use “External” if I’m using a capture card or Elgato device and “Game Capture” when I’m streaming from my console.
How to Fix Twitch Video Quality
Now that you know how to improve your Twitch stream quality , it’s time to look at how to fix video quality when things go wrong.
For example, say the quality of your stream suddenly starts stuttering or buffering.
You can try these steps:
11. Check if your internet is performing how it should be
If your internet is having problems, it will definitely affect your Twitch stream quality.
To test this, try streaming a different video on another website and see if the results are any better.
12. Check how much bandwidth your stream is using
If you’re using too much bandwidth for your internet connection, it will also affect the quality of your stream.
To find this out, go to Speedtest.net and run a speed test.
13. Close any programs that are using a lot of bandwidth
If you have any programs running in the background that are using up a lot of bandwidth (like torrents), try closing them down to see if that helps.
14. Try a different streaming service
If you’re using an OBS or Streamlabs, try switching to the Twitch broadcasting app.
15. Try a different internet browser
If you’re using a browser that’s not Chrome or Firefox, try switching to see if that makes any difference.
16. Use a different device for streaming
If you’re using a laptop to stream, try using a desktop computer instead.
17. Reset your network settings
If none of the above solutions work, you may need to reset your network settings.
To do this:
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Select ‘Network’
- Choose ‘Reset network settings’
This will reset all of your current network settings and may help to improve the quality of your Twitch stream.
There are a lot of things you can do to improve the quality of your Twitch stream, and these are just a few examples.
So, make sure you experiment with different settings and modes to see what works best for you.
“How do I make my Twitch stream clearer?”
This is a common question among new streamers.
Luckily for you, there are a few things that you can do to make your Twitch stream clearer, instantly.
Let’s jump in:
18. Use a graphics card
If you’re using a laptop to stream, make sure it has a good graphics card. This will help with the quality of your stream.
19. Use a wired connection
Try to use a wired connection instead of a wireless connection when streaming. Wired connections are more reliable and tend to have less lag.
20. Optimize your settings
Streaming at a high bitrate can use up a lot of bandwidth, so make sure to optimize your settings according to your internet connection.
Oh, and make sure to adjust the resolution of your stream. If your resolution is too low, your stream will be fuzzy and difficult to see. Increasing the resolution will make your image sharper and easier to see.
21. Use a quality monitor
A good monitor is key for streaming high-quality video. Make sure to use a monitor that has a high resolution and good color accuracy.
22. Lower your graphics settings
If you’re experiencing lag or choppiness in your game, try lowering your graphics settings.
23. Turn off in-game music
Viewers won’t want to hear your game music and you don’t want to waste extra bandwidth on an audio stream. Make sure to turn off in-game music so only the game sounds remain.
In conclusion
These are just a few tips that can help improve the quality of your Twitch stream in under 5 minutes.
Test them out.
And see which work best for you.
Oh, and for more tips and advice, be sure to check out our other blog posts!
In the meantime, have fun gaming!
-The Zombie Writing Team