When you try to start streaming or recording in OBS Studio and encounter the Starting the output failed error, it can be frustrating. This issue typically occurs when your output settings don't match your system's capabilities, or when conflicts arise with other programs. In this guide, we'll walk you through the main causes and proven solutions step by step.
Common Causes
Output failures generally stem from three main issues.
First, your bitrate or encoder settings may exceed your computer's processing power. When your GPU or CPU can't handle the configured settings, the output simply won't start.
Second, other programs might already be using your graphics card or audio devices, causing conflicts. This is especially common when running games or video editing software alongside OBS.
Third, there may be permission issues with your recording file path, or your disk might be running out of space.
Operating System Considerations
Cause Comparison Table
| Cause | Description | Solution | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excessive Output Settings | Encoder and bitrate exceed system capabilities | Lower bitrate, switch to software encoder | Start with x264 for testing, then adjust |
| Software Conflicts | Other apps using GPU resources | Close conflicting programs | Monitor GPU usage with task manager |
| Permission & Path Issues | Cannot access save location or insufficient space | Run as administrator, change path | Use local drives for best results |
| Encoder–GPU Mismatch | OBS running on iGPU while NVENC/AMF is selected | Force OBS to run on the discrete GPU | Windows Graphics settings → set OBS to “High performance” |
| Plugin Conflicts | Outdated/incompatible plugins block encoder init | Launch in Safe Mode or remove plugins | Re-test after removing recent overlays/capture plugins |
Step-by-Step Solutions
- Upload a clean log (Help ▶ Log Files ▶ Upload Current Log) and review errors.
- Test in Safe Mode to exclude plugin conflicts; if output starts, remove/update the offending plugin.
- Switch both Streaming/Recording encoders to x264 (software) and try again. If it starts, re-enable your hardware encoder afterward.
- For NVENC/AMF/QSV, make sure OBS runs on the correct GPU (Windows Graphics settings → set OBS to “High performance”).
- Fix path/permissions: choose a local, writable folder; on Windows, allow OBS through “Controlled Folder Access.”
- Update graphics drivers (NVIDIA/AMD/Intel) to the latest stable version.
- (Optional load check) Lower resolution/frame rate/bitrate for testing (e.g., 720p30, ~3000 kbps) and scale up after stability is confirmed.
Real User Experiences
Community reports often resolve this by temporarily switching to x264 to confirm output starts, then returning to the preferred hardware encoder after checking drivers, GPU assignment, and permissions.
Special Case Solutions
Quick Q&A
Recording button not responding?
Check write permissions for your save location. Running OBS as administrator typically resolves this issue.
Hardware encoder missing from the list?
Update your graphics drivers and verify that your GPU is recognized in Device Manager. If you use NVENC, ensure OBS itself runs on the NVIDIA GPU (Windows Graphics settings → High performance).
Final Troubleshooting Checklist
- 5-Step Summary: Admin rights → Lower bitrate → Switch to x264 → Local path → Update drivers
- Quick Fix: Switch to x264 and run a test recording
- Verify recording path permissions and available disk space
- Close other capture/overlay programs
- If issues persist, upload logs (Help ▶ Log Files ▶ Upload)
Additional FAQ
Recording works but streaming fails?
Verify your stream key and server address in your streaming settings. Copy and paste the key again from your platform's dashboard to ensure accuracy.
Error appeared after OBS update?
Updates can sometimes reset your settings. Try reconfiguring your output settings from scratch.
References
OBS Official Help — Official troubleshooting guide for output errors.
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