Obs Screen Recorder Encoder Overload: How to Reduce CPU Usage

When using OBS (Open Broadcasting Software) for screen recording, it's not uncommon to encounter issues with CPU overload, particularly when dealing with high-quality video settings. This article will provide tips on how to reduce CPU usage and overcome the 'Encoding overloaded!' message that may appear in OBS.

Lowering Frame Rate: A Temporary Solution

If your computer's CPU is struggling to keep up with the recording process, consider lowering your frame rate to something below 30 FPS. This will reduce the number of frames your CPU needs to process within a given time span, thereby reducing CPU usage. If you're currently streaming above 30 FPS, try experimenting with a lower frame rate to see if it improves performance.

Downscaling Resolution: A More Permanent Solution

Another way to reduce CPU usage is to downscale your resolution while keeping your Base (Canvas) Resolution the same. This means your layout won't change, but you'll be using fewer resources to encode the video. You can adjust the downscaled resolution in Settings > Video > Output (Scaled) Resolution. For example, you could downscale from 1080p to 720p or lower.

Understanding Downscale Filters

The different downscale filters available in OBS – bilinear, bicubic, and Lanczos – change the algorithm used to shrink the picture. Bilinear is the fastest option and takes up fewer resources but may not look as good. Lanczos, on the other hand, takes more resources but produces a better image. You can experiment with each filter to see which one works best for your needs.

Impact of Resolution on CPU Usage

The resolution you're encoding at has the biggest impact on CPU usage. For example, 1080p has significantly more pixels per frame than 720p, and this increased pixel density can lead to higher CPU usage. By downscaling your resolution, you can reduce the number of pixels your CPU needs to process, which in turn reduces CPU usage.

Other Ways to Reduce Resource Utilization

In addition to downscaling your resolution, there are other ways to reduce resource utilization and improve performance while encoding:

* Adjust your bitrate: A higher bitrate can put more strain on your CPU. Try reducing the bitrate to see if it improves performance.

* Use a hardware encoder: If you have a high-end GPU, consider using a hardware encoder like NVENC. This can significantly reduce CPU usage.

* Close unnecessary programs: Closing any unnecessary programs or background applications can free up resources and improve performance.

OBS screen recorder encoder overload is a common issue that can cause video to freeze or stutter. By understanding how to reduce CPU usage, you can overcome this problem and continue recording high-quality video without interruptions. Remember to experiment with different settings, such as downscaling your resolution, adjusting your frame rate, and using hardware encoders to find the perfect balance for your computer's hardware.

Obs screen recorder encoder overload