Last Updated · December 24, 2024

How to Stream Videos from Laptop with OBS on Mac

how to stream videos from laptop with obs on mac cover image

With handy tools like OBS, one can stream omnidirectionally from the laptop onto the entire world. If you're a gamer, a content creator, or even hosting a virtual event, OBS is a great option when you want to share your screen and ideas with it. However, setting up for Mac could be a bit confusing without the proper guide.

In this article, we discuss a detailed, step-by-step guide to how to stream videos from a laptop with OBS on Mac for easy and trouble-free streaming.

In this article:

Best Way to Stream Videos from Laptop with OBS on Mac
Best Camera for Live Streaming - OBSBOT Tail Air

Part 1: Best Way to Stream Videos from Laptop with OBS on Mac

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Before setting up OBS, make sure you have the following hardware:

A MacOS Laptop: MacBook Air/Pro or iMac.
OBS Studio: Download and install it from the official OBS website.
A Capture Card: Essential for capturing video from external devices.
Camera: For example, OBSBOT Tail Air is used for online live streaming.
HDMI Cable: To connect the capture card to the camera or other video sources.
Stable Internet Connection: Preferably, an upload speed above 5 Mbps for HD streaming.

Step 2: Set Up OBS Studio on Mac

1. Download and Install OBS

Visit the official OBS website and download its macOS version.

set up obs studio on mac 1

Drag it to the Applications folder for installation and run the software.

2. Grant Necessary Permissions

On the very first run, macOS may also ask for permission regarding the recording of screens and microphone access. Allow it in System Preferences > Security & Privacy.

3. Adjust Basic Settings

Open up OBS and choose Settings > Stream.
Choose your streaming platform, for example, YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook Live, and enter your Stream Key in the relevant box (found in your platform's account settings under streaming).

set up obs studio on mac 2

In the Output category, set your video bitrate, e.g., 2500 Kbps for 720p or 6000 Kbps for 1080p.

set up obs studio on mac 3

Step 3: Connect and Set Up Your Capturing Card

1. Connect the Capture Card

Insert the capture card into the USB-C or USB-A port of this Mac.
Then use an HDMI cable to connect the video source from the laptop to the capture card.

2. Set the Capture Card as an Input in OBS

Launch OBS software, click the 'plus' sign at the bottom of the Source panel, and select Video Capture Device.

connect and set up your capturing card 1

Name source (e.g. Capture Card Input) and hit 'OK'.

connect and set up your capturing card 2

From the drop-down list, select your card as the device.
Specify resolution and frame rate for quality (for instance 1920x1080 at 30fps).

connect and set up your capturing card 3

3. Audio Configuration

Go to the Audio Mixer panel under OBS to set audio for synchronization.
Click the wheel to the side of your capture card input and select Advanced Audio Properties to adjust latency as needed.

connect and set up your capturing card 4

Step 4: Customize Your Stream Layout

1. Add Overlays and Scenes

Using the Scenes panel, you can create different layouts to use for your stream (e.g. full camera view, split screen with gameplay, or slides), as well as overlays, logos, and text to improve the appearance of the stream.

customize your stream layout

2. Optimize Your Webcam

If you are using a webcam, you should use it as an independent Video Capture Device source. Place the webcam feed within your layout as it relates to the main video source.

Step 5: Start Streaming

1. Preview Your Stream

Click Start Preview in the OBS, and see if everything heaps up to be okay when it sounds right. Check for lag, audio sync issues, and frame drop.

2. Go Live

So when you are satisfied with everything you have viewed in the preview window, click on Start Streaming, and your stream will go live on your selected platform.

start streaming

Part 2: Best Camera for Live Streaming - OBSBOT Tail Air

Quality and flexibility greatly influence the capabilities of cameras designed for live streaming. For streamers seeking to elevate their content to the next level, the OBSBOT Tail Air emerges as a standout option, combining advanced features with user-friendly functionality.

Learn More Buy Now

Key Features:

AI Tracking and Auto-Framing: Tail Air automatically tracks your subjects with its sophisticated artificial intelligence algorithm, so you can relax and wander around as you present.
4K Ultra HD Recording: Tail Air's 4K resolution provides incredibly clear images, making it more than good enough for professional streaming. The sharpness of the footage allow viewers to appreciate the full quality of the content, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Gesture Control: All of this can be done via intuitive gestures, eliminating the need to touch the menus to get the camera to understand what you want it to do in the middle of a stream.
Compact and Portable: Its compact and light design lets you effortlessly pack it into your bag without taking up too much space, and you can start streaming or shooting in no time, whether you're setting up at a venue or simply moving from room to room.

Conclusion

It might seem difficult to stream videos from your laptop using OBS on Mac, but it's quite easy when done correctly. Now, you must know how to maximize your use of OBS, even external devices such as capture cards and really good cameras, so you can stream like a pro. With superb video quality and features that make your stream dynamic, your video content will stand out when you pair OBS with something like the OBSBOT Tail Air for multi-purpose recording.