Last Updated · January 16, 2025

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 2

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 2 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 2

The Tail 2 is the premier camera for live streaming, expertly engineered to meet the needs of content creators who demand high performance and exceptional quality. It remains extremely beneficial, convenient, and packed with helpful features that every streamer seriously considering providing a high-quality live stream cannot afford to go without. For streamers who want to improve and establish a more polished stream, the OBSBOT Tail 2 is a perfect recommendation for live streaming.

obsbot tail 2 live production camera

Learn More Pre-Order

Key Features:

AI Tracking 2.0: Keeps subjects centered and in focus, enhancing viewer engagement.
High Resolution: Produces exceptional 4K@60fps and 1080P@120fps video clarity.
Versatile Zoom Options: 5x optical and 12x hybrid zoom for creative shot composition.
Dynamic Angle Adjustment: Hands-free 90° rotation allows for quick framing changes.
12 Optical Lenses & 1/1.5" CMOS Sensor: Provides sharp, vibrant images and excellent low-light performance.
Comprehensive Connectivity: Supports NDI, SDI, HDMI, and more, offering seamless integration with various streaming platforms.

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 2 for multi-purpose recording.