OBS StudioOBS download: get the right build for your computer on the first try
Most install problems come from grabbing the wrong file or a copy from a random mirror. This page tells you which OBS build fits your system, what it needs to run smoothly and how to check the result.
Choose your system for the OBS download
The tab below is picked automatically from your browser, but you can switch it to see the others.
OBS for Windows
The standard route is the full installer, which sets up shortcuts, the virtual camera and automatic update checks. If you prefer a managed store, the Microsoft Store and Steam also carry builds.
- Windows 10 or Windows 11, 64-bit
- A DirectX 11 capable graphics card
- 8 GB of memory is a comfortable minimum
- NVIDIA, AMD or Intel hardware encoding is supported
OBS for macOS
Two disk images are offered: one for Apple silicon (M-series) and one for Intel Macs. Pick the one that matches your chip, otherwise the app will run slowly or not at all.
- A recent macOS release
- Screen Recording permission must be granted
- Microphone and camera permissions on request
- Apple’s hardware encoder is available
OBS for Linux
Linux users usually install through a package manager. Flatpak from Flathub works on most distributions, and many distributions also ship their own package or a PPA.
- X11 or Wayland session (PipeWire for Wayland capture)
- Up-to-date graphics drivers
- VA-API or NVENC for hardware encoding
- Source code available for manual builds
Install steps after the OBS download finishes
The same short routine works on every system.
- Get the file from a trusted placeGet the installer from this page or from a trusted store such as the Microsoft Store or Flathub. If a page asks you to install a “download manager” first, close it.
- Run the installer or open the packageAccept the default folder unless you have a reason to change it. On macOS drag the app into Applications.
- Launch and allow permissionsYour system may ask for access to the screen, microphone or camera. OBS cannot capture what it is not allowed to see.
- Accept the auto-configuration wizardChoose “optimise for streaming” or “optimise for recording”. You can change every value later in Settings.
- Record a ten-second testAdd a display capture, press Start Recording, stop, and play the file back to confirm picture and sound.
What hardware makes the OBS download feel smooth
OBS Studio will start on modest machines, but the numbers below keep a 1080p session stable.
| Part | Light use | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Quad-core, recent | Six cores or more |
| Memory | 4 GB | 16 GB |
| Graphics | Integrated GPU | Card with hardware encoder |
| Disk space | 1 GB for the app | SSD with space for recordings |
| Upload speed | 5 Mbit/s | 10 Mbit/s or more |
OBS download FAQ
How big is the OBS download?
The installer is typically under 150 MB, depending on the system and version.
Does the OBS download include a virtual camera?
Yes. A virtual camera is built in on the major desktop systems, though macOS may ask you to approve a system extension.
Can I install OBS without administrator rights?
On Windows a portable mode exists that runs from a folder. Normal installation usually needs permission to write to program folders.
Is there a mobile version?
No. OBS Studio is built for desktop computers. Phones are usually used as cameras that feed into it.
Installed? Time to build your first scene
Head back to the overview to learn how scenes, sources and the audio mixer fit together.