How to Improve Recording Quality in OBS Studio - Fix Blurry Recordings

Introduction

Improving the recording quality in OBS Studio is essential for content creators who want to ensure their videos look professional and engaging. This guide will cover the key settings you need to adjust within OBS to achieve higher-quality recordings.

Step 1: Adjust Video Settings

1. Open OBS Studio Settings: Launch the OBS Studio application and navigate to the settings menu.

2. Configure Video Settings:

   • Select the "Video" tab from the sidebar.
   • Set your Base Resolution to 1920x1080 (or your screen's native resolution).
   • Set the Output Resolution to 1920x1080 as well. This ensures that your recordings are captured in 1080p resolution.
   • Check the Downscale Filter option; if it’s enabled, set it to Lanczos.
   • Set the Common FPS Values to 60. This will provide smooth motion in your recordings.

3. Apply Changes: Once you’ve made these adjustments, click “Apply” at the bottom of the settings window.

Step 2: Adjust Output Settings

1. Open Output Settings: In the settings menu, head to the "Output" tab.

2. Select Output Mode: Change the Output Mode to Advanced and then select the Recording tab.

3. Recording Format: Choose MP4 as your recording format for optimal quality while keeping file sizes reasonable.

4. Bit Rate Settings:

   • Locate the bit rate option. The higher the bit rate you select, the better the video quality will be, though this will increase the file size.
   • For most recordings, a bit rate of 10,000 kbps should suffice. For higher quality, consider using 16,000 or 20,000 kbps.
   • If you see a CQ level slider instead of bit rates, keep in mind that lower numbers deliver better quality. A CQ level of 18 works well for most cases.

5. Additional Adjustments for Non-Gameplay Recordings: If you aren’t recording gameplay, you can further enhance quality by returning to the video settings and changing the FPS to 30. This setting allows you to maintain a good image quality while reducing the bit rate requirement, as the image only updates 30 times per second instead of 60.

Step 3: Finalize Your Settings

After completing these adjustments, click “OK” to exit the settings menu. You should now have significantly improved recording quality in OBS Studio.

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Keyword

• OBS Studio
• video settings
• output settings
• recording quality
• bit rate
• FPS
• MP4
• Lanczos
• CQ level

FAQ

Q: What resolution should I set for my recordings in OBS Studio?
A: It's recommended to set both the Base and Output Resolution to 1920x1080 for 1080p recordings.

Q: What is the best bit rate to use for high-quality recordings?
A: A bit rate of 10,000 kbps is usually sufficient, but you can opt for 16,000 or 20,000 kbps for even better quality.

Q: Should I change the FPS if I'm not recording gameplay?
A: Yes, setting the FPS to 30 can enhance quality without requiring a higher bit rate, making your recordings look good while conserving space.

Q: What format should I use for recording in OBS?
A: The recommended format for recording is MP4, which provides a balance between quality and file size.

Q: How do I apply changes after adjusting settings in OBS Studio?
A: After making changes, ensure you click “Apply,” and then “OK” to save the modifications.