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You can record a live stream for free with OBS Studio: add the stream’s video and audio as sources, choose where and how to save the recording, then click Start Recording. For a broadcast on your own YouTube channel, YouTube may also create an archive, but a local recording is the safer backup—especially for streams longer than 12 hours.
Choose the recording method that fits
| Method | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| OBS Studio local recording | Saving a local copy, making a backup, or controlling the recording file | Uses computer resources and disk space; you need to set up sources and output options. OBS is free and open source. OBS Project |
| Platform archive | Keeping an archive of your own broadcast where the platform supports it | Archive availability and retention depend on platform features. YouTube says streams over 12 hours may not be captured. YouTube Help |
You do not generally need a separate capture card to record a computer screen or a stream playing in a browser. You may need additional hardware if your particular source setup requires it; YouTube’s streaming overview discusses encoders, gameplay, overlays, microphones, and cameras. YouTube: Live streaming
Record a live stream with OBS Studio
1. Download OBS and set up your sources
- Download OBS Studio from the official OBS Project website. The project’s official site lists Windows, macOS, and Linux downloads; check the site for the current release and supported versions.
- Open OBS and add the source that contains the video. Depending on your system and setup, that may be a display capture, window capture, capture device, or another source.
- Check the audio mixer while the stream is playing. Confirm that desktop or source audio is moving, and add or enable a microphone source if you want commentary in the recording.
2. Choose the file destination and recording options
- Open Settings → Output and set the recording path to a folder with enough free space.
- Choose an output quality, format, and encoder that suit your computer and what you plan to do with the file. OBS options and labels can change between releases. Twitch’s recording guide describes controls for destination, quality, format, and encoder, and lists formats including FLV, MP4, MOV, MKV, TS, and M3U8. Twitch Help: Recording broadcasts
- If you are unsure where to start, OBS Help recommends trying Simple output mode and its recording presets; it also suggests a hardware encoder when one is available. For advanced choices, consult the OBS recording guide.
Higher recording quality creates larger files, so check available disk space before a long session. An external drive is optional if your computer’s existing storage is short on room.
3. Make a short test, then record
- Click Start Recording and make a short test while the stream is playing.
- Stop the test and play the saved file in a media player. Check that the picture is present and that the system audio—and microphone, if needed—can be heard.
- For the full session, click Start Recording again. Keep an eye on OBS to confirm recording remains active.
- When finished, click Stop Recording, then check the destination folder and verify the file plays.
Use YouTube’s archive for your own broadcast
YouTube can automatically archive a creator’s live stream when it is less than 12 hours long. YouTube warns that streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured at all, and recommends keeping a local archive as a backup. You can manage an archive’s visibility or delete it through YouTube Studio; the relevant area is Content → Live. See YouTube Help: Archive live streams.
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#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
This archive feature is for your own channel’s broadcast; it is not permission to copy or reuse another person’s stream. YouTube says live content must follow its Community Guidelines and Terms of Service. Copyright, consent, and reuse permissions can depend on the content, rights holders, platform terms, and applicable law, so there is no universal permission rule for every stream. Review the relevant rules before recording or sharing someone else’s content.
Troubleshoot a missing or unusable recording
- The video is black or missing: Check that the correct display, window, or capture source is selected and that it is visible in the OBS preview. Source choices vary by operating system and setup.
- The file has no sound: Check the audio mixer during playback and make sure the relevant desktop, source, or microphone audio is enabled. Repeat a brief test and listen to the saved file before an important recording.
- The recording stops or cannot be saved: Check the destination path and available disk space. Long, high-quality recordings need more storage.
- The file is difficult to edit or play: Review the selected recording format and the capabilities of your media player or editing application. OBS format choices can vary with version and settings.
- YouTube did not create an archive: Confirm that you are checking the correct channel and the Content → Live area in YouTube Studio. A stream longer than 12 hours may not be captured, so do not rely on the platform archive alone for a long broadcast.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep your own YouTube channel live around the clock from uploaded videos, rather than save someone else’s stream locally, StreamNeo is a different kind of tool. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live; StreamNeo loops the uploaded videos in the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. It streams the videos as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. Start your free StreamNeo day.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 5
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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