The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →To receive NDI in Streamlabs Desktop, install the NewTek NDI SDK redist on both the receiving computer and the computer sending the feed, reboot both, then add an NDI Source to a scene and choose the active stream. A separate sender application must already be transmitting NDI over your local network; Streamlabs Desktop is the receiver.
Before you start: prepare an NDI sender
NDI carries a video feed over a network from a sender to a receiver. Streamlabs Desktop receives that feed as a scene source; it does not create the outgoing NDI stream by itself. Start an NDI sender on the other computer, or on the device that will provide the video.
Streamlabs documents several sender paths. For example, OBS Studio 31 or later can send NDI using the DistroAV plugin and NDI Runtime 6. Its other guides cover Scan Converter 2 for sending an entire monitor or a selected region, vMix, and a mobile device. Choose the path that matches what you want to capture; the receiving setup does not require one particular sender application.
For the OBS path, see Streamlabs’ OBS Studio NDI output guide. For Scan Converter 2, vMix, or a mobile sender, see Streamlabs’ sender options guide.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Install the NDI prerequisite on both computers
- Install the NewTek NDI SDK redist on the computer running Streamlabs Desktop.
- Install the same prerequisite on the computer running the NDI sender.
- Reboot both computers after installation.
Streamlabs’ receiver instructions specify NDI SDK 6 or higher for Streamlabs Desktop version 1.20.6 and later. This requirement is stated in the receiver article, last updated June 10, 2026. Follow that Streamlabs-specific guidance rather than assuming an older runtime requirement from another plugin or guide applies.
Add the incoming stream to a Streamlabs scene
- Start the sender and confirm it is transmitting an NDI stream on the local network.
- In Streamlabs Desktop, open the scene where you want the feed.
- In the Sources list, click the + icon.
- Select NDI Source.
- In the source properties, choose the active NDI stream you want to receive.
Streamlabs says active NDI streams on the local network are detected automatically. For the official receiving steps, see NDI Receiving Setup in Streamlabs Desktop.
Rank #2
- 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.
Choose the sender path that fits your capture
- OBS Studio: Use this when the sending computer already uses OBS and you want to send an OBS output. Streamlabs’ guide describes OBS Studio 31 or later with DistroAV and NDI Runtime 6. Note that audio from a Browser source using the Dedicated Output NDI filter is not transmitted because of Browser source limitations; use another audio method for that specific path.
- Scan Converter 2: Use this when you want to transmit a whole monitor or a selected screen region.
- vMix or a mobile device: These are also listed by Streamlabs as possible NDI sender options. Check the sender’s own setup instructions for its capture and audio behavior.
Troubleshoot a missing source or absent video
NDI Source does not appear in the Sources menu
- Check that the NewTek NDI SDK redist was installed correctly on the receiving computer.
- Reboot after installing the SDK if you have not already done so.
The NDI Source exists but the stream is not listed or does not arrive
- Make sure the sender is running and actively transmitting an NDI stream.
- Allow both the sender application and Streamlabs Desktop through the firewall.
- Confirm both computers are using the private network profile.
- Verify the NDI SDK redist is installed on both the sender and receiver, then reboot if either installation was just completed.
Streamlabs’ receiver guide does not specify firewall port numbers or particular router settings, so there is no documented port value to enter as part of this setup.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
NDI receiving is for bringing a live feed from another app or device into a Streamlabs scene. If instead you want a YouTube channel to keep playing uploaded videos as a 24/7 live stream, StreamNeo is a separate cloud service: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It plays uploaded video rather than broadcasting a camera feed.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- 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.
- Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on.
- Video streams as uploaded, at any quality up to 4K 60fps, for one flat price per slot.
- It automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card required; the Monthly plan is $9.99 per month.
Learn more at StreamNeo, or start your free first day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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
- 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
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
