Streaming Bitrate Calculator
Get recommended bitrates for platforms like YouTube and Twitch.
Calculator Inputs
Results
Recommended Bitrate Range
Video Bitrate
4500 - 9000 kbps
Audio Bitrate
128 kbps
Find the Right Bitrate for Your Stream
Choosing the correct bitrate is crucial for a high-quality, buffer-free stream. This tool provides the official recommended bitrate ranges from major platforms like YouTube and Twitch. Select your platform and desired streaming quality to get an instant recommendation for both video and audio bitrates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bitrate?
Bitrate is the amount of data used to encode one second of video or audio. A higher bitrate generally results in higher quality but requires more internet bandwidth to stream smoothly, both for the streamer and the viewer.
Why is there a range for the video bitrate?
The ideal bitrate depends on the content. A low-motion video (like a talk show) can use the lower end of the range, while a high-motion video (like fast-paced gaming) requires a higher bitrate to maintain quality and avoid pixelation.
Should I always use the highest bitrate possible?
Not necessarily. You should choose a bitrate that your upload speed can consistently handle (use our Twitch Bitrate Calculator to check) and that your target audience can view without buffering. Streaming at a bitrate higher than the platform recommends can also cause issues.