Multistream Bandwidth Calculator
Calculate the upload speed you need to stream to multiple platforms at once — whether you're using a relay service or OBS multi-output.
Multistream method
Bandwidth requirement
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How the calculation works
There are two ways to multistream. With a relay service (Restream.io, Streamlabs Multistream), you send one stream and the service copies it to each platform — your upload requirement is the same as a single-platform stream.
With OBS multi-output, OBS encodes and uploads each stream independently. Your total upload requirement is the sum of all stream bitrates. The calculator adds a 25% headroom buffer to account for network jitter and bitrate spikes.
Frequently asked questions
Which method is better — relay or OBS multi-output?
Relay services are easier and use less bandwidth, but introduce a small amount of additional latency and may degrade quality at their re-encoding step. OBS multi-output gives you full control and quality for each destination but requires much more upload bandwidth and CPU.
Does a relay service affect stream quality?
It depends on the service. Premium relay plans typically pass your stream through without re-encoding (passthrough). Free or lower-tier plans may re-encode, which can reduce quality. Check the service's documentation for their passthrough policy.
Why does the calculator add 25% headroom?
Network conditions fluctuate, and OBS bitrate can spike above the target during complex scenes. Using 75% or less of your total upload prevents the encoder from competing with network overhead and causing dropped frames.
Can I multistream on Twitch Partner?
Twitch's non-exclusivity policy was relaxed in 2023. Partners can now simulcast to other platforms. Affiliates were already allowed to multistream. Check Twitch's current Terms of Service for the latest requirements.
What's the best relay service for multistreaming?
Restream.io and Streamlabs Multistream are the most popular options. Restream supports 30+ platforms and has better analytics; Streamlabs Multistream integrates tightly with Streamlabs alerts and overlays. Both offer free tiers with basic features and paid plans for higher quality and more destinations.
Does OBS multi-output affect stream quality on each platform?
No — OBS encodes each output independently with its own bitrate and settings. You can send Twitch a 6,000 kbps stream and Kick a 4,000 kbps stream simultaneously. The tradeoff is GPU/CPU load, since each output requires separate encoding work.
Can I use different titles on each platform when multistreaming?
With relay services, you typically set one title that gets sent to all platforms simultaneously. OBS multi-output lets you configure RTMP destinations independently, but title/game info is set at the Twitch/YouTube dashboard level, not in OBS. Most streamers use the same title across platforms when simulcasting.
Does multistreaming hurt my viewer count on Twitch?
Not directly — viewers on each platform are counted separately on their respective platform. However, splitting your audience across platforms means neither platform shows your full viewer count in the directory, which can hurt organic discovery. Most small streamers accept this tradeoff for broader reach.