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OBS Starting the Output Failed Error: 4 Tested Ways to Fix

This error is usually due to improper or corrupt GPU drivers

3 min. read

Published onJuly 25, 2024

published onJuly 25, 2024

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To fix various driver issues on your PC, you will need a dedicated tool to find the freshest and the original drivers. You can use PC HelpSoft Driver Updater to do it in 3 easy steps:

The OBSStarting the output failederror usually shows up when you start recording. The problem is mostly due to problematic NVENC or AMD drivers or missing codecs, but the solutions below will help you fix it quickly.

How do I fix the Starting the output failed error in OBS?

How do I fix the Starting the output failed error in OBS?

1. Update your video drivers

Updating your video drivers can resolve compatibility issues with OBS and ensure that your hardware can properly utilize NVENC or AMD encoders.

If you prefer quicker alternatives, you should try a reliable driver updater. One of the most recommended tools is PC HelpSoft Driver Updater. Once you install it, it will start scanning to find outdated or malfunctioning drivers and automatically update them with the latest driver options.

⇒Get PC HelpSoft Driver Updater

2. Change the encoder settings in OBS

Changing the encoder to Software (x264) can bypass issues with hardware encoders that may not be supported or properly configured.

3. Run OBS as administrator

Running OBS as an administrator can prevent permission-related issues that may interfere with recording or streaming.

4. Set GPU to 0 in OBS Output

Setting the GPU to 0 ensures that OBS uses the primary GPU for encoding, which can resolve issues with output failure.

By following these steps, you should be able to fix the OBS Starting the output failed error and get back to your streaming or recording activities. To prevent future issues, keep your drivers updated and regularly check for OBS updates.

If you want toset the max B-frames for OBS, the highlighted guide will provide all the needed information. You might also want to check our guide onhow to use the Multipass Mode in OBS.

Did you succeeded in fixing the OBS Starting the output failed error using out methods? Let us know in the comments below.

More about the topics:Obs studio

Claudiu Andone

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Oldtimer in the tech and science press, Claudiu is focused on whatever comes new from Microsoft.

His abrupt interest in computers started when he saw the first Home Computer as a kid. However, his passion for Windows and everything related became obvious when he became a sys admin in a computer science high school.

With 14 years of experience in writing about everything there is to know about science and technology, Claudiu also likes rock music, chilling in the garden, and Star Wars. May the force be with you, always!

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Claudiu Andone

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Oldtimer in the tech and science press, with 14 years of experience in writing on everything there is to know about science, technology, and Microsoft