How to Download and Install OBS Studio
Download OBS Studio from the official OBS website and select the package for your operating system and computer type. After installation, check the camera and microphone before connecting a live platform.
Use the normal supported installer unless you have a specific reason to choose a portable or development build.
Install on Windows
- 1.Open the official OBS download page.
- 2.Choose the supported Windows installer.
- 3.Run it and follow the installation prompts.
- 4.Open OBS and complete the initial setup wizard.
The mainstream Windows release supports Windows 10 and 11 at the October 2026 check. Windows ARM is a separate compatibility case; verify the build and features you need rather than assuming every x64 plugin or tutorial applies.
A ZIP download is available for supported portable workflows, but it requires a different setup from the standard installer.
Install on Mac
Check Apple menu → About This Mac to identify whether your Mac uses Apple Silicon or Intel, then choose the matching OBS download.
Open the downloaded .dmg and drag OBS into Applications. Launch the app from there and follow legitimate operating-system prompts.
The current download page requires macOS 13 or later. If your Mac cannot run the supported release, consult OBS’s official Mac compatibility page before choosing an older build. Do not assume an old installer remains supported.
Install on Linux
OBS officially provides a Flatpak through Flathub and an Ubuntu PPA for the Ubuntu versions listed on its download page.
Choose the method supported by your distribution. If using the PPA, follow the current commands on the official page, including refreshing package information. Old Ubuntu-version instructions may no longer describe the supported package.
Keep plugin installation consistent with the OBS package: Flatpak plugins and native-system packages are not automatically interchangeable.
Allow the permissions you need
On Mac, use OBS Studio → Review App Permissions to review camera, microphone, and screen capture access. Other systems may also have device privacy controls.
Grant permissions for the features you actually use. Installing OBS does not authorize it to access a microphone if the operating system has blocked that device.
Test the first session
Add a camera, speak into the intended microphone, and make a short recording. Play it back before setting up a full production.
For live streaming, follow the destination's supported OBS connection instructions. The installer does not automatically connect a creator account or choose the correct streaming requirements.