OBS Studio NVENC Error – FIX

NVENC error in OBS can be a frustrating hurdle to overcome. As seasoned experts in SEO and technology copywriting, we’re here to provide you with an in-depth guide on diagnosing and resolving this common issue. Let’s delve into the root causes and effective solutions to ensure seamless streaming and recording experiences.

What is NVENC Encoder OBS?

NVENC Encoder OBS, also known as NVIDIA Encoder OBS, is a remarkable video encoding technology developed by NVIDIA. It empowers users to capture and stream high-quality videos on their computers while maintaining optimal performance and frame rates. This encoding technology is a favorite among streamers, gamers, and content creators, offering both free and paid versions.

• Free Version: Supports encoding up to 1080p video at 60 FPS.
• Paid Version: Elevates the experience with support for up to 4K video at 120 FPS, along with customizable profiles and advanced settings.

What Causes OBS NVENC Error?

Understanding the root causes of the NVENC error is crucial for effective troubleshooting. This error can manifest due to several factors:

1. Outdated Graphics Driver: One of the primary culprits is an outdated graphics driver.
2. Application Conflicts: Conflicts between OBS and other running applications or services can trigger the error.
3. Overlay Settings: Any overlay settings, especially those related to NVIDIA and Discord, can lead to the error.
4. Microsoft Visual C++ Components: Incompatibilities with Microsoft Visual C++ components can also contribute to the issue.
5. NVIDIA Encoder Library: A faulty or outdated version of the NVIDIA Encoder library may cause hardware-accelerated video encoding problems.

How to Fix OBS NVENC Error?

Now that we’ve identified the potential causes, let’s explore effective solutions to resolve the NVENC error and get your streaming or recording back on track.

Solution 1: Restart Your PC

Sometimes, a simple restart can work wonders. Restart your computer to clear any misconfigured settings, glitches, or memory usage issues that might be triggering the NVENC error.

1. Press Windows + D keys to navigate to your Desktop.
2. Then, press Alt + F4 keys and choose “Restart.”
3. Click “OK.”

Solution 2: Update Your GPU Driver

Ensuring your graphics driver is up to date is crucial for seamless performance.

1. Press the Windows key and type “Device Manager.” Click on “Open.”
2. Double-click on “Display adapters” to expand the driver.
3. Right-click on the graphics driver and select “Update driver.
4. Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software” and follow the on-screen instructions.

Alternatively, you can use a Driver Updater tool for automated driver updates.

Solution 3: Reduce Output Resolution in OBS

Lowering the output resolution can reduce data processing requirements and improve performance.

1. Open OBS Studio and click on the “Settings” button.
2. Navigate to the “Video” tab and select “Output (Scaled) Resolution.”
3. Choose a lower resolution from the drop-down list.
4. Click “Apply” and “OK” to save the changes.

Solution 4: Disabling In-Game Overlays (NVIDIA & Discord)

In-game overlays can conflict with OBS and trigger the NVENC error. Disable them as follows:

4A. Disable Overlay Settings on NVIDIA Experience

1. Click on the arrow icon in the taskbar to reveal hidden icons.
2. Right-click on the NVIDIA icon and select “Nvidia GeForce Experience.”
3. In the GeForce Experience app, click the gear icon for “Settings.”
4. Navigate to “GENERAL settings” and disable “IN-GAME OVERLAY.”

4B. Disable Overlay Settings on Discord

1. Open Discord.
2. Click on the cogwheel icon to access User Settings.
3. Go to “App Settings” and select “Overlay.”
4. Turn off “Enable in-game overlay.”

Solution 5: Switch to QuickSync for Hardware Encoding

QuickSync, Intel’s hardware-accelerated encoding technology, can provide a more reliable alternative to NVENC.

1. Launch OBS, go to “File” > “Settings.”
2. In the “Output” tab, select “QuickSync H.264” as the Encoder.

Ensure your computer meets the system requirements for QuickSync.

Solution 6: Switch to Software (x264) for Software Encoding

Software encoding can be a more reliable option if your hardware supports it.

1. Navigate to OBS Settings > Output tab.
2. In the Encoder settings, choose “Software (x264)” and select “Enforce streaming service encoder settings.”

Solution 7: Reinstall Microsoft C++ Redistributables

Reinstalling Microsoft C++ Redistributables can resolve NVENC errors related to these components.

1. Search for “Apps & features” in the search menu and open it.
2. Find and uninstall all Microsoft Visual C++ packages.
3. Launch the Command Prompt as an administrator and run the following commands:

4. Download and install the latest Visual C++ Redistributable files from the official Microsoft website.
5. Reboot your computer.

Recommended Solution – Fix Various PC Issues & Errors

For a comprehensive solution to various PC issues and errors, consider using a PC Repair Tool. This powerful tool can detect and resolve common PC errors, optimize system performance, and protect your system from malware and hardware failures.

Conclusion

In this extensive guide, we’ve explored the NVENC error in OBS and provided a range of solutions to help you overcome it. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth streaming and recording experience. If you encounter any issues or have further questions, feel free to reach out to us on our Facebook Page. Good luck with your streaming endeavors!

Question 1: What is NVENC Encoder OBS? Answer 1: NVENC Encoder OBS, or NVIDIA Encoder OBS, is a video encoding technology developed by NVIDIA that enables users to stream and record high-quality video on their computers without sacrificing performance or frame rate.

Question 2: What causes the NVENC error in OBS? Answer 2: The NVENC error in OBS can be caused by various factors, including outdated GPU drivers, in-game overlays, conflicts with other applications, and issues with Microsoft Visual C++ components.

Question 3: How can I update my GPU driver to resolve the NVENC error? Answer 3: To update your GPU driver and resolve the NVENC error, go to Device Manager, right-click on your graphics driver, and select “Update driver.” Alternatively, use a Driver Updater tool for automated updates.

Question 4: Why is reducing the output resolution in OBS helpful in fixing the error? Answer 4: Reducing the output resolution in OBS is helpful because it lowers data processing requirements and can improve performance, reducing the likelihood of encountering the NVENC error.

Question 5: How do I disable in-game overlays on NVIDIA Experience and Discord? Answer 5: To disable in-game overlays on NVIDIA Experience and Discord, follow specific steps outlined in the guide, ensuring that these overlays do not interfere with OBS.

Question 6: What is QuickSync, and how can it help resolve the NVENC error? Answer 6: QuickSync is Intel’s hardware-accelerated encoding technology that can provide a more reliable alternative to NVENC. It uses fewer CPU resources and offers better performance.

Question 7: When should I consider switching to software encoding (x264)? Answer 7: Consider switching to software encoding (x264) when your computer meets the requirements, and you want a reliable encoding method that doesn’t suffer from performance issues.

Question 8: How do I reinstall Microsoft C++ Redistributables to fix the error? Answer 8: To reinstall Microsoft C++ Redistributables, follow a step-by-step guide outlined in the article, ensuring you have the latest versions installed.

Question 9: Can you recommend a PC Repair Tool for resolving PC issues and errors? Answer 9: A recommended PC Repair Tool is mentioned in the article to help users address various PC issues, errors, and optimize system performance.