How do I add a video source in OBS?

To add a video source in OBS, you need to access the "Sources" section and select the type of video input you wish to include in your stream or recording.

How to Add a Video Source in OBS

Adding a video source in OBS Studio is a fundamental step for any stream or recording, allowing you to incorporate webcams, game footage, pre-recorded videos, and more into your scene. The process is straightforward and involves selecting the appropriate source type from the available options.

General Steps to Add a Source

As per the OBS guidelines, the method for adding any source, including video sources, is consistent:

Locate the Sources Section: Open OBS Studio. At the bottom of the interface, you will find the "Sources" dock.
Click the "Add" Button: Click the “+” button under the “Sources” section. This action brings up a list of all available source types.
Choose Your Source: From the list, choose the source you want to add. For video content, you'll select a specific video-related source (explained below).
Name the Source (Optional but Recommended): A small window will pop up, asking you to name your new source. Giving it a descriptive name (e.g., "Webcam - C920", "Gameplay - Valorant") helps with organization, especially when you have multiple sources.
Configure Properties: After naming, a properties window for that specific source type will appear. This is where you select the device, adjust settings, and fine-tune its behavior.
Confirm and Position: Click "OK" to add the source to your current scene. You can then resize, reposition, and crop the video source directly within the OBS preview window.

Common Video Source Types in OBS

OBS offers several types of sources specifically designed for video input. Here's a breakdown of the most frequently used ones:

Video Source Type	Primary Use Case	Key Considerations
Video Capture Device	Webcams, capture cards, DSLR cameras, camcorders	Select the correct device, resolution, and FPS.
Media Source	Local video files (MP4, MOV, FLV), GIFs	Loop option, local file path, hardware decoding for performance.
Display Capture	Capturing an entire monitor/screen	Ideal for desktop tutorials or showing your full screen.
Window Capture	Capturing a specific application window	Useful for specific software, web browsers, or specific game windows.
Game Capture	Capturing fullscreen games	Optimized for game performance; choose specific executable or any fullscreen app.
Browser Source	Web pages, streaming widgets (e.g., alerts)	Used for displaying web-based video content or interactive elements.

Detailed Steps for Specific Video Sources

Here are examples of how to add some of the most common video sources:

Adding a Webcam (Video Capture Device):
1. Click the + button under "Sources."
2. Select Video Capture Device.
3. Name it (e.g., "Facecam").
4. In the properties window, use the "Device" dropdown to select your webcam or capture card.
5. Adjust "Resolution/FPS Type" to "Custom" if needed to set preferred resolution and frame rate.
6. Click "OK."
Adding a Pre-recorded Video (Media Source):
1. Click the + button under "Sources."
2. Select Media Source.
3. Name it (e.g., "Intro Video").
4. Check "Local File" and click "Browse" to navigate to your video file (e.g., MP4, MOV).
5. Check "Loop" if you want the video to play continuously.
6. Click "OK."
Adding Your Desktop Screen (Display Capture):
1. Click the + button under "Sources."
2. Select Display Capture.
3. Name it (e.g., "Main Monitor").
4. In the properties, choose the correct display from the dropdown if you have multiple monitors.
5. Decide whether to capture the cursor.
6. Click "OK."

By understanding these options and the simple steps outlined, you can effectively integrate various video elements into your OBS scenes, enhancing your streams and recordings.