Pixelation and buffering shouldn't disturb you or your audience - let's help you fix this.
Check your settings
Check your encoder's setup and make sure it aligns with the recommended settings.
Avoid unusual values, like unsupported resolutions or settings exceeding the recommended FPS/keyframe interval.
Make sure your bitrate isn't too low for your stream resolution.
For 720p (HD), maintain a minimum of 1.5 Mbps,
For 1080p (Full HD), maintain a minimum of 3 Mbps.
If your settings don't match the requirements, readjust and try a new stream.
If you use OBS, try OBS Analyzer to diagnose critical issues or warnings and address them before further testing.
Check your internet connection
Your upload speed may not be high enough to support your bitrate, or you may not be streaming to the best server in your region.
Run an internal speed test to check your upload speed to Restream servers.
We recommend at least 10 Mbps and ideally over 25 Mbps.
Find the server with the highest upload speed and use it in your encoder's settings.
You can copy the server's RTMP URL from the speed test page.
Set your video bitrate to no more than half of your upload speed.
For example, if your upload speed is 10 Mbps, don't set your bitrate over 5 Mbps.
If your speeds are too low, reboot your modem/router and try an ethernet cable for stability.
If ethernet isn't possible, move closer to the router.
If low speeds persist, consider contacting your ISP.
Check if your device is overloaded
On Windows, press CTRL + Alt + Delete, then open Task Manager.
On Mac, open your Launchpad and then the Activity Monitor.
If your CPU usage is 80% or higher:
Close unnecessary apps running in the background.
Keep your laptop plugged in.
Reboot.
Lower your encoder settings (bitrate, resolution, FPS, slower encoder preset) until the stream becomes more stable.
If overload persists, consider upgrading to a device with more processing power.
💡 Restream Support is available 24/7 to offer assistance with complex issues.
Click the "Need Help?" button at the bottom right corner of your screen.