Best OBS Settings for CS2
Quick Answer: For CS2, preventing input lag is the #1 priority. Use
NVENC
to keep your CPU free for the game. Use Game Capture with "Allow Third Party Software"
enabled in Steam launch options if capture fails.
Fixing CS2 Black Screen (Trusted Mode)
CS2 blocks OBS by default in Trusted Mode. You have two options:
- The "Clean" Way: Use Display Capture instead of Game Capture. (Slightly more input lag, but safe).
- The "Pro" Way: Add `-allow_third_party_software` to your CS2 Launch Options in Steam. This allows Game Capture to work but theoretically lowers Trust Factor (though most streamers do it).
Optimal Competitve Settings
You don't want your stream affects your aim.
- Base Canvas: 1920x1080
- Output Res: 1920x1080 (or 1280x720 pure integer scale)
- Downscale Filter: Bilinear (Fastest, least lag).
- Look-ahead: OFF (Reduces encoding lag).