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Streaming Codec: x264 vs. NVENC

Choosing a Codec: A Key Factor for Successful Streaming

Choosing a codec is one of the key factors for successful streaming. It affects video quality, hardware load, and stream stability. Nowadays, streamers most often use two codecs: x264 and NVENC. Each has its own features, advantages, and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss which codec is best suited for different streaming conditions, what to pay attention to, and how to optimize settings for maximum performance.

What a Codec Is and Why It Is Needed

A codec is a program or algorithm that compresses video and audio before sending it to the streaming platform. The main task of a codec is to reduce the stream size without significant quality loss so that the stream runs smoothly even with limited internet bandwidth. The right codec choice affects:

  • Clarity and detail of the image.
  • Smoothness of motion on the screen.
  • Streaming latency.
  • Load on the processor or graphics card.

For streamers, it is important to find a balance between quality and performance so that viewers enjoy a smooth experience without lags or artifacts.

x264: A Universal CPU-Based Codec

x264 is a CPU-based codec that uses H.264 compression algorithms. It is popular due to its flexibility and video quality.

Advantages of x264

  • High video quality, especially at low bitrate.
  • Flexible settings — allows manual adjustment of encoding speed, profile, and compression level.
  • Compatibility — works on most platforms, including Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook.

Disadvantages of x264

  • CPU load — at high resolution and FPS, it can heavily load the CPU, potentially reducing game performance.
  • Requires a powerful PC — 1080p60 or 1440p60 streaming needs a modern processor.
  • Requires fine-tuning — suboptimal settings can cause lags and dropped frames.

When to Use x264

x264 is ideal for streamers with a powerful CPU who want maximum video quality without bitrate limitations. It is especially relevant for:

  • Professional streamers with high-quality demands.
  • Streaming on platforms where video quality is critical to the audience.
  • Situations where the GPU is fully used for gaming rather than encoding.

NVENC: GPU-Based Hardware Encoding

NVENC is NVIDIA's codec, using the built-in chip on the graphics card to compress video. It provides minimal CPU load and stable streaming under heavy load.

Advantages of NVENC

  • Low CPU load — allows full CPU usage for gaming or other tasks.
  • Stable performance at high resolutions — 1080p60 and 4K are easily encoded without FPS drops.
  • Easy setup — minimal parameters for stable streaming, convenient for beginners.

Disadvantages of NVENC

  • Video quality — at low bitrate, quality can be slightly worse than x264, especially in complex dynamic scenes.
  • Dependent on GPU — works only on NVIDIA cards that support NVENC.
  • Less flexible settings — fewer fine-tuning options compared to x264.

When to Use NVENC

NVENC is ideal for streamers with a powerful GPU and a medium or weak CPU. It is especially relevant for:

  • Gamers who do not want to sacrifice FPS in games.
  • Streaming on weak CPUs or laptops.
  • Quick stream setup without deep codec parameter adjustments.

Comparing x264 and NVENC

Comparing x264 and NVENC reveals key differences affecting a streamer’s choice. x264 heavily loads the CPU but provides high image quality, especially at low bitrate, and offers more flexibility in settings. It is universal and compatible with most platforms, making it ideal for professional streamers who prioritize maximum video quality.

NVENC, in turn, uses GPU power for encoding, barely affecting the CPU. This preserves high game performance and minimizes FPS drops. However, at low bitrate, image quality may be slightly lower, and codec settings are limited compared to x264. NVENC is only available on NVIDIA GPUs.

Overall, x264 is better suited for those who want maximum clarity and detail and have a powerful CPU. NVENC is optimal for streamers who want to maintain smooth gameplay and minimize CPU load, especially if the GPU is modern and supports hardware encoding.

Optimizing Stream Settings

For x264

  • Use presets like “veryfast” or “faster” to balance quality and CPU load.
  • Set bitrate according to the platform: 4500–6000 Kbps for Full HD 60fps.
  • Enable Main or High profiles for better compatibility.

For NVENC

  • Use the “New NVENC” encoder in OBS Studio or Streamlabs.
  • Set “Quality” or “Max Quality” depending on GPU power.
  • Enable “Look-ahead” for dynamic scenes and smooth motion.

Conclusion

The choice of codec depends on your hardware, streaming goals, and audience preferences. x264 is suitable for those seeking maximum quality and having a powerful CPU. NVENC is optimal for reducing CPU load while maintaining stable streaming, especially for graphically demanding games.

For most modern streamers, a sensible strategy is to test both codecs, adjust bitrates and presets to find the balance between video quality and hardware performance.

The right codec choice makes your stream more professional, stable, and appealing to viewers. Whether you choose x264 or NVENC, the main thing is to adapt the settings to your equipment and audience needs.