Data bandwidth for livestreaming video

January 6, 2021

In general, livestream data bandwidth depends on the video content (lots of motion vs. talking head) and wireless conditions.

YouTube Live has a wide range of livestreaming modes. Consider 480p to start to keep the connection from dropping out, with data bandwidth of 500 - 2,000 kbps ~ 16 Mbyte/minute. Use variable bitrate to dramatically reduce upload bandwith needed for typical livestreaming scenes. OBS Studio is among streaming software supporting HLS for ease and robustness or low latency RTMPS.