FIX: Starting the output failed in OBS Studio. (Solved)

If you cannot record or stream with OSB studio, because of error “Failed to start recording. Starting the output failed”, continue reading below to fix the problem.

Problem details: When clicking the “Start Recording” button to record the screen in OBS Studio, the recording failed to start with error “Start the output failed. Please check the log for details” with the note: “If you are using the NVENC or AMD encoders, make sure your video drivers are up to date“.

After investigating the error and trying different things without success (such as updating the video drivers and uninstalling/reinstalling OBS studio), I found that the solution to the reported problem is to change the Video Encoder in the recording settings to “Software (x264)“.

How to fix OBS Studio error “Failed to start recording. Starting the output failed”.

1. From the File menu, select Settings.

2. Select Output on the left. Then, in right pane, under Recording options, change the Video encoder from “Hardware (QSV, H264)” to “Software (x264)“. When done, click Apply > OK.

3. Now click on Start Recording and the problem should be solved.

That’s it! Let me know if this guide has helped you by leaving your comment about your experience. Please like and share this guide to help others.

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Konstantinos is the founder and administrator of Wintips.org. Since 1995 he works and provides IT support as a computer and network expert to individuals and large companies. He is specialized in solving problems related to Windows or other Microsoft products (Windows Server, Office, Microsoft 365, etc.).

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