NDI Streaming Setup Guide
Use NDI to move video and audio across your network for cleaner dual-PC and multi-source setups.
NDI, short for Network Device Interface, lets you send low-latency audio and video over your local network. It can be a strong alternative to a capture card when you want a flexible dual-PC setup or need to move multiple sources between machines.
Requirements
Software
- OBS Studio (installed on both PCs)
- OBS-NDI Plugin (Palakis version on GitHub)
- NDI Runtime Installer (required for plugin functionality)
Hardware
- Two PCs on the same network, with wired Ethernet strongly recommended
- Gigabit Ethernet for smooth high-bitrate transfers
- Router or switch capable of handling heavy bandwidth
Installation & Setup
1. Install NDI Plugin on Both PCs
- Download and install the latest OBS-NDI plugin.
- Complete setup on both the Gaming PC (source) and Streaming PC (receiver).
- Install the NewTek NDI Runtime when prompted.
2. Enable NDI Output on the Gaming PC
- Open OBS Studio on the Gaming PC.
- Go to Tools > NDI Output Settings.
- Enable Main Output and give it a recognizable name (e.g., GamingPC-OBS).
- Ensure your game scene is active in OBS.
3. Add the NDI Source on the Streaming PC
- Open OBS Studio on the Streaming PC.
- Add a new NDI Source.
- Select the NDI stream you named (GamingPC-OBS).
- The gameplay and audio should now appear live.
Audio Management
- NDI transmits audio with video automatically.
- Ensure Desktop Audio is active in your Gaming PC's OBS scene.
- If sync issues occur, adjust using Network Sync Offset or OBS's audio sync settings.
Tips for Performance & Sync
- Use Gigabit Ethernet to reduce latency.
- Match resolution and FPS across both OBS instances.
- Disable preview on the Gaming PC to save resources.
- Adjust the NDI bandwidth mode (Low/Medium/High) according to network stability.
Capture Card vs NDI
| Use Case | Capture Card | NDI |
|---|---|---|
| High visual fidelity | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Wireless/networked workflows | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Lowest latency (competitive gaming) | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Moderate |
| Multi-PC / multi-camera production | ✅ Complex | ✅ Simple |
| Additional hardware required | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (software) |
Final Recommendations
For creators who want flexibility without getting the extra hardware.