How to Reduce File Sizes
Large recording files are almost always the result of recording settings or recording more footage than needed.
By lowering a few key settings and using OBS’s built‑in hotkeys to pause when nothing important is happening, you can dramatically reduce file sizes without sacrificing meaningful quality.
1. Reducing Recording Resolution
Left-click “file” on the top left of OBS
Left-click settings within the menu, and a pop-out window will open.
Go to the video section and lower the fps to the desired amount.
2. Using Hotkeys
Binding your recording controls to a hotkey lets you start, pause, and resume recording instantly, so you only record when necessary. This avoids capturing downtime and keeps your recordings shorter and smaller without reducing quality.
The steps to set up these hotkeys are provided below.
A. Settings
In the top left corner of OBS left click on File. Left click on Settings in the dropdown menu.
B. Hotkeys
Left click on the Hotkeys section. This will be located on the left side of the pop-up window.
C. Creating Hotkeys
You can create shortcuts for different OBS commands by clicking the boxes next to the command and pressing the desired keys at the same time.
D. Applying Changes
Make sure to select Apply at the bottom right of the window or the settings will not be saved.
Note: These hotkeys (keyboard shortcuts) will still activate even if the application is not on the screen, by default. To prevent accidental recordings you should use more complex hotkeys such as CTRL + SHIFT + SPACE to make sure the hotkeys are not accidentally pressed. If the hotkey is multiple buttons, they all have to be pressed at the same time, not sequentially.