OBS on UbuntuHello everyone, unlocking top-tier broadcasting on Ubuntu 24.04 is a easy with OBS Studio. This free, open-source gem is a must-try for streaming and recording, perfect for gamers, creators, and pros alike.
OBS Studio often flies under the radar compared to paid options like Lightstream or Wirecast, but it’s backed by giants like Twitch, Nvidia, and Facebook for a reason.
I recently tested it myself (after a nudge from a reader’s comment on our pretty old Facebook post), it even works smoothly on Zorin OS, thanks to its Ubuntu roots.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll show you how to install OBS Studio, explore its standout features, and share why it’s our top pick for Ubuntu users. Let’s dive in.
How to Install OBS Studio on Ubuntu 24.04
You can install OBS Studio on Ubuntu 24.04 via GUI, APT, Snap, Flatpak, or AppImage, each method offers a fast path to streaming glory.
Method 1: Installing OBS Studio via GUI
Love a point-and-click setup? Here’s how to grab OBS Studio using Ubuntu’s interface.
Step 1: Choose your download source:
- 🌐 Official Website (AppImage and other formats)
- 📦 Flathub (Flatpak package)
- 🐧 Snapcraft (Snap package)
Step 2: Open the link in Ubuntu Software Center, click “Install,” or download the AppImage and double-click to run.
Step 3: Launch OBS Studio from your applications menu.
Quick Tip: 💡 Snap auto-updates, ideal for always having the latest version.
Method 2: Installing OBS Studio with APT via Terminal
Step 1: Open your terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T).
Step 2: Ensure FFmpeg is installed (required for recording/streaming):
sudo apt install ffmpeg
Step 3: Add the OBS PPA and install:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:obsproject/obs-studio sudo apt update sudo apt install obs-studio
Step 4: Launch it with obs-studio or from the menu.
Quick Tip: 💡 Run sudo apt upgrade first to ensure FFmpeg compatibility.
Method 3: Installing OBS Studio with Snap via Terminal
Step 1: Open your terminal.
Step 2: Install OBS Studio via Snap:
sudo snap install obs-studio
Step 3: Launch it from the menu or obs-studio.
Quick Tip: 💡 Grant camera/mic permissions post-install via snap connect.
How to Upgrade OBS Studio on Ubuntu 24.04
Keep OBS Studio fresh with the latest streaming features, here’s how.
Method 1: Upgrading via GUI
Step 1: Open Ubuntu Software Center.
Step 2: Go to “Installed,” find “OBS Studio.”
Step 3: Click “Update” if available (Snap/Flatpak).
Quick Tip: 💡 Check the “About” menu in OBS to confirm the version.
Method 2: Upgrading via Terminal
Step 1: Open your terminal.
Step 2: For APT:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade obs-studio
Step 3: For Snap:
sudo snap refresh obs-studio
Quick Tip: 💡 Restart OBS after upgrading to apply changes.
What Makes OBS Studio Special
OBS Studio is a free, open-source powerhouse launched in 2012, built with C, C++, and Qt for capturing, recording, and streaming video. Backed by Twitch, Nvidia, and Facebook, it’s a top choice for gamers and creators on Ubuntu 24.04.
Why We Love It: It’s free yet rivals paid tools like Wirecast, with a vibrant community driving constant updates, perfect for pros and newbies alike.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Capture: Mix video/audio with sources like webcams, windows, and capture cards.
- Scene Flexibility: Unlimited scenes with seamless custom transitions.
- Audio Mastery: Per-source filters (noise gate, suppression) plus VST plugin support.
- Config Power: Add, duplicate, and tweak sources effortlessly.
- Custom UI: Modular docks you can pop out or rearrange.
OBS Studio Screenshots
OBS Studio Video
System Requirements
- CPU: AMD FX series or Intel i5 2000-series (dual or 4-core preferred).
- RAM: At least 4GB.
- GPU: DirectX 10 or OpenGL 3.3 compatible.
Quick Tip
💡 Start with a simple scene (webcam + desktop) to test OBS Studio’s setup wizard, it’s a game-changer for beginners.
How to Uninstall OBS Studio from Ubuntu 24.04
Switching tools? Here’s how to remove OBS Studio cleanly.
Method 1: Uninstalling via GUI
Step 1: Open Ubuntu Software Center.
Step 2: Find “OBS Studio” under “Installed.”
Step 3: Click “Remove” and confirm.
Quick Tip: 💡 Check “Installed” to confirm it’s Snap or Flatpak.
Method 2: Uninstalling via Terminal
Step 1: Open your terminal.
Step 2: For APT:
sudo apt remove --purge obs-studio
Step 3: For Snap:
sudo snap remove obs-studio
Step 4: Clear config files:
rm -rf ~/.config/obs-studio
Quick Tip: 💡 Use ls ~/.config/ to spot leftover files.
Troubleshooting OBS Studio
Not Launching? Update your system:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
Recording Issues? Ensure FFmpeg is installed (sudo apt install ffmpeg) and check your audio/video sources in OBS settings.
For more help, visit OBS Forums or r/obs.
Why Choose OBS Studio?
OBS Studio stands out for its zero-cost power, outpacing pricier rivals with a community that’s got your back. Whether you’re streaming on Twitch or recording tutorials, it’s the Ubuntu broadcaster to beat.
More Ubuntu Goodies
Explore our lists of the best media players, best free AI tools on Ubuntu, and best file managers on Ubuntu.
What’s your take on OBS Studio? Tried it yet? Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments, I’m here to help!
