When setting up a stream, one of the most important encoding choices is whether to use constant bitrate or variable bitrate. For most live streaming setups, CBR is the safer default.
What is CBR?
CBR keeps bitrate steady throughout the stream.
What is VBR?
VBR changes bitrate based on scene complexity.
Which is better for live streaming?
For most platforms, CBR is better because it gives more predictable network behavior and platform compatibility.
See also our OBS bitrate guide and Twitch bitrate guide.