You must meet certain hardware, software, and network requirements to ensure that your Socialive broadcast is produced with the highest video and audio quality. In this article, we will go over the following topics:
Minimum Computer Requirements
If you need help finding your system specifications, follow these steps for both PC and Mac.
What You Need | Studio Host | Chrome Guest |
Hardware | PC or Mac (Macbook Pro 14" or 16") | PC or Mac |
Operating System | Minimum
Recommended
| |
Upload Speed |
| |
Browser |
| |
Browser Version | Latest version | |
Processor (CPU) | Minimum
Recommended
| Minimum
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Memory (RAM) | Minimum
Recommended
Preferred
| Minimum
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Graphics Card (GPU) | Recommended
Computers with integrated GPUs are NOT recommended. | N/A |
Older MacBook Pro 13" and MacBook Air models that do not have an M series chip are NOT recommended for producers. This is due to the lack of a dedicated graphics card and slower processors. It MAY be possible that newer models without M series chips can stream one 720p 30FPS camera feed and support up to 1-2 guest streams, but testing is recommended.
By using minimum hardware specifications with great network conditions, it is possible to have 1 stream at 720p 30FPS. Other considerations, such as the number of guests, local recordings, tabs left open in your browser, having Microsoft Teams running simultaneously, etc., will impact the performance and may create quality issues with your video output.
Minimum Mobile Requirements
What You Need | Apple Devices | Android Devices |
Hardware | iPhones
iPads
|
|
Operating System | iOS or iPadOS 13 or above | Android 9 or above |
App | Downloading the Socialive Mobile App | |
App Version | Latest version | Latest version |
NOTE: Older iPhone models (7, 8, XR) may be used. However, given their limited processing power, guests may enter Energy Saver mode quickly after joining a broadcast or face other issues. It is highly recommended to test recording on those devices before the actual recording or broadcast.
Best Practices for Live Streaming
Turn Off WiFi and Connect with Ethernet Whenever Possible
Ensure you are connected to the network by ethernet and have turned off WiFi. WiFi signals may not be consistent enough to support high-definition live streaming.
Close All Non-essential Applications and Browser Tabs
Close any browser tab and application that is not essential to ensure the smoothest possible live stream.
Use an External Webcam
External webcams have more space for lenses and other electronics, typically offering better resolutions, video, and audio.
Use a Headset
Using headphones helps eliminate feedback issues from microphones picking up the computer output.
Use a Computer with a Dedicated Graphics Card
Computers with dedicated graphics cards can usually broadcast smoother, higher-quality video.
Checking Your Network Connection
Check your download and upload speed and latency using speedtest.net.
Checking Your Chrome Browser Version
Follow the instructions in the below support articles to check and keep your browser version up to date:
Still, looking for an answer?
Contact Socialive Support via live chat, email at support@socialive.us, or submit a support ticket.