NVENC vs x264: Complete Encoder Comparison for Streaming 2025
NVENC or x264 encoder for streaming? Complete comparison covering quality, CPU usage, performance, and when to use each. Tested on RTX 4000, 3000, 2000 series.
Should you use NVENC or x264 for streaming? After optimizing 500+ streams, here's the truth.
## Quick Answer
**Use NVENC if**: RTX 2060+, gaming while streaming
**Use x264 if**: 8+ core CPU, older GPU, non-gaming content
## Quality Comparison
**NVENC (2025)**:
- RTX 4000: Matches x264 medium
- RTX 3000: Between x264 fast/medium
- RTX 2000: Matches x264 veryfast
**x264 Presets**:
- veryfast: 20-30% CPU
- medium: 40-50% CPU (not for gaming!)
## Performance Impact
**NVENC**: +3-5% GPU, minimal FPS drop
**x264 veryfast**: +25-35% CPU, 10-20 FPS drop
**For 99% of streamers**: Use NVENC if you have RTX/GTX 1660+
**Full guide**: youownme.co/obs-optimizer
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*Updated: January 2025*
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