October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
DocumentaryTube
Admit one · Blog

How to Set Up Overlays for Vertical and Horizontal Live Streams

A practical guide to separate portrait and landscape overlay layouts in OBS and Streamlabs Desktop, including setup steps, scene linking, and troubleshooting.
Opened Runtime6 min Written byDocumentaryTube Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Build a separate layout for each orientation, then preview both before you go live. In OBS, Aitum Vertical adds a portrait canvas with its own scenes and sources; Streamlabs Desktop has a separate Dual Output workflow for YouTube. A landscape overlay rarely fits a portrait frame without adjustment, so treat the two previews as distinct compositions.

Choose a workflow before building the overlays

Use OBS with Aitum Vertical if you want a separate portrait canvas and scene/source setup inside OBS. Use Streamlabs Desktop Dual Output if you prefer its built-in controls for sending portrait and landscape versions to YouTube. These are different workflows: installing the Streamlabs plugin in OBS does not enable Streamlabs Desktop’s Dual Output feature.

Workflow Overlay and scene handling Important limitation
OBS with Aitum Vertical A separate vertical canvas has its own scenes and sources; corresponding scenes can be linked. Linked scene changes flow from the horizontal scene to the portrait scene, not the other way around. Check current plugin compatibility before installing.
Streamlabs Desktop Dual Output Enable Dual Output under Settings → Video, then adjust elements in portrait and landscape previews. Streamlabs documents using its overlay options or custom scene elements. Portrait output from third-party streaming software may not be detected for YouTube Shorts feed placement. Feature availability and orientation differences can change.

For an OBS plugin install, the OBS Forums listing identifies Aitum Vertical 1.6.4, minimum OBS Studio 29.0.0, and Windows, macOS, and Linux support; the listing was last updated May 21, 2026. Check the current release notes and your operating system before installing: OBS Forums: Aitum Vertical. Aitum’s product and setup documentation is at Aitum Vertical and Aitum setup guides.

Set up portrait and landscape scenes in OBS

  1. Check compatibility. Confirm that the currently available Aitum Vertical build supports your OBS version and operating system. Close OBS before installing the plugin, then reopen OBS.
  2. Open the vertical controls. In OBS, use View → Docks to enable Aitum’s vertical scenes and sources docks.
  3. Create portrait scenes. Make a portrait version for each show state you need, such as starting, live gameplay, chatting, and break. Add the webcam, display or game capture, and overlay elements to the portrait composition. Aitum’s guide says existing sources can be reused in the vertical canvas.
  4. Keep matching landscape scenes. Create or retain the equivalent scenes on the horizontal canvas. Link each portrait scene to its corresponding landscape scene using the vertical scene’s linked-scenes control.
  5. Test which canvas controls scene changes. Change scenes on the main horizontal canvas and confirm the intended portrait scene follows. Aitum’s scene linking is one-way: changing a vertical scene directly does not switch the horizontal canvas. If you use a Stream Deck or another control method, make sure it changes the horizontal scene when you want both layouts to follow.
  6. Configure destinations and outputs. Set the vertical destination and stream key in the vertical settings as appropriate. If using Aitum Multistream, configure the output for each destination. Aitum’s guide says outputs can have individual bitrates, encoders, and audio tracks; start with two destinations and check upload stability before adding more. There is no universal bitrate or upload-speed figure established for every setup.
  7. Inspect both previews. Check that text is legible, alerts and chat do not obscure important content, and webcam or game capture framing works in each orientation. Adjust portrait elements independently rather than assuming a landscape placement will translate.

Aitum describes the separate canvas, linked scenes, and output configuration in its product documentation and setup guide.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
RGBlink Mini V3 Video Switcher with Customizable Features via TAO Cloud – 4K HDMI Switcher, 2.1" Touch Screen, Multi-Cam Live Streaming, Dual HDMI Output, Recording & PTZ Control
  • Flexible TAO Cloud Activation – Unlock premium functions via monthly or lifetime plans (not exceeding $100 total lifetime cost). Choose and pay only for the features you need, including PTZ control, Record and Chroma key, logo overlay .
  • Step for ACTIVATION – Upgrade your Mini V3 to the LASTEST FRIMWARE before use. Connect the device to the internet with a Ethernet network cable. On the menu of Mini V3, go to Settings → IP Setting, enable DHCP, and wait for the device to receive an IP address. Then go to Settings → TAO Cloud, follow on‑screen instructions to get a verification code, log in to your TAO Cloud account, and bind the Mini V3. For full details, see the USER MANUAL.
  • Compact 4K Video Switcher – Mini V3 features 4Ă— HDMI inputs, 2 x1080P HDMI output, a 2.1" touch screen, and professional T-bar control, making it the ideal video switcher for live streaming and multi-cam productions.
  • Dual HDMI Output & UVC Webcam Mode – Stream with dual HDMI outputs for program and preview, or connect via UVC for instant webcam recognition on YouTube, Facebook, and other platforms. Perfect as an HDMI switcher and 4K switcher. NOTE: For stable UVC streaming with OBS on Mac or PC, use the included USB 3.0 cable.
  • HD Recording & Creative Effects – Record directly to USB drives up to 2TB, add PIP layouts, chroma key overlays, and 15 transition effects. Recording and selected advanced features are activated via optional TAO Cloud licensing. A versatile video switcher with touch screen 2.1" for entry-level content creation.

Use Streamlabs Desktop Dual Output for YouTube

  1. In Streamlabs Desktop, open Settings → Video and enable Dual Output.
  2. Use the portrait and landscape previews to adjust elements separately. An overlay is optional; if a graphic does not work in both frames, use separate layout variants or separately positioned elements.
  3. Configure YouTube as the native destination for one orientation and an RTMP destination for the other, following the current in-app destination requirements.
  4. Go live privately or otherwise test the actual output, and confirm both orientations appear as intended.

These steps follow Streamlabs’ guide dated July 15, 2024; software screens and platform policies can change. The guide warns that third-party portrait streams may not be detected for the Shorts feed, so a vertical picture on a phone does not guarantee a particular YouTube feed placement. It also notes that some features differ between orientations. See Streamlabs’ Dual Output guide.

Add overlay files or build the elements yourself

Import an overlay in Streamlabs Desktop

Streamlabs’ February 6, 2026 help article documents importing an existing .overlay file through Settings → Scene Collections → Import Overlay File. For a manual layout, create a scene collection, add scenes, and add image files as sources.

Rank #2
CineTreak Mixer Plus 4-Channel HDMI Video Switcher with 4.5-Inch LCD
  • BUILT-IN 4.5-INCH MULTIVIEW DISPLAY: Monitor all four HDMI inputs, Program, Preview, resolution status, and audio levels directly on the integrated screen. The compact all-in-one design reduces the need for a separate production monitor.
  • 4-CHANNEL HDMI SWITCHING: Connect and switch between up to four HDMI video sources with 30 adjustable transition effects, including Mix and DIP. Landscape and portrait production modes support traditional broadcasts and vertical social media content.
  • PTZ CONTROL AND PRODUCTION TOOLS: Control up to four compatible PTZ cameras through VISCA over IP, with four position presets available for each camera. Chroma key, luma key, PIP, DSK, and logo overlay tools help create polished live productions.
  • USB 3.0 UVC LIVE STREAMING: Send uncompressed HD video to a computer through the USB 3.0 UVC connection for use with OBS and other UVC-compatible streaming or conferencing software. No separate USB capture card is required.
  • FLEXIBLE VIDEO AND AUDIO WORKFLOW: Assign the AUX HDMI output to IN1–IN4, PGM, Clean PGM, PVW, Clean PVW, PAT, or Multi View for recording and monitoring. Two 3.5 mm audio inputs and a headphone output support external audio sources and real-time monitoring.

Use Streamlabs overlays with OBS

Streamlabs documents installing its OBS plugin and selecting an overlay, or importing a Streamlabs scene collection without the plugin. The plugin route is not the same as Streamlabs Desktop Dual Output: Streamlabs’ plugin guide, updated September 28, 2026, says Dual Output is not available through the plugin. Its guide also notes that TikTok desktop streaming may require access and will appear horizontally. Check the current instructions before relying on either route.

Read Streamlabs’ overlay instructions and the Streamlabs OBS plugin guide. Before using an overlay pack, check whether it includes layouts for both aspect ratios and review its license terms.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sehawei N4 Pro Macro Pad, 10-Key LCD Shortcut Keyboard
  • ONE-TOUCH MACRO & CUSTOM HOTKEYS: Eliminate repetitive tasks instantly. Launch apps, files, system commands, or input text/GIFs with a single press. Create multi-step workflows (e.g., stream setup, editing shortcuts) without coding.
  • 10 LCD KEYS & 4 SMART KNOBS: Fully customizable with GIF-supported icons. Features 10 LCD keys, 4 RGB backlit knobs (with touch displays), and an editable TouchBar per scene for unlimited layout and dynamic visual control.
  • 500+ PLUGIN ECOSYSTEM: Seamlessly integrate with OBS, Discord, Spotify, and more. Includes utilities like clock, weather, and calendar for all productivity and streaming needs.
  • PREMIUM BUILD WITH DESKTOP HUB: Carbon-fiber-like overlay with toggleable key haptics. Built-in 2Ă— USB 3.0 + 1Ă— USB-C non-powered hub for style and practicality.
  • ERGONOMIC & PLUG-AND-PLAY: Includes an adjustable stand for optimal viewing. Cross-platform support for Windows 10+ and macOS 11.0+ via USB-C for instant setup.

Check routing, presentation, and platform behavior

  • Verify each destination. Confirm that the chosen platform accepts the output path and stream key you configured. Streamlabs’ YouTube method uses native integration for one orientation and RTMP for the other; confirm current destination requirements in the app and on YouTube.
  • Check each orientation as a viewer sees it. Confirm that important text, faces, captions, alerts, and documentary footage remain visible and unobstructed in both live outputs.
  • Do not infer feed placement from aspect ratio. A portrait stream may not be surfaced in YouTube’s Shorts feed, particularly when sent through third-party software.
  • Check rights for everything on screen and in the audio. Use footage, music, images, and overlay assets only when you have the rights or permission required for your use. A live format does not remove copyright obligations.

Troubleshoot common setup problems

Symptom Likely cause What to check
Portrait scene does not change when the landscape scene changes The scene is not linked to its landscape counterpart, or the wrong linked scene was selected. Check the vertical scene’s linked-scenes control and test a change on the main horizontal canvas.
Changing the portrait scene does not change the landscape scene Aitum’s linked-scene control works one way. Make scene changes on the horizontal canvas when you need the linked portrait scene to follow.
Overlay fits landscape but is cropped or too small in portrait The layouts have different aspect ratios and composition needs. Reposition or resize the element in the portrait preview, or use a separate portrait variant.
One destination drops frames or the upload becomes unstable Multiple outputs increase network and encoding demands; settings may not suit the connection or system. Start with two destinations, review each output’s bitrate and encoder settings, and check upload stability before adding destinations. No single setting is right for every connection.
Portrait broadcast is not appearing in the Shorts feed Third-party portrait output is not guaranteed to be detected or placed there. Check the actual YouTube live result and current platform requirements; do not treat portrait dimensions as a placement guarantee.
Streamlabs plugin does not show Dual Output controls Dual Output belongs to Streamlabs Desktop’s workflow, not the OBS plugin. Use Streamlabs Desktop Dual Output or choose an OBS-specific vertical workflow such as Aitum Vertical.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Or let it run in the cloud

If your goal is a YouTube channel that stays live from uploaded recordings, rather than a live camera or gameplay production, StreamNeo is a separate cloud option: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It loops the uploaded video from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. Each slot streams what you upload at any quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, and it automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. It streams to YouTube only and does not broadcast from a camera. Start a free day at StreamNeo registration.

Best Value
FEELWORLD L1 Plus Multi-Camera Video Mixer Switcher Touch Screen USB2.0 Recording PTZ Control USB3.0 Fast Streaming 2" TFT Touch Screen T-BAR Switching
  • The FEELWORLD L1 PLUS is a mini live switcher that is easy to carry around. It has a 2-inch TFT touch screen with iconized touch screen control, and can also monitor the input signal
  • PTZ camera to control the screen focus; LOGO overlay, chroma keying to create a wonderful studio. Five-way joystick, easy to control PTZ rotation, picture-in-picture position, logo overlay size
  • USB 2.0 real-time recording; USB 3.0 fast push streaming, simple and easy to use, making live broadcasting more convenient
  • FEELWORLD L1 PLUS 14 transitions and 8 PIP modes to bring the live feed to life and T-Bar to easily switch transitions and sources
  • Support HDMI embedded audio and external audio mixing, support audio delay adjustment;Remote control via PC/smartphone APP

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Screening Room

  1. YouTube Encoder Keeps Reconnecting After a VPS Network Reset: Recovery SettingsAdmit one · BlogYouTube Encoder Keeps Reconnecting After a VPS Network Reset: Recovery SettingsOpened04 OCT 2026Runtime4 min
  2. How to Add a Countdown Timer to a YouTube Live StreamAdmit one · BlogHow to Add a Countdown Timer to a YouTube Live StreamOpened04 OCT 2026Runtime4 min
  3. How to Migrate a 24/7 YouTube Stream to a New VPSAdmit one · BlogHow to Migrate a 24/7 YouTube Stream to a New VPSOpened04 OCT 2026Runtime6 min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.