OBS Studio Playbook
Add a countdown timer to OBS. No plugin.
OBS already includes the timer. Here is where it hides, how to connect it to a text source, and how to reset it with one key.
Watch the Short
The hidden timer in under a minute.
The video shows the fast path. The complete setup, reset options, and fixes are below.
Why use the built-in timer?
Skip the plugin hunt.
For a simple Starting Soon countdown, the script already installed with OBS is the shortest path. You keep the timer inside your scene and avoid another download to maintain.
Third-party route
Find, install, and trust a plugin
Useful for advanced timers, but unnecessary for a basic countdown.
Built-in route
Load countdown.lua
Already included with OBS Studio and connected to a normal text source.
Easiest path — 3 moves
Text source. Script. Reset key.
- 1Add a Text source to your scene
- 2Load countdown.lua in Tools → Scripts
- 3Set a Reset Timer hotkey
One-time setup
Set it up step by step.
Step 01
Add the text OBS will update
In the Sources panel, select + and add Text (GDI+). Give it a clear name such as Countdown Timer, type any temporary text, and select OK. On Mac or Linux, use the Text (FreeType 2) source instead.
Step 02
Load the included countdown script
Open Tools → Scripts, select the + button, and choose the file named countdown.lua. It is included with OBS Studio, so this method does not require a plugin or separate download.
Step 03
Connect and configure the timer
Select your Countdown Timer text source in the script settings. Enter the duration in minutes and choose the message OBS should show when the timer reaches zero, such as Starting Soon or We’re Live.
Step 04
Make the timer readable
Open the text source properties and choose a bold font, useful size, and strong contrast. Place the source above your camera or background source so viewers can see it.
Step 05
Restart it when you need it
Hide the text source, then show it again to restart the countdown. For a faster reset, open Settings → Hotkeys, search for Reset Timer, and assign a key you will not press by accident.
Before you go live
Run this 30-second check.
- The countdown.lua script appears in Tools → Scripts
- The script’s Text Source field points to your timer text
- Your duration and message at zero are set
- The timer source sits above the background in Sources
- Your reset hotkey works before you start streaming
What to customize
Make the built-in version yours.
Want the custom version?
I had Claude build a branded countdown that turns red during the final ten seconds and changes when I go live. That requires a custom timer, but start with the built-in version first so you know exactly what behavior you want to improve.
See how I build custom OBS overlaysTroubleshooting
If the timer does not work.
FAQ
OBS timer questions.
More practical streaming setups.
I test the simple route first, then show what is actually worth customizing.
Behind the video
The gear I use to make these.
Everything here is sitting in my office right now. If you buy through an Amazon link, I earn a small commission — it helps the channel, and costs you nothing extra.
Sony Alpha a5000
Compact mirrorless camera for talking-head videos.
View on Amazon →Elgato Facecam
Dedicated webcam when I don't want to rig the mirrorless.
View on Amazon →Elgato Key Light
Bright, dimmable, computer-controlled key light.
View on Amazon →Elgato Stream Deck +
One-press control for lights, scenes, and apps.
View on Amazon →Elgato Wave:3 Mic
Clean mic for voiceovers and screen recordings.
View on Amazon →DJI Mic Mini
Wireless lav mic for away-from-desk shots.
View on Amazon →Elgato Prompter
Built-in screen so I can read while looking at the lens.
View on Amazon →Meross Smart Plug
Reliable HomeKit smart plugs for fans and lamps.
View on Amazon →Govee Smart Bulbs
Color Wi-Fi bulbs with app and voice control.
View on Amazon →EMART Umbrella Lights
Budget-friendly fill lights for even coverage.
View on Amazon →Amazon Associates disclosure: I earn from qualifying purchases. I only list gear I own and use.