How Much Disk Space Do You Need to Record a Full Match?

Estimate space from a representative recording

Before recording a full match, measure how quickly a test file grows on the drive you will actually use. Multiply that rate by the whole capture window, then allow for additional copies and other work on the computer. Free disk space is the capacity to store files; available memory is a different constraint. Check both, but do not use a memory reading as your storage budget.

Make the sample with the planned camera inputs, resolution, recording settings and simultaneous streaming setup. Include movement on the pitch rather than only a static holding screen. Record its duration and file size after stopping normally. This is a planning sample, not proof that every minute of the match will have the same size.

Work through a disk budget

Consider this hypothetical example, using decimal gigabytes consistently. A 10-minute sample occupies 1.2 GB. The planned capture lasts 150 minutes, including the pre-match opening, halftime and post-match interview.

• Sample rate: 1.2 GB divided by 10 minutes equals 0.12 GB per minute.
• Estimated recording: 0.12 GB multiplied by 150 minutes equals 18 GB.
• Keeping that recording and a separate copy of similar size requires about 36 GB before other working space.

Do not treat 36 GB free as a safe universal threshold. Leave additional room for changing file growth, editing files, software caches and the operating system. Check whether your file manager reports GB or GiB, and keep the units consistent when comparing the estimate with available capacity. Repeat the sample after changing recording settings.

If the estimate is too close to available space, resolve it before kickoff: move unrelated files only after verifying their copies, choose a drive with sufficient capacity, or test a lower recording setting that still shows the action clearly. Do not solve a disk warning by deleting the only recording of an earlier event.

Include the export or remux step

OBS provides a Remux Recordings command in its File menu. If your workflow creates a separate output file with that command, budget for the source and output to coexist. Do the same for an editor export. Do not assume that preparing a new format will immediately free the original file's space.

Before the event, process a short sample through the exact preparation route you intend to use. Open the result and check picture, sound and the ending. Record the size of the resulting file as well as the source. If they differ substantially, use those measured sizes rather than the similar-size assumption in the example.

Check the actual destination before kickoff

Give the recording volunteer a short handoff they can repeat on the event computer:

• Confirm the selected recording folder and the drive that contains it.
• Read free space on that drive after connecting all equipment and opening the production software.
• Record and stop a brief test, then locate and play the saved file.
• Agree who will monitor capacity during the event and what to do if the reserve shrinks unexpectedly.
• Keep the estimate, expected capture duration and backup destination in the event notes.

A drive with sufficient capacity still needs to work reliably with the chosen setup. This checklist is a storage planning method, not a guarantee against a cable failure, interrupted recording or overloaded computer.

Keep the source until the replay is checked

Pleymeikel Labs supports organizing your videos. For a club preparing its catalog, use a clear local filename and retain the original while preparing and checking the version intended for viewers. Watch the beginning, a middle section and the ending of that version before making a cleanup decision.

Only reclaim working space after the responsible person confirms which copy is being retained and where it can be opened. That makes the next recording session easier to prepare without turning a storage shortage into a lost match.