When an OBS recording seems missing, check the path OBS currently uses before searching every drive. A different profile or portable install can point elsewhere, and an MKV may still survive even if recording ended unexpectedly.
Verify the newest file instead of memorizing a default
Open Settings > Output > Recording and read Recording Path. Stop recording before using Browse to choose a writable local folder. Cloud-synced, network, and slow removable destinations need a short load test because the folder can exist while sustained writes still fail.
Where to look when the file is missing
| Situation | Check first | Proof of a fix |
|---|---|---|
| Not in the usual folder | Recording Path | Absolute path for the active profile |
| File is zero bytes | Free space and write permission | A five-second file closes normally |
| MKV exists; MP4 needed | File > Remux Recordings | MP4 created while preserving the original |
| New path stutters | Drive speed and sync software | Repeatable local-SSD test |
Find and change the location safely
- 1Copy the current path — Copy the full Recording Path from Settings > Output > Recording into the File Explorer address bar.
- 2Sort by modification time — Match the latest filename to the moment you started and stopped recording.
- 3Prepare a local folder — Choose a writable SSD location with enough space; avoid sync and network folders for the first test.
- 4Stop, then change the path — Use Browse, apply the change, reopen OBS, and confirm the value persisted.
- 5Record and remux a test — Play a five-second MKV, preserve it, and use File > Remux Recordings when MP4 is required.
Location-change checklist
- The full Recording Path was recorded
- Recording was stopped before changing the path
- The folder is writable and has enough space
- A five-second MKV plays normally
- Any MP4 was remuxed while preserving the original
File management when considering DOR
DOR does not change the OBS Recording Path or locate old OBS files. It is an alternative library workflow for future supported-game recordings. Compare change recording location, OBS game recording settings, the free recorder guide, and DOR automatic recording. For a real game use case, continue to the VALORANT game hub.
Official OBS Studio recording guidance
The OBS Standard Recording Output Guide documents Recording Path, resilient MKV recording, File > Remux Recordings, and automatic remux. If a crash or shutdown is possible, recording MKV and remuxing later is safer than relying on an unfinished MP4.
