How to set up Moonlight with Sunshine on Ubuntu?

Install Sunshine on your host PC following its documentation, then configure Moonlight client to connect via IP. Ensure both are on the same network and that your GPU supports codecs like AV1 for optimal performance.

Moonlight vs Steam Remote Play: which is better for low latency?

Moonlight often has lower latency due to hardware-acceleration and advanced codecs, but requires a compatible host. Steam Remote Play is more integrated with Steam but may sacrifice some performance for convenience.

Does Moonlight work without an NVIDIA GPU?

Yes, using the open-source Sunshine server, you can stream from non-NVIDIA GPUs. However, features like AV1 codec support depend on host hardware, and GameStream is NVIDIA-only.

How to fix audio sync issues in Moonlight?

Adjust audio settings in Moonlight to match host bitrate and codec, ensure network stability with a wired connection, and check that both client and host support the same audio formats like 7.1 surround.

Can Moonlight stream in 4K resolution?

Yes, on compatible clients like Windows or Linux desktops, but ensure your host GPU and network bandwidth can handle it. Note that Steam Link hardware is limited to 1080p as per the README.

Moonlight Qt build error on Windows with MinGW?

Moonlight does not support MinGW; use MSVC with Visual Studio 2022 and Qt 6.7 SDK as specified in the build requirements. Check that 7-Zip is installed if creating installers.

Open-Awesome

Moonlight

GPL-3.0C++v6.1.0

An open-source PC client for streaming games and desktop from NVIDIA GameStream and Sunshine servers.

GitHub

17.5k stars1.1k forks0 contributors

What is Moonlight?

Moonlight PC is an open-source game streaming client for PCs that allows users to stream games and desktop sessions from a host computer running NVIDIA GameStream or Sunshine. It enables low-latency, high-quality remote play across Windows, macOS, Linux, and Steam Link devices, turning any compatible device into a gaming or remote desktop terminal.

Target Audience

Gamers and users who want to stream games or access their desktop remotely from a host PC, especially those using NVIDIA GPUs with GameStream or the open-source Sunshine server on various client platforms.

Value Proposition

Developers choose Moonlight PC for its open-source nature, cross-platform support, and feature-rich implementation including HDR, surround sound, and advanced codec support, providing a free alternative to proprietary streaming solutions with active community development.

Overview

GameStream client for PCs (Windows, Mac, Linux, and Steam Link)

Use Cases

Best For

Streaming games from an NVIDIA GameStream-enabled PC to another computer
Using Sunshine server for open-source game streaming to various client devices
Remote desktop access with low latency and high-quality video streaming
Playing games on a Steam Link device via game streaming
Multi-player local gaming with support for up to 16 gamepads
HDR game streaming from a compatible host to a client device

Not Ideal For

Users seeking a standalone streaming server without a client-host model
Streaming to Steam Link hardware requiring HDR or above 1080p resolution
Projects needing all advanced features like YUV 4:4:4 with NVIDIA GameStream (Sunshine-only)
Teams wanting a zero-configuration, out-of-the-box streaming solution

Pros & Cons

Pros

Hardware-Accelerated Performance

Leverages GPU decoding on Windows, Mac, and Linux for efficient video playback, reducing CPU load and improving latency as highlighted in the README.

Broad Codec & Feature Support

Supports H.264, HEVC, and AV1 codecs, along with HDR and 7.1 surround sound, enabling high-quality streaming experiences, though AV1 requires Sunshine.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Steam Link, and even ARM/RISC-V devices, with multiple distribution formats like Snap, Flatpak, and AppImage.

Open-Source Flexibility

Free and open-source with active community development, translations via Weblate, and support for customization through building from source.

Cons

Host Dependency

Requires a host PC running NVIDIA GameStream or Sunshine, which may not be feasible for users without compatible hardware or who prefer all-in-one solutions.

Complex Build Requirements

Building from source involves platform-specific dependencies like Qt SDK, Visual Studio, or FFmpeg, with detailed steps that can be daunting for casual users.

Hardware-Specific Limitations

On devices like Steam Link, streaming is capped at 1080p/60fps with no HDR support, and some features are exclusive to Sunshine, as noted in the README.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Projects

LocalSend

An open-source cross-platform alternative to AirDrop

Stars82,973

Forks4,496

Last commit3 days ago

Sunshine

Self-hosted game stream host for Moonlight.

Multi-platform app that allows your devices to communicate

Stars3,735

Forks257