I'd love to speedrun ETS2 but the requirement of a video is a roadblock for me. I only have a dual-core 4.1 ghz processor (an overclocked AMD A6-6400k), so trying to record isn't a great experience. Unfortunately, when I'm recording it takes about 10-15 seconds longer to load in ETS2, which can kill the runs. Is there a way to optimize OBS (my recording software) to not interfere like this?

The best way is probably to record in a lower resolution and turn all the settings in-game to the lowest quality. It also helps to use window capture rather than screen capture on OBS.

Ok, thanks. I have already lowered the settings in-game to the lowest setting, and the resolution is just above 480p, which is the lowest I am willing to go (anything else looks ugly). Right now I am using game capture.

I have the same problem but basically i have a 2.00Ghz x1 Core Athlon II 170u, 4Gb of DDR2 Ram and a GTX 650. Same Suggestion or something different

A 650 should be good enough for ETS2, but i always play on the lowest setting cause you get better load times too.

You could use old recording programs like Fraps, but your loading times will probably even worse than with OBS. Maybe use timer without loads as the default timer? You know, there will always be someone with a faster PC, who can take your record, so RTA timing is quite unfair.