You may not need to split the video at all: YouTube accepts uploads up to 256 GB or 12 hours, whichever limit you reach first, for accounts eligible to upload long videos. If your file exceeds a limit or you want chapter-sized installments, FFmpeg can split it; then upload the parts in order and place them in one YouTube playlist.
Check YouTube’s limits before splitting
YouTube requires long-video upload eligibility to upload videos longer than 15 minutes. Its maximum upload size is 256 GB or 12 hours, whichever is less. If your account is not eligible, verify it; YouTube notes that copyright claims or strikes can affect long-video upload eligibility. For files over 20 GB, YouTube’s computer guidance recommends using an up-to-date browser. YouTube’s long-video upload guidance has the current account and upload requirements.
If your source fits both limits, uploading it as one video is usually simpler: there are no separate files to check or playlist order to maintain. If it exceeds 256 GB, YouTube suggests compressing it with video-editing software and names H.264. Choose settings for your source and intended quality rather than assuming one preset suits every video.
Choose boundaries that make sense to viewers
Split at natural breaks—such as the end of a game level, match, or commentary chapter—rather than aiming for arbitrary equal durations. Keep each output comfortably below the applicable upload limit. A playlist can order the separate videos, but clear titles and sensible cut points make the experience easier to follow.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
FFmpeg’s segment muxer can divide a file without re-encoding, but stream-copy cuts are constrained by keyframes. A requested split time may therefore shift to the next suitable keyframe; the segment muxer works best with constant-frame-rate video. If an exact boundary matters, re-encoding with keyframes placed at the desired cut may be necessary. See the FFmpeg segment muxer documentation.
Split the file with FFmpeg
There is no single command guaranteed to fit every source: codecs, container, audio and subtitle streams, and boundary requirements differ. The general approach is to select the input and streams, use stream copy, choose the segment muxer and interval, and provide a numbered output pattern. Consult the segment muxer options and FFmpeg command-line documentation for syntax suited to your file.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Choose stream copy or re-encoding
| Approach | When it fits | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Stream copy | You want to split quickly while keeping the encoded audio and video streams unchanged. | It avoids re-encoding and its generation loss, but cut positions follow available keyframes rather than guaranteeing exact requested timestamps. |
| Re-encoding | You need more control over cut points or need smaller output files. | It requires processing time and can reduce quality; output settings must suit the source and desired result. |
Before processing the full recording, test a short section. Check that each part opens and plays, the audio stays in sync, and cuts do not omit or repeat material. If preserving every stream matters, confirm that your chosen mapping and output container support the source’s audio, subtitles, and other tracks.
Upload the parts and arrange them in a playlist
- Open YouTube Studio and upload each video. Give the files consistent titles, such as “Episode name — Part 1,” “Part 2,” and so on.
- In the upload details, add each part to the same existing playlist or create a new playlist for the series. YouTube’s upload instructions cover playlist selection during upload.
- Review the playlist and confirm the sequence is correct. Set each video’s visibility and publishing timing intentionally; uploading imports a file, while publishing makes it available to viewers.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a continuous YouTube playlist stream rather than simply splitting a file for ordinary uploads, StreamNeo is a cloud option: upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing needs to stay on at home. It streams uploaded videos to YouTube—not a live camera—and supports any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, without re-encoding or quality tiers. It can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, one free day per account. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start your free day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
