October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsClean PCRecommendedOne scan can reveal what keeps slowing WindowsLook for cleanup and repair opportunities.Run ScanOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
VGSources
Blog

How to Keep a YouTube Livestream Running When a Video File Ends

Enable Loop on an OBS Media Source to repeat one video, or Loop Playlist on a VLC Video source for multiple clips. Test the repeat point and stream preview before going live.
Length3 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To keep a YouTube livestream running after a video file reaches its last frame, make the file repeat in your encoder. In OBS Studio, add it as a Media Source and enable Loop in the source properties. For several clips, use an OBS VLC Video source, add the clips to its playlist, and enable Loop Playlist. The encoder keeps sending the feed to YouTube; the file ending by itself does not end the broadcast.

Loop one video file in OBS

  1. Open the scene you intend to use for the livestream, or create one.
  2. In the Sources panel, add a Media Source and select the video file.
  3. Open the Media Source properties and enable Loop.
  4. Confirm that the source is visible in the scene and that its audio is routed as intended.
  5. Start a private or unlisted test stream. Watch the file reach its end, return to the beginning, and continue playing while the stream remains live.

OBS’s Media Sources documentation describes Loop as repeating the media after playback completes. The exact interface may vary with OBS versions.

Loop a playlist of clips

  1. In the scene, add a VLC Video source.
  2. Add the video files to that source’s playlist and arrange them in the desired order.
  3. Enable Loop Playlist in the source settings.
  4. Test the transition from the final clip back to the first, including the playlist’s audio.

OBS requires VLC to be installed for the VLC Video source to appear. Its media source documentation distinguishes a single-file Loop setting from Loop Playlist for VLC Video.

What you want to repeat OBS source Setting
One video file Media Source Loop
A sequence of files VLC Video Loop Playlist

Why the YouTube stream stays live

YouTube receives the outgoing content feed from your encoder. A video file reaching its end is a playback event, not a command to end the YouTube broadcast. YouTube’s encoder guidance says, “To end the stream, stop sending content from your encoder.” If the encoder continues sending a valid feed and the source loops, the broadcast can continue.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • 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.

For the planned end of a broadcast, stop the encoder after the event has stopped on YouTube, following YouTube’s encoder instructions. YouTube’s live-streaming guidance recommends testing the setup, checking the Live Control Room preview, and monitoring stream audio and video.

Test and monitor before and during the stream

  • Use a private or unlisted test to verify the loop in the actual scene, rather than checking playback only in OBS.
  • Confirm both video and audio continue across the repeat point; listen for silence, abrupt cuts, or unintended audio overlap.
  • Check the Live Control Room preview and monitor stream health while the broadcast is running.
  • Plan the broadcast length with archiving in mind: YouTube says streams under 12 hours are automatically archived. Its cited guidance does not establish the same archive behavior for streams longer than 12 hours.

Or let it run in the cloud

If your goal is an always-on YouTube stream of uploaded videos, StreamNeo can loop the video or a playlist from the cloud:

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 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.
  1. Upload your recording or build a playlist.
  2. Add your YouTube stream key once.
  3. Go live; StreamNeo keeps the feed running from the cloud, so your computer and home connection do not need to stay on.

Each slot streams the uploaded file as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; StreamNeo does not re-encode the video. 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. StreamNeo streams to YouTube and plays uploaded videos; it is not a camera-based live setup.

Start your free day with StreamNeo.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Troubleshooting

The video stops at the end

Check that Loop is enabled on the Media Source, or Loop Playlist on the VLC Video source. These are separate settings; looping the wrong source will not repeat the file you intend.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • 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.

The VLC Video source is missing

Install VLC, then reopen OBS and check the source list. OBS states VLC must be installed for VLC Video to appear.

The picture repeats but the audio does not

Check the selected source’s audio settings and the OBS audio mixer, then test the repeat point in a private or unlisted stream. Confirm that the clip itself contains audio through its ending and beginning.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • 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

The YouTube broadcast ends anyway

Check whether OBS is still sending content and whether the stream appears live in YouTube’s Live Control Room. The loop setting repeats media; it does not restart an encoder or repair an interrupted connection. If YouTube drops the stream, follow the platform’s stream-health guidance and restore the encoder feed.

Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 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.

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.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More quests from Patch Notes

  1. How To Create Custom Stickers & Shoutouts In Monster Hunter WildsMonster Hunter WildsBlog20min
  2. How to Get XL Gogoat in Pokemon Legends Z-A (An Extra-Large Gogoat)Pokemon Legends Z-ABlog20min
  3. How to Get Rotting Lightbringer in Diablo 4Diablo 4Blog17min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.