Yes. A computer running OBS can play a video stored on an attached external SSD and loop it into a YouTube Live stream. The SSD stores the file; it does not host or transmit the broadcast. Your computer, OBS, the connected drive and a reliable internet connection must remain available while you stream.
How to loop an external SSD video in OBS
- Connect the SSD and make sure it is mounted and accessible. Keep it connected throughout the stream.
- In OBS, add a Media Source and select the video file on the SSD. OBS supports local media playback in formats including MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF and WebM. The documentation does not specify an SSD speed or connection threshold, so test your actual file and setup before a long broadcast. OBS Media Sources
- In the Media Source properties, enable Loop to replay the single file after it finishes. For multiple clips, use OBS’s VLC Video source and enable Loop Playlist. VLC must be installed for that source to appear. OBS Media Sources
- Configure OBS to send the stream to YouTube Live using the stream URL and stream key shown in YouTube’s encoder setup. Your channel must have livestreaming access. YouTube: Get started with live streaming
- Before going public, check the preview in YouTube Live Control Room and monitor the audio, video and stream health. YouTube recommends leaving 20% headroom above your total stream bitrate for upload bandwidth. YouTube: Encoder streaming tips
What the SSD does—and what still has to run
The SSD is simply the location of the media file. OBS and your computer still have to read and play that file, encode the scene and send the output over the network. If the computer shuts down, OBS stops, the drive disconnects or the network connection fails, the SSD cannot keep the live broadcast going by itself. YouTube recommends monitoring stream health and checking local archive files, but that guidance is not an SSD-specific reliability guarantee. YouTube: Encoder streaming tips
There is no documented minimum SSD speed, capacity, connection standard or recommended model for this workflow. Choose storage that can hold your media and connect to your computer, then test the exact file, computer and connection before relying on it for an extended stream.
Single file, playlist or cloud: which setup fits?
| Setup | What repeats | What must remain available |
|---|---|---|
| OBS Media Source | One local file | Computer, OBS, accessible drive and network |
| OBS VLC Video source | A playlist of local files | Computer, OBS, VLC, accessible files and network |
| StreamNeo cloud service | Uploaded videos or a playlist | StreamNeo account and configuration; the service runs the stream from the cloud |
OBS documents the local-file options above. YouTube’s encoder directory also lists hosted services for 24/7 prerecorded streaming; that confirms the category exists, but does not establish the terms or suitability of every service. YouTube: Live streaming encoder settings, bitrates and resolutions
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#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.
Or let it run in the cloud
With StreamNeo, upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; the service loops uploaded videos from the cloud and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. Your upload streams as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
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.
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.
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.
