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To loop several videos in OBS, add them to a VLC Video Source, confirm Loop Playlist is enabled, then send OBS’s output to YouTube Live with the stream URL and key from YouTube Studio. Keep the source visible in the active scene, test the playlist and audio, and use YouTube’s Live Control Room to start a scheduled stream after its preview appears.
Choose the right OBS source
| Source | Best for | Loop setting | Other considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| VLC Video Source | A playlist of multiple files | Loop Playlist; enabled by default | Requires VLC installed with the same architecture as OBS. Shuffle Playlist is off by default. |
| Media Source | Repeating one file | Loop | Built into OBS. It does not provide the multi-file playlist controls of VLC Video Source. |
OBS’s Media Source supports common video formats such as MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF and WebM, and audio formats such as MP3, AAC, OGG and WAV. VLC Video Source uses VLC libraries for extended media support. See OBS’s Media Sources guide.
Prepare OBS, VLC and your files
- Install OBS Studio and VLC. Match their architectures: OBS specifically requires 64-bit VLC when using 64-bit OBS.
- Put the video and audio files you plan to use somewhere OBS can access them. Avoid moving or renaming them after adding them to the playlist, or OBS may no longer find them.
- Open the OBS scene that will carry the stream. If you have not set up a scene, create one before adding the source.
Add and configure the playlist in OBS
- In the Sources dock, click + and choose VLC Video Source. If it is absent, check that VLC is installed and that its architecture matches OBS.
- Create the source, then add the media files to its playlist in the source properties.
- Confirm Loop Playlist is checked. OBS documents it as enabled by default; it repeats the playlist when playback reaches its end.
- Leave Shuffle Playlist off to play the listed order, or enable it for randomized playback.
- Keep the source visible in the active scene. OBS documents VLC source playback as stopping when the source is not visible and restarting when it becomes visible again by default. If your version exposes different visibility behavior, check the current source properties.
For a single file rather than a playlist, add Media Source and enable Loop. Its Restart playback when source becomes active option is on by default; Show nothing when playback ends is also on by default, which matters if looping is disabled.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- In YouTube Studio, open Create → Go Live to reach the Live Control Room, then create or select the stream you intend to use.
- Copy that stream’s server URL and stream key. In OBS, open Settings → Stream, select YouTube if offered, or enter the URL and key provided by YouTube. YouTube’s encoder setup guide says to enter the YouTube Live server URL and stream key into the encoder.
- Click Start Streaming in OBS. For a scheduled stream, wait for the preview in the Live Control Room, inspect the picture and sound, then click Go live.
- Treat the stream key as a password: it authorizes the encoder feed. If it is exposed, reset it in the Live Control Room and replace the value in OBS. See YouTube’s stream-key guidance.
YouTube says streams under 12 hours are automatically archived. That does not remove the need to check the stream and its archive behavior for your intended use.
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.
Set output quality for your connection
Resolution, frame rate, codec and bitrate work together; there is no single bitrate that suits every stream. For H.264, YouTube’s encoder-settings table lists 5 Mbps minimum and 14 Mbps recommended for 1080p at 30 fps, and 6 Mbps minimum and 17 Mbps recommended for 1080p at 60 fps. These are YouTube’s published recommendations, not a guarantee that a particular connection can sustain them. Check the current YouTube encoder settings for the codec and output mode you use, then choose settings your upload connection can maintain reliably.
Test the loop and monitor the live feed
- Before a public broadcast, use a private or unlisted test when appropriate.
- Confirm playback advances through every playlist item and returns to the beginning.
- Listen for the intended audio and check OBS mixer meters so you can spot a muted or missing source.
- Check YouTube’s preview and stream-health indicators before going live and while broadcasting.
- Use audio and movement similar to the intended content during the test, and choose quality that remains stable on your connection.
YouTube recommends testing and monitoring stream health. Its published bitrate ranges vary by codec, resolution and frame rate; use the applicable current row rather than treating any one number as universal.
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.
Troubleshoot common problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| VLC Video Source is missing | VLC is not installed, or its architecture does not match OBS. | Install VLC; for 64-bit OBS, use 64-bit VLC. |
| Only one file repeats | The source is Media Source, which handles one selected file, rather than a VLC playlist. | Use VLC Video Source for multiple files, or keep Media Source and enable Loop when one file is intended. |
| The playlist stops when you switch scenes | The VLC source is hidden, and its documented default behavior is to stop when not visible. | Keep it visible in the active scene or review the source’s visibility behavior settings. |
| Video appears but audio is missing | The source audio may not reach OBS’s mixer or may be muted. | Check the source’s mixer channel, mute state and meter movement while playing. |
| YouTube does not receive the stream | The URL or stream key may be incorrect, stale or for another stream. | Copy the current URL and key from the correct Live Control Room stream. If a key is compromised or stale, reset it in YouTube and update OBS. |
| Playback or stream health is unstable | The selected output quality may exceed sustainable upload bandwidth. | Test a sustainable resolution, frame rate and bitrate combination; monitor YouTube stream health and consult its current encoder table. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is an always-on YouTube stream, StreamNeo runs uploaded videos or playlists from the cloud, so no computer, OBS or home connection has to stay on. Upload your video or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It streams the upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot; it can recover automatically if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. It is YouTube-only and plays uploaded videos rather than a camera feed. Start your free day on StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 5
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.
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
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.
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Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
