DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowOctober 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 Scan×
Skip to content
VGSources
OBS Studio

How to Fix OBS Media Source Restarting Instead of Continuing a YouTube Playlist

The fix depends on whether OBS is playing one local file, a local playlist, or an embedded YouTube playlist. Here are the settings for each.

By VGSources Team 3 min read
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

First identify what is playing: a single local file, a playlist of local files, or a YouTube playlist in an embedded player. Each uses different loop controls. For one local file, check Media Source’s Loop and activation settings; for multiple local files, use VLC Video Source; for a YouTube playlist, set the YouTube player’s playlist parameters. Changing the wrong loop setting will not fix the restart.

Identify the source that is restarting

In OBS, open the source’s properties and check its type. OBS distinguishes Media Source, which plays media files, from VLC Video Source, which supports a playlist of local files. A Browser Source showing a YouTube embed uses YouTube’s player controls instead. OBS’s Sources Guide explains how sources work in scenes.

  • One file stored on your computer: Media Source.
  • Several files stored on your computer: VLC Video Source.
  • A playlist hosted on YouTube: Browser Source with an embedded YouTube player.

Use the remedy for the source you actually have; Media Source’s Loop option does not control a YouTube playlist.

Fix a single local file in Media Source

  1. In OBS, select the scene containing the source, right-click the Media Source, and open Properties.
  2. Enable Loop if the file should play again after it reaches the end. The OBS Project’s Media Sources documentation describes this as replaying the file once playback has completed.
  3. Check Restart playback when source becomes active separately. This controls what happens when the source becomes active, such as when it is shown in a scene; it is not the setting that repeats a file at its end.

If the source starts from the beginning when you switch scenes or make it visible, investigate activation and visibility behavior. If it reaches the end and should begin again, check Loop.

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.

Loop a playlist of local files with VLC Video Source

  1. Add a VLC Video Source to the scene and open its properties.
  2. Add the local media files in the order you want them to play.
  3. Enable Loop Playlist to start the list again after the last item finishes.
  4. Choose the Visibility Behaviour that fits your scene use: stop and restart when visible, pause and resume, or always play.

VLC must be installed for this source. OBS notes that a 64-bit OBS installation requires 64-bit VLC. If the source stops or appears to restart around a scene change, check Visibility Behaviour and whether the source is being hidden and reactivated.

Set up a YouTube playlist in an embedded player

A YouTube playlist embedded in a Browser Source is controlled by YouTube’s player parameters, not by OBS’s local-file loop setting. Google’s YouTube Embedded Players and Player Parameters documentation specifies the playlist parameters.

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. Set listType=playlist and list=PLAYLIST_ID, replacing PLAYLIST_ID with the ID of the YouTube playlist.
  2. Use autoplay=1 if the player should start automatically.
  3. Use loop=1 to repeat the playlist after its last video. YouTube distinguishes looping a playlist from looping a single video.

Confirm that the embed points to the intended playlist and that the source is actually a YouTube embed. A local Media Source’s Loop checkbox cannot make a YouTube playlist repeat.

If it still restarts

  • It restarts when you switch scenes or show the source: Check whether the source is hidden and reactivated, then review the relevant activation or Visibility Behaviour setting.
  • One file repeats, but the other playlist items never play: You may have added a single Media Source rather than a VLC Video Source playlist.
  • A YouTube playlist stops after one video: Check that the embed uses listType=playlist and the correct list value, then set loop=1 if the entire playlist should repeat.
  • VLC Video Source is unavailable or does not play files: Install VLC and match its architecture to OBS; OBS requires 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS.
  • The controls look right but the cause is unclear: Recheck the source type and its properties. Without knowing the specific source and configuration, there is no single setting that can be identified as the cause.

The OBS forum also lists the optional Media Playlist Source plugin as an alternative for local playlists. Check its current maintenance and compatibility with your OBS version before installing it.

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

Or let it run in the cloud

If the goal is unattended prerecorded broadcasting to YouTube rather than fixing an OBS scene, StreamNeo runs the stream from the cloud: upload your video or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.

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

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.

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 from Patch Notes

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

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.