Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsIf an OBS playlist stops at a missing video, restore the file or remove or replace its stale playlist entry, then test playback past that point before going live again. OBS documents playlist looping as restarting after the final item; it does not document that setting as a way to skip a missing file. YouTube will not automatically find a replacement for a file on your computer.
First, find out whether the playlist or the live stream stopped
Check the OBS preview or program and the YouTube Live output at the time playback stalled. If the scene is still being sent but its media is frozen, blank, or absent, start with the local source and playlist entries. If OBS output itself has stopped reaching YouTube, troubleshoot the encoder or network separately: a local playlist problem and a stream-ingest problem are different failure points.
YouTube’s HLS guidance concerns delivery from an encoder to YouTube, not a list of local videos in OBS. Do not change HLS settings to fix a missing source file unless your encoder is actually configured for HLS ingestion.
Choose the OBS source that matches your playlist
| OBS source | Best fit | Relevant behavior | Important caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Media Source | One local video file | Its Loop option repeats that file. | It is not the documented source for an ordered multi-file playlist. Separate Media Sources do not automatically make a queue. |
| VLC Video | Multiple local media items | Supports playlist order, optional shuffle, looping after the playlist ends, and visibility behavior. | Requires VLC to be installed. The reviewed OBS documentation does not establish that a missing entry will be skipped automatically. |
If VLC Video is missing from OBS’s Add Source menu, install VLC. OBS specifies that 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC.
#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.
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Repair the missing entry and verify playback
- Identify the affected source. In OBS, select the scene and inspect the source that should be playing. Confirm whether it is a Media Source for one file or VLC Video for a multi-item list.
- Check the exact file path. Confirm that the missing video still exists where the playlist expects it, and that it opens normally. A moved, renamed, disconnected, or deleted file can leave a stale path.
- Restore, remove, or replace the entry. Restore the video from a backup if it is needed. Otherwise edit the VLC Video playlist to remove the stale entry or replace it with a valid local file. OBS code can detect missing local paths, but that does not establish that it will skip the item or continue playback.
- Review playback controls. Turn Shuffle Playlist off if you need a fixed order. Enable Loop Playlist if playback should start again after the final item; it is an end-of-list setting, not a missing-file recovery setting. Check Visibility Behaviour if the source becomes hidden during scene changes, since the documented options can continue, pause, or stop playback while hidden.
- Test the repaired list in the actual scene. Start playback before going live and watch it pass the formerly missing entry. Confirm both the OBS output and the YouTube Live output behave as intended.
Keep a backup and reduce avoidable interruptions
Keeping a second copy of source videos can make restoring a missing item easier. An external drive is one possible place for that backup, but it does not make OBS skip a missing playlist entry; the playlist still needs a valid path and a playback test.
For longer-running broadcasts, check the playlist paths and scene behavior before starting, and repeat that check after moving files or changing storage. Do not treat Loop Playlist as proof that every entry is available or that playback will recover from a broken path.
Rank #2
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- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
When the built-in VLC playlist workflow is not enough
The OBS Forums lists a community Media Playlist Source plugin as an alternative to VLC Video, with playlist editing and management features. It is third-party software. Check the current release notes for compatibility with your OBS version before installing it: the forum listing gives a minimum version of 30.0.0, while a release line indicates OBS 31 as its minimum. Do not rely on it to skip missing files unless that behavior is documented or tested for the exact version you install.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a YouTube channel playing uploaded videos continuously, StreamNeo avoids depending on an OBS computer at home: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. The cloud keeps the stream running with your computer off. Every slot supports uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream, 24/7 looping and playlists, and 10 GB of storage per slot pooled across active slots. The first day is free with no card, once per account. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo for details, then start the 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.
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- 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
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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.
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- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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