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To repeat a prerecorded video during a YouTube live stream, enable Loop on the file in your encoder. In OBS Studio, add the video as a Media Source and turn on its Loop property. Then connect OBS to YouTube Live with the stream URL and stream key. YouTube’s player replay loop is different: it repeats playback for a viewer, but does not send the video out as a live broadcast.
What you need before you start
- A YouTube channel eligible to livestream. YouTube says the channel must be verified and must not have had live-streaming restrictions in the past 90 days. First-time activation can take up to 24 hours, so enable it in advance. YouTube’s live-streaming eligibility guidance explains the requirements.
- OBS Studio installed on a computer that can remain connected for the duration of the stream.
- A video file you have the right to broadcast, including its audio.
- The stream URL and stream key from YouTube Studio. Treat the key like a password; anyone with it may be able to send a feed to your stream.
Set up the repeating video in OBS
- Open YouTube Studio and create or schedule an encoder stream. In Live Control Room, select the option to stream with encoder software and copy the stream URL and stream key. YouTube’s encoder setup instructions cover finding these connection details. Do not share the key publicly.
- Choose a scene in OBS. Create a new scene or select the scene you intend to send to YouTube.
- Add the file as a Media Source. In the Sources panel, select +, choose Media Source, name it, then select the local video file. If the source is already configured, open its properties instead.
- Enable Loop. In the Media Source properties, check Loop. OBS defines the setting as replaying the file after playback completes; see the OBS Media Sources documentation. Confirm the file appears in the preview and that its audio is audible in the OBS mixer.
- Check the picture and sound. Resize or crop the source to fit the canvas as intended. Listen for both the file’s audio and any unintended audio sources in the scene. Make a short test before relying on the setup.
- Connect OBS to YouTube. In OBS, open Settings → Stream, select YouTube as the service, and enter the stream key (or use the available account connection flow). If entering settings manually, use the URL and key from Live Control Room. Keep the key private.
- Start sending and preview the feed. Start streaming in OBS, then check Live Control Room’s preview and stream health. Confirm that the video and audio are correct before making the broadcast live from YouTube Studio, if the control room requires that separate action.
Choose stream settings and test the setup
There is no single bitrate or codec that is right for every computer, upload connection, resolution, and frame rate. Use YouTube’s current live encoder settings and recommendations for the target resolution and frame rate, and use settings your encoder and connection can sustain. YouTube recommends RTMPS for secure ingestion. Its general encoder guidance lists H.264, H.265/HEVC, and AV1, but support depends on the selected encoder and workflow; do not assume every OBS installation or setup supports every option.
- Test with the actual file, including its loudest or most complex sections, rather than a static screen.
- Watch Live Control Room’s stream-health indicators and confirm there are no dropped frames or audio problems before promoting the stream.
- For long sessions, plan how you will monitor the computer, OBS, and internet connection. A local encoder depends on that equipment staying powered and connected.
- YouTube recommends keeping a local recording as a backup. Check OBS recording settings and available disk space before enabling a long recording.
Understand looping, live playback, and archives
Looping is an encoder setting
The repeated file is part of the feed sent by OBS. The YouTube stream URL and key connect that encoder feed to the live broadcast; they do not create a video loop by themselves. A viewer’s replay or loop control in the YouTube player only affects playback on that viewer’s device.
A 24/7 stream may not have a complete YouTube archive
YouTube says a live stream under 12 hours can be automatically archived, but a stream longer than 12 hours may not be captured at all. Do not rely on YouTube for a complete replay of a continuous 24/7 broadcast. If you need an archive, make a separate recording plan and account for storage capacity and recording continuity.
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#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.
Use content you are allowed to broadcast
Looping a file does not grant permission to use its video, music, game footage, or other material. Confirm that you own the material or have the necessary rights, and review YouTube’s copyright guidance and channel monetization policies for rules relevant to your content. A technically successful stream is not a guarantee of monetization or freedom from copyright claims.
Troubleshoot common problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| The video plays once and stops | Loop is off, or the wrong source is being used. | Open the Media Source properties and enable Loop. Confirm the intended file is selected. |
| YouTube receives no feed | OBS is not streaming, or its connection details do not match the current YouTube stream. | Check OBS’s stream status and re-enter the stream URL and key shown for that event in Live Control Room. Reset the key in YouTube if it may have been exposed. |
| The preview works but the broadcast is not live | The feed is reaching Live Control Room, but the broadcast has not been started there. | Check the control room’s status and use its go-live control if prompted. |
| Video appears but has no sound | The file may lack an audio track, its source may be muted, or the scene’s audio routing may be wrong. | Check the OBS mixer while the file plays, inspect mute states and audio meters, and verify the file’s audio before going live. |
| The stream looks unstable or reports health problems | The computer, encoder settings, or network may not sustain the outgoing feed. | Review YouTube’s stream-health feedback, compare the selected resolution and frame rate with YouTube’s recommendations, and run a representative test. Use RTMPS where available. |
| The stream ends when the computer or connection stops | A local OBS setup depends on the computer and its network remaining available. | Check power, sleep settings, OBS status, and internet continuity; for unattended streaming, consider a cloud-based option instead. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want the YouTube loop to continue without keeping a home computer or OBS running, StreamNeo is a cloud service for always-on YouTube streams from uploaded videos. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It streams the upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; it can automatically recover if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card required. Monthly service is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo or plan details. Start your free first day with 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.
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.
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