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To rotate several prerecorded videos on a YouTube livestream, add them to OBS Studio’s VLC Video Source, set the playlist order and shuffle/loop options, then send the OBS output to YouTube Live. VLC must be installed for the VLC source to appear. For one file repeated by itself, use OBS’s Media Source and enable Loop instead.
Choose the right OBS source
| What you want to play | OBS source | Setting | Dependency |
|---|---|---|---|
| One file, repeated | Media Source | Loop | No VLC dependency is listed for this source |
| Several files in a fixed order | VLC Video Source | Loop Playlist on; Shuffle Playlist off | VLC installed |
| Several files in changing order | VLC Video Source | Shuffle Playlist on; enable Loop Playlist if it should repeat | VLC installed |
A VLC playlist is a local media source inside an OBS scene; it is not a playlist hosted on the YouTube watch page. OBS sends the scene’s composed output to YouTube. OBS Media Sources documentation describes the source controls. Interface placement may change between OBS versions.
Set up a rotating playlist in OBS
- Prepare your files. Put the videos or audio files in a folder accessible to the computer running OBS. Confirm you have the rights to broadcast each item; adding it to a playlist does not grant permission to rebroadcast it.
- Install VLC if needed. OBS’s VLC Video Source depends on VLC. If you use 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC. If VLC Video Source is missing from the Sources add menu, check that VLC is installed and that its architecture matches OBS. OBS’s source documentation covers this dependency.
- Open the scene that will go live. OBS organizes the broadcast using scenes and sources. Select the intended scene, then use the add control in the Sources dock and choose VLC Video Source. Name the source if useful and confirm.
- Load and order the media. In the VLC source properties, add the files to its playlist and arrange them in the desired sequence. Use files on storage that will remain available while the stream runs.
- Choose rotation behavior. Leave Shuffle Playlist off for the listed order or turn it on for randomized item order. Enable Loop Playlist to start the sequence again after the last file. OBS documentation lists loop on and shuffle off as defaults, but inspect the settings in your own source rather than assuming they are unchanged.
- Set hidden-source behavior. The VLC source can stop and restart, pause and resume, or keep playing while hidden. Choose the option that suits scene changes. With stop/restart, returning to the scene can restart the playlist instead of resuming where it left off. OBS documents these visibility behaviors.
- Check the scene composition. Make sure the source is visible and positioned or sized as intended. If the playlist is audio-only, confirm the audio source is active in the scene and that the OBS mixer shows a signal during playback.
For only one repeating file, add a Media Source instead and enable its Loop option. That source also has separate restart-on-activation and end-of-playback behavior controls; those are not the same as the VLC playlist’s shuffle and loop settings. See OBS Media Sources for the distinctions.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- In YouTube Studio, open the Live Control Room and create or schedule a stream.
- Copy the stream URL and stream key shown for that broadcast. In OBS, open Settings and then Stream; select the YouTube service and enter the connection details as appropriate for the selected service or encoder configuration. YouTube’s encoder setup guide explains the stream URL/key workflow.
- Start streaming from OBS. Check that the Live Control Room receives the feed and that its preview shows the expected playlist playback.
- For a scheduled broadcast, click Go live in the Live Control Room when ready. Sending video from OBS and starting the scheduled event in YouTube are separate actions.
Treat the stream key as a secret: YouTube describes it as “like your YouTube stream’s password and address.” If it is exposed, reset it in Live Control Room and update OBS. See YouTube’s live-stream settings guidance.
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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.
Test playback before inviting viewers
- Let the preview run long enough to confirm the first clip starts and the next item follows it.
- Check picture and sound in the Live Control Room, not only in the OBS preview. Confirm the playlist advances and the intended audio reaches the stream.
- Verify the loop or shuffle behavior you selected, and check what happens if you hide and show the VLC source or switch scenes.
- Set up in advance and monitor stream audio and video during the broadcast. YouTube recommends advance setup, preview checks, testing, and ongoing monitoring in its computer live-streaming tips.
OBS’s playlist controls do not establish that media is licensed for your use or compliant with YouTube rules. Rights and policy outcomes depend on the content and circumstances. The cited OBS documentation also does not promise seamless transitions or crossfades between files.
Troubleshoot common playlist 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, then reopen or check OBS’s Sources add menu. |
| The list stops after the last item | Loop Playlist is off | Open the VLC source properties and enable Loop Playlist. |
| Files play in an unexpected order | Shuffle is on or playlist order differs from the intended order | Turn off Shuffle Playlist for fixed order and inspect the listed sequence. |
| Playback starts over after switching back to a scene | The source is configured to stop and restart when hidden | Choose pause/resume or always play while hidden if you need playback to continue through scene changes. |
| OBS plays media but YouTube preview does not show or hear it | The wrong scene/source may be sent, or the stream has not connected as expected | Check source visibility and mixer activity in OBS, then verify the incoming preview in Live Control Room before going live. |
| YouTube does not receive the OBS feed | Stream URL/key details may be incorrect or the wrong event may be open | Compare OBS connection settings with the details for the intended Live Control Room stream. Reset an exposed key and replace it in OBS. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a YouTube channel that keeps prerecorded videos live around the clock, StreamNeo is an alternative to running OBS on a computer at home. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo loops the uploaded videos from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. It supports whatever quality you upload up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly access is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo is for YouTube streams of uploaded video, not camera broadcasts. See StreamNeo, or start the free first day.
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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