Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →To run a YouTube playlist through OBS, copy the stream URL and stream key from YouTube Studio into OBS > Settings > Stream, then add a looping media source to your scene. Start OBS streaming; for a scheduled broadcast, you may also need to click Go live in YouTube Studio after the preview appears. This keeps the playlist playing while OBS and the computer remain running—it does not, by itself, restart OBS after a crash or power loss.
Get the YouTube stream URL and key
- In YouTube Studio, choose Create > Go live to open Live Control Room.
- For an immediate broadcast, use the Stream tab. For a scheduled broadcast, open Manage > Schedule stream and configure it.
- Copy the Stream URL and Stream key shown in Live Control Room. YouTube’s workflow and labels may change, so follow the current Studio interface if they differ.
The key acts like the stream’s password and address. Keep it private. If someone else obtains it, reset the key in Live Control Room and replace the saved key in OBS. YouTube says a channel owner or manager can reset it. See Manage live stream settings and Create a YouTube live stream with an encoder.
Enter the key in OBS
- Open OBS and go to Settings > Stream.
- If OBS offers YouTube as a service, select it and enter the stream key in the key field.
- If YouTube is not available as a service, choose the custom server option, paste YouTube’s Stream URL into the server field, and paste the key into Stream Key.
- Choose Apply and OK. Start the OBS stream when your scene and playlist are ready.
YouTube’s encoder instructions describe the same connection: “To start streaming, enter your YouTube Live server URL and stream key into your encoder.” Use the URL and key displayed for your broadcast rather than copying a key from an unrelated stream.
Make the playlist repeat in OBS
For multiple videos: VLC Video Source
- Install VLC. On 64-bit OBS, the OBS documentation specifies 64-bit VLC for the VLC Video Source.
- In OBS, select the scene that should carry the playlist, then add a VLC Video Source.
- Open the source properties, add the video files to its playlist, and enable Loop Playlist.
- Check the source’s visibility behavior. OBS lists Stop when not visible, restart when visible as the default; if a scene change hides the source, playback may stop and restart when it becomes visible again.
For one video: Media Source
- Add a regular Media Source to the scene and select the file.
- Enable its Loop property to repeat that file.
Use the VLC Video Source when the broadcast should move through several files; use Media Source for a single repeating file. OBS documents these options in Media Sources (dated 2022-01-11).
Recommended Free Tools
#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.
- 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.
Start the broadcast and verify it
- Before relying on the setup, run a test stream. Confirm the video and audio in YouTube’s preview and check Live Control Room’s stream health.
- Start streaming in OBS. For a scheduled stream, wait for the preview to appear in Live Control Room, then click Go live unless you configured auto-start.
- Watch the stream long enough to confirm that video and sound continue as expected and that the playlist advances or loops. Keep OBS, VLC if used, and the computer running for the broadcast.
YouTube recommends choosing a stream quality your upload connection can sustain reliably. Its encoder guidance for RTMP/RTMPS lists H.264 video, CBR, a recommended two-second keyframe interval (not more than four seconds), and AAC or MP3 audio. Bitrate depends on resolution and frame rate, so consult YouTube’s current table rather than treating one bitrate as suitable for every stream. YouTube recommends RTMPS, which encrypts the feed to and through Google’s servers. A lower latency setting can increase playback buffering; choose latency based on how much real-time interaction matters. See Choose live encoder settings, bitrates, and resolutions and Streaming tips.
Plan for long broadcasts and common failures
OBS connects, but YouTube is not live
For a scheduled stream, connecting the encoder and seeing a preview may not start the public broadcast. Open Live Control Room and select Go live unless auto-start is configured.
Rank #2
- 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.
The key is rejected or the feed does not connect
Check that the Stream URL and key came from the intended broadcast, and that the OBS service/server fields match the setup method. If the key was reset or exposed, update OBS with the replacement key from Live Control Room.
The playlist stops or restarts unexpectedly
For a multi-file list, confirm VLC is installed and that Loop Playlist is enabled. If playback changes when scenes switch, inspect the VLC source visibility setting. For one file, confirm the Media Source’s Loop property is on.
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.
- 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.
Picture or audio stutters
Check YouTube’s stream health and whether the connection can sustain the chosen quality. Reduce the output target or bitrate if the upload connection is unstable, using YouTube’s current settings table for the selected resolution and frame rate.
OBS or the computer stops
A looping source repeats media; it does not establish automatic recovery after OBS crashes, the computer loses power, or the network goes down. Test any separate restart or power-recovery arrangement you plan to rely on. For a long broadcast archive, YouTube states that streams under 12 hours are automatically archived; it does not make that promise for longer uninterrupted streams. Plan and test how to end or segment a broadcast if you need an archive. The rule is documented in Create a YouTube live stream with an encoder.
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
- 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
YouTube also advises creators to follow its live-streaming and copyright rules. A playlist containing third-party game footage, music, or other material is not automatically cleared for continuous live use just because you own or can play the files. Review YouTube’s live streaming tips and rights for every item before broadcasting. YouTube notes that expensive equipment is not required to get started; professional-grade hardware encoders are an option for higher-production events, not a prerequisite for this OBS setup.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
If you want an always-on YouTube playlist without leaving OBS and a computer running at home, StreamNeo runs uploaded videos from the cloud. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It streams the file as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; it can recover automatically if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesQuick 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.
- 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.
Start your free StreamNeo day.
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.
