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To loop an MKV file in OBS, add it to a scene as a Media Source, enable Local File, select the MKV, and check Loop. OBS plays the file repeatedly; the stream URL and key send the resulting OBS output to YouTube Live.
Loop one MKV file with OBS Media Source
- Add the source. In the scene you want to broadcast, use the Sources panel’s add control and choose Media Source. Give it a recognizable name.
- Select the file. In the source properties, enable Local File and browse to your MKV.
- Enable looping. Check Loop. OBS defines this setting as repeating the file after playback completes.
- Choose how it starts when shown. The separate Restart playback when source becomes active option starts playback from the beginning when the source becomes visible. Leave it enabled if that is the behavior you want. It does not replace Loop: Loop repeats at the end of the file; restart controls what happens when the source becomes active.
- Check the scene. Make sure the source is visible and sized and positioned as intended. Start playback in OBS and confirm that the video and its audio are present.
OBS supports MKV directly in Media Source, so a single file does not need to be converted first. The file remains on your computer and is played by OBS; YouTube receives the encoder’s live output, not an uploaded MKV file. OBS Media Sources documentation
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- Check channel eligibility. YouTube requires a verified channel with no live-streaming restrictions during the previous 90 days. If you have not streamed before, allow time to enable livestreaming and prepare the event. YouTube’s livestreaming setup guidance
- Get the stream connection details. In YouTube Live Control Room, create or select the stream and find its stream URL and stream key. In OBS, open Settings > Stream, choose YouTube if it is available, or enter the YouTube stream URL and key using the available service or custom-server options. A stream key is a credential: YouTube describes stream keys as “like your YouTube stream’s password and address.” Keep it private; anyone with access may be able to send a feed to your stream. YouTube stream-key guidance
- Set output for your connection. Choose resolution and bitrate that your sustained upload connection can support reliably. YouTube recommends matching stream quality to a reliable upload bitrate. Its encoder guidance covers codec, frame rate, keyframe interval, and bitrate mode; use the current YouTube and OBS settings screens for the applicable options rather than assuming one configuration fits every connection. YouTube encoder settings guidance
- Preview before starting. Start the encoder stream from OBS and wait for the preview in Live Control Room. Check the picture, movement, audio levels, and synchronization. Begin the event only after the preview is correct.
- Monitor while live. Watch YouTube’s stream health and OBS for dropped frames or other warnings. If the stream is unstable, reduce output quality to a level your upload connection can sustain.
YouTube recommends RTMPS for encoder streams. The precise labels and options can change, so follow the current Live Control Room and OBS interface. YouTube encoder settings guidance
Use a playlist instead of one file
For a single MKV, Media Source is the direct built-in option. If you need OBS to cycle through multiple files, use its VLC Video source and enable Loop Playlist. This route requires VLC to be installed; for 64-bit OBS, OBS documentation specifies 64-bit VLC. OBS Media Sources documentation
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.
| Source | Best for | Loop setting | Dependency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Media Source | One MKV file | Loop | Built into OBS |
| VLC Video | A playlist of files | Loop Playlist | VLC installed; match VLC architecture to OBS |
MKV playback is different from MKV recording
OBS’s recommendation to record in MKV is about resilience: if a recording is interrupted, the entire file is less likely to be corrupted. OBS also notes that MKV may need remuxing for compatibility with some editing workflows. Those recording considerations do not mean an existing MKV must be converted to play it in Media Source. OBS recording formats guidance
Common problems and fixes
- The file does not repeat: Reopen Media Source properties and verify that Loop is checked. The restart-when-active option is separate and will not make a file repeat at its end.
- Playback starts over when you switch scenes: Check whether Restart playback when source becomes active is enabled. Turn it off if you want the source to continue rather than restart when it becomes visible again.
- The source is blank or silent in the preview: Confirm that Local File is enabled and the selected path points to the intended MKV. Check that the source is visible in the scene, then test video and audio in OBS before connecting to YouTube.
- YouTube does not show a preview: Confirm the selected YouTube stream and stream key, then check that OBS is streaming to the matching event. Wait for Live Control Room to receive the encoder feed before starting the event.
- The stream health is poor: Check upload stability and OBS warnings. Reduce the stream’s output quality if the connection cannot sustain the chosen bitrate, and test again before resuming.
- VLC Video is unavailable or cannot load the playlist: Install VLC and make sure its architecture matches OBS; OBS specifically calls for 64-bit VLC with 64-bit OBS.
Copyright and YouTube livestream rules
A file playing locally in OBS does not establish that you have permission to broadcast its contents. Use video and audio you own or are licensed to stream, and check applicable YouTube rules before going live. YouTube’s eligibility requirements also apply to encoder streams, including channel verification and the absence of live-streaming restrictions in the preceding 90 days. See the YouTube livestreaming setup guidance and use this copyright safety checklist to review a planned stream.
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.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a continuous YouTube loop, OBS needs the computer and internet connection running for the stream to continue. StreamNeo is a cloud service for keeping a YouTube channel live from uploaded videos: upload the recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home. It streams the uploaded file as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot; automatic recovery is included if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo, or start your 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.
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Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
