Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
To stream a pre-recorded video to YouTube Live in 1080p with OBS, add the local file to an OBS scene as a Media Source, set the video output and encoder for 1080p, connect OBS to the correct YouTube Live event with its stream key, then check the preview and stream health before starting the event.
Before you start
- A video file: OBS Media Source supports common formats including MP4, MOV, MKV, AVI and WebM. You do not need a camera to use a file as the stream picture. OBS: Media Sources
- A YouTube channel enabled for live streaming: First-time activation can take up to 24 hours, according to YouTube’s encoder setup instructions.
- A stable upload connection and enough encoding capacity: The bitrate recommendations below are targets, not guarantees of delivered quality.
- Broadcast rights: Use only video and audio you are allowed to stream. Owning or having downloaded a file does not by itself establish the right to broadcast it live.
OBS is free, open-source software, according to YouTube’s verified encoder list.
1. Create the YouTube Live event and get its stream details
- Open YouTube Studio and create or schedule a live stream using the encoder workflow. Choose the event’s title, audience settings and privacy. An unlisted event is useful for a private setup test.
- Open the event’s Live Control Room and locate its stream settings. Copy the server URL and stream key for that event.
- Keep the stream key private. It is a credential: anyone who obtains it may be able to send a feed to the associated event. Do not include it in screenshots, recordings or public messages. See YouTube’s encoder setup guide and YouTube’s live-streaming help.
2. Add the pre-recorded video to an OBS scene
- In OBS, select an existing scene or create one.
- In the Sources dock, select + and add a Media Source. Choose to create a new source, give it a recognizable name, and select the video file. OBS lists MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF and WebM among supported extensions. See OBS’s Media Sources guide.
- Check the OBS preview. Resize or reposition the source if it does not fill the canvas as intended. For a conventional 16:9 1080p picture, use a 1920×1080 canvas/output and a 16:9 source where possible; stretching footage with a different aspect ratio can distort it.
- Decide whether the file should repeat. Enable the Media Source’s loop option if you want playback to restart at the end. Loop is off by default. “Show nothing when playback ends” is on by default, so OBS does not leave the final frame displayed after a non-looping file finishes.
- Check audio meters while the file plays. Confirm that the file’s audio is present at a sensible level and that no other scene source is unintentionally adding sound.
The exact wording and placement of controls can vary by OBS version and operating system; the OBS guide documents the Media Source controls, while its Quick Start Guide explains adding sources through the Sources dock.
3. Set 1080p video and encoder output
Use a 1920×1080 output for standard 1080p. Choose 30 or 60 frames per second based on the source, motion and the capacity of your computer and connection. Matching the source’s frame rate is a practical starting point: a 30 fps file does not gain real motion detail by being sent at 60 fps.
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.
YouTube’s current encoder settings guidance, accessed in 2026, recommends the following bitrate ranges by codec and frame rate. The minimum is not the target for best results; use the recommended figure if your upload and encoder can sustain it. YouTube: Choose live encoder settings, bitrates, and resolutions.
| Output | Codec | YouTube minimum bitrate | YouTube recommended bitrate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1080p30 | H.264 | 5 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| 1080p30 | AV1 or HEVC/H.265 | 4 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| 1080p60 | H.264 | 6 Mbps | 17 Mbps |
| 1080p60 | AV1 or HEVC/H.265 | 4 Mbps | 12 Mbps |
These are YouTube’s published encoder recommendations, not a promise that viewers will receive a particular quality. Source quality, codec support, encoder load and network stability all affect the result. Do not treat 1080p as one universal bitrate: the recommended figure changes with codec and frame rate.
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.
Key settings to verify
- Rate control: CBR (constant bitrate), as YouTube specifies for live ingest.
- Keyframe interval: 2 seconds recommended; YouTube says not to exceed 4 seconds.
- Protocol: RTMPS is YouTube’s recommended secure transport. YouTube supports RTMP/RTMPS ingestion.
- Codec: YouTube’s cited settings guidance covers H.264, H.265/HEVC and AV1. Choose a codec supported by your OBS encoder and system.
- Resolution and frame rate: Set 1920×1080 and the chosen 30 or 60 fps output deliberately. YouTube detects resolution and frame rate automatically by default; a custom stream key can allow manual selection.
The YouTube guidance states: “We recommend streaming to YouTube Live with RTMPS, a secure extension to the popular RTMP video streaming protocol.”
4. Connect OBS to the event and test the feed
- In OBS, open the stream settings and choose YouTube/RTMPS if available. If using a custom server option, enter the server URL copied from the correct YouTube event.
- Enter that event’s stream key. Check that you have not accidentally used a key for a different channel or event.
- Start the encoder from OBS, then return to YouTube Live Control Room. Wait for the incoming preview and confirm the expected video and audio arrive.
- Run a short test before the real broadcast. Check framing, playback start, loop behavior, audio levels and stream health. OBS recommends testing for a few minutes rather than going straight into a first stream; YouTube also recommends checking the preview and event accessibility before starting. See the OBS Quick Start Guide and YouTube’s encoder setup guide.
- When the preview is ready, start the event in Live Control Room if it is not configured to start automatically. Keep an eye on stream health and audio/video monitoring while it runs.
For a prerecorded presentation, audience interaction is usually not time-critical. YouTube notes that lower latency can increase playback buffering, so normal latency may be a sensible choice when you do not need near-real-time interaction. YouTube live-streaming help.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchSpecial offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
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.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube does not show an incoming signal | OBS is not sending, or the server URL or stream key does not match the selected event. | Confirm OBS is streaming, then recheck the event’s server URL and key in Live Control Room. Keep the key private. |
| The preview appears at the wrong size or with bars | The source aspect ratio differs from the 16:9 output, or the source is not fitted to the canvas. | Check the 1920×1080 canvas and source transform in the OBS preview. Avoid stretching footage if it distorts the image. |
| Video stops at the end of the file | Loop is disabled. | Open the Media Source properties and enable looping if repeated playback is intended. |
| The picture freezes or stream health degrades | The upload connection or encoder may not sustain the selected bitrate or frame rate. | Check YouTube’s stream-health indication; reduce the output demand if necessary and test again before the event. |
| Viewers report missing or unexpectedly quiet audio | The file may lack the expected audio, or OBS audio levels/routing may be wrong. | Play the source in OBS, watch its audio meter, and verify the preview audio before starting the event. |
| First-time streaming is unavailable | Live streaming may not yet be activated for the channel. | Enable live streaming in YouTube Studio and allow up to 24 hours for first-time activation, as YouTube states in its encoder setup instructions. |
Cost and unattended playback options
The OBS workflow uses free software, but it depends on a computer running OBS and a stable connection for the length of the broadcast. For an unattended hardware option, YouTube’s verified encoder list identifies the AJA HELO Plus PlayToStream feature for scheduling prerecorded playback to YouTube Live without a computer. Check current availability, specifications and pricing with the manufacturer; the cited YouTube listing does not establish those details. YouTube verified encoders.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
StreamNeo keeps a YouTube channel live from uploaded videos, so no computer or home connection has to stay on. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It loops uploaded video in the cloud; it does not broadcast a camera feed.
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
- One flat price per slot for any quality up to 4K 60fps as uploaded, with no re-encode or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card required.
Monthly: $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo for details, 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.
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.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
