To livestream old videos on YouTube around the clock, send a looping video or playlist from an encoder to YouTube Live. In OBS, use a looping Media Source for one file or a VLC Video source with Loop Playlist for several files, then connect OBS with the stream URL and key from YouTube Live Control Room. Your channel must be eligible, you must have the rights needed for every part of the content, and a broadcast longer than 12 hours may not be archived completely.
Before you start: channel access and content rights
Check YouTube livestream eligibility
YouTube says livestreaming requires a verified channel with no livestream restrictions in the previous 90 days. Initial activation can take up to 24 hours. Its getting-started guidance states a minimum age of 16. Check the current eligibility status in YouTube Studio before preparing a long broadcast; if livestreaming is not enabled yet, allow time for activation.
Clear every part of the video for live use
An old upload is not automatically cleared for a new live broadcast. Confirm that you have the necessary rights to the video, music, clips, images, and other included material. YouTube scans live streams for matches to third-party content. Even licensed material may be interrupted unless the rights holder allowlists your channel. Looping a video does not change copyright obligations or prevent a live-stream interruption.
For channel eligibility, age, and activation details, see YouTube’s livestreaming requirements. For third-party content checks, see YouTube’s copyright guidance for live streams.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#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.
How to loop old videos in OBS and stream them to YouTube
1. Prepare a single video or playlist
- One file: In OBS, add a Media Source, select the local video file, and enable Loop. OBS defines this control as replaying the file after playback completes.
- Several files: Add a VLC Video source, build the playlist, and enable Loop Playlist. OBS requires VLC to be installed for this source type.
- Check playback: Preview the source in OBS and confirm that both picture and sound work before sending it live.
For the available source controls, see the OBS Media Sources guide (dated January 11, 2022).
2. Create or schedule the YouTube stream
- Open YouTube Live Control Room and create or schedule a stream.
- Copy the stream URL and stream key shown for the stream.
- In OBS, open Settings > Stream, select YouTube if available, and enter the stream details. If you use a custom server option, enter the stream URL and key in the corresponding fields.
- Treat the stream key like a password: it lets an encoder send a feed to your channel. Do not share it publicly; reset it if it is exposed.
YouTube explains how to find encoder settings and keys in its stream setup guidance.
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.
3. Preview and test before relying on the loop
Start the encoder and check the preview in Live Control Room before going public. Listen for clean audio, verify the video is framed correctly, and confirm that the intended file or playlist advances and repeats. Test the network and encoder setup in advance. YouTube recommends upload bandwidth above the stream bitrate with 20% headroom; for example, a bitrate of 10 Mbps calls for at least 12 Mbps of available upload capacity under that recommendation. See YouTube’s live streaming tips.
What stays running in a local setup
With OBS running locally, the computer, OBS, the video files, and the internet connection all need to remain available for the broadcast. A sleep setting, restart, software crash, power loss, or connection interruption can stop the feed. Plan how you will monitor the stream and restore it if something fails; a looping source alone does not make the whole system self-recovering.
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.
YouTube’s encoder directory also lists Gyre as a cloud-based option for streaming prerecorded video 24/7. The directory listing establishes its category, but does not establish current pricing, service levels, feature limits, or partner terms. See YouTube’s encoder information.
Plan separately for a complete replay
A continuous live broadcast is not a dependable way to create one complete YouTube archive. YouTube says streams under 12 hours can be automatically archived, but a stream exceeding 12 hours may not be captured at all. If you need a full replay, keep a local recording or divide the programming into shorter broadcasts, then verify that each archive is available. YouTube also recommends keeping a local archive backup. Read YouTube’s live-stream archive guidance before relying on automatic capture.
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
Or let it run in the cloud
StreamNeo is a cloud service for keeping a YouTube channel live from uploaded videos: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Its cloud loop keeps running without a computer or home connection staying on. Each slot streams the uploaded file as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; it also includes automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, one free day per account. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. A slot includes 10 GB of storage, pooled across active slots, and the same features on every plan; the plan length changes. UPI and cards are available in India, and card checkout is available worldwide. For five or more slots, contact support. StreamNeo streams to YouTube and plays uploaded videos; it does not broadcast from a camera. Review the copyright safety checklist before streaming, then start the free first day with no card.
Quick 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.
Troubleshooting common problems
- YouTube does not show an encoder preview: Check that livestreaming is enabled, the correct stream URL and key are entered, and the encoder is sending. Allow up to 24 hours for initial activation if the channel was just enabled.
- The stream disconnects or buffers: Check the upload connection and compare available upload capacity with the stream bitrate. YouTube recommends 20% headroom above bitrate. Look for competing uploads or an unstable connection, and confirm that the computer has not slept or stopped OBS.
- The video stops at the end instead of repeating: Recheck the Media Source’s Loop setting for one file or Loop Playlist for the VLC source. Confirm the playlist contains playable local files; VLC must be installed for OBS’s VLC source.
- The broadcast is interrupted over music or footage: Review rights for every component and any applicable allowlisting with the rights holder. A prior upload or license alone does not guarantee uninterrupted live use.
- The replay is missing or incomplete: Check the stream duration. YouTube warns that a broadcast longer than 12 hours may not be captured; use a local recording or shorter broadcasts if preservation matters.
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.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
