If OBS is sending your 24/7 YouTube stream, update the playlist in the OBS source that plays your files—not in a YouTube watch-page playlist. For multiple videos, OBS’s VLC Video source is the playlist-capable option. An in-place edit may or may not appear immediately, however, so check the OBS preview and YouTube live output after changing it. If uninterrupted playback matters, test the change first or prepare an alternate scene and switch only after previewing it.
First identify which playlist you need to change
Local files played by OBS
The playlist feeding a live broadcast is part of the scene and source in OBS. A YouTube playlist on the watch page only organizes videos for viewers; it does not add local files to the outgoing live signal. For multiple local files, OBS documents its VLC Video source as the playlist-capable source. The instructions below apply to that setup.
One file or a cloud playout service
If OBS plays one file, use the Media Source’s Loop property to repeat it. If a cloud service is generating the stream, make playlist changes in that service’s controls; OBS instructions will not apply.
Update an OBS VLC Video playlist
- Confirm the source. In OBS, select the scene carrying the stream and identify the VLC Video source that plays the playlist. If VLC Video is not available when adding a source, install VLC. OBS’s documentation says 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. Its Media Sources page, dated January 11, 2022, lists Media Source and VLC Video source availability for Windows, macOS, and Linux; labels or behavior may differ in later versions.
- Open the source properties. In the Sources list, right-click the VLC Video source and choose Properties. Make the playlist change in that source, not by editing a playlist in YouTube’s player.
- Check the item list and playback options. Confirm the intended files and their order. Check whether Shuffle Playlist is enabled and whether Loop Playlist is on. OBS’s cited documentation lists Loop Playlist as on by default and Shuffle Playlist as off by default; check the controls in your installed version rather than relying on defaults.
- Account for scene visibility. In the VLC Video properties, check Visibility Behaviour if the source is hidden during scene changes. The documented choices control whether media stops and restarts, pauses and resumes, or always plays while hidden. OBS’s page lists “Stop when not visible, restart when visible” as the default. This setting affects source playback, not whether YouTube has ended the broadcast.
- Verify both playback and broadcast status. Check the OBS preview to see which item is playing, then check the YouTube live output and Live Control Room. Do not assume a playlist edit took effect just because it appears in source properties—or that playback restarting means the broadcast ended.
Will an edit take effect without interrupting the stream?
There is no guaranteed hot-reload sequence in the cited OBS guide. It documents playlist settings, but does not promise that editing a VLC playlist while it is streaming will update the active output without a reset. OBS forum users have reported different outcomes: one described an edit appearing after saving the playlist at the same location, while other reports describe a change requiring a restart or playback returning to the first video. These are individual reports, not dependable behavior across versions and setups.
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.
If the current item must not be disturbed, a cautious workflow is to prepare an alternate scene or source, preview it, and switch only when it is ready. This is a practical fallback, not a guarantee of seamless switching. Test the procedure before relying on it during a live broadcast; OBS’s quick-start guidance recommends testing settings before a real stream.
Keep media looping separate from keeping the broadcast live
Loop Playlist controls what the VLC source plays after it reaches the end of its items. It does not keep the computer, OBS, network connection, encoder stream, or YouTube broadcast healthy. YouTube models an incoming live stream separately from the live broadcast; its API documentation describes a 24/7 broadcast continuing while a distinct broadcast is activated using the same stream. That distinction helps explain why a source reset does not, by itself, prove that the broadcast ended—but it does not make playlist edits interruption-free.
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.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you would rather not keep an OBS computer running at home, StreamNeo keeps an uploaded-video YouTube stream running from the cloud. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; uploaded videos stream as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; and StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly is $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
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.
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
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.
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.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →
