RTMP pull means a player or media tool connects to an RTMP server and reads a stream that is already available there. To test it with FFmpeg, use the server’s read URL as the input; you do not create a stream merely by entering a URL. If you are testing locally, you also need an RTMP server and a publisher sending a source to it.
What RTMP pull means
RTMP is a multimedia streaming protocol that runs over TCP/IP. In a pull workflow, the client initiates a connection to a server and requests an available stream. In a publish workflow, a source client sends a stream to the server. RTMP can be used for both directions, but the URLs and credentials may differ.
A valid pull therefore requires a stream already being served at the requested path. A hostname by itself—or an ingest URL intended for a broadcaster—does not establish that a stream is available to read. FFmpeg describes RTMP URL components including the server, optional port, application, instance and playpath; the exact arrangement depends on the server or provider. FFmpeg protocol documentation
Read an existing RTMP stream with FFmpeg
Get the playback/read URL from the server administrator or service provider. Then use it as FFmpeg’s input:
#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.
ffmpeg -i rtmp://localhost/mystream -c copy output.mp4Replace rtmp://localhost/mystream with the actual read URL. Here, -i identifies the input and -c copy asks FFmpeg to copy the streams without re-encoding. The example URL is documented by MediaMTX for a local stream; it is not a universal address. MediaMTX: Read with FFmpeg
Stream copy does not convert codecs. The audio and video codecs in the source must be suitable for the chosen output container; the example does not guarantee that every RTMP source can be copied into MP4. If the output is not playable, check the source codecs and container compatibility, or use an appropriate transcoding workflow rather than assuming the pull connection itself is broken.
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.
Set up a local pull test
A local test has two prerequisites before the reader command can work: an RTMP server listening on the expected address and a publisher sending a stream to a path on that server. MediaMTX documents the following FFmpeg publishing example:
ffmpeg -re -stream_loop -1 -i file.mp4 -c copy -f flv rtmp://localhost:1935/mystreamRun it with a source file named file.mp4 available in the current directory and a MediaMTX server configured to accept the example connection. -re reads the file at its normal playback rate, -stream_loop -1 loops it indefinitely, and -f flv selects the publishing format used in the documented example. This command publishes; it is not the pull command. MediaMTX: Publish with FFmpeg
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated 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 matchRank #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.
- Start and configure the RTMP server. Use a server that accepts RTMP publishing and reading. The example assumes a local MediaMTX instance; the server must be running and reachable before either FFmpeg command can connect.
- Publish a source. Send a file or other source to the server’s publishing URL and path. In the example, the path is
mystream. - Read the path. In a second terminal, run the FFmpeg read command with the server’s read URL. For the documented local path, that is
rtmp://localhost/mystream.
Ports, paths, authentication and stream-key conventions vary. MediaMTX’s local examples use the path in the URL and do not require a separate stream key; do not assume another server or provider works the same way.
Publish from OBS instead
OBS can publish as an RTMP client. In OBS, open Settings → Stream, choose Custom, enter the RTMP server URL and start streaming. In MediaMTX’s example, the path is included in rtmp://localhost/mystream, so the stream-key field is left empty. A different server may expect a separate key or a different URL format; follow its setup details. MediaMTX’s OBS guide also describes encrypted RTMP publishing with RTMPS and certificate configuration. MediaMTX: OBS Studio publishing guide
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
Choose and secure the right URL
Ask for the playback/read URL, not just the ingest or publish URL. A provider may give separate endpoints, application names, paths or credentials for each role. FFmpeg’s RTMP syntax allows optional credentials, host, port, application, instance and playpath, but the server determines which components and authentication method are valid. FFmpeg protocol documentation
rtmp:// is not encrypted. RTMPS is the TLS-encrypted RTMP variant. Use an RTMPS endpoint only when both the client and server support it, and ensure the server certificate is trusted and configured correctly. MediaMTX documents RTMPS publishing setup; the provider or server administrator should supply the secure endpoint and any certificate requirements. MediaMTX: OBS Studio publishing guide
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
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.
Troubleshoot a failed pull
- No stream or connection closes immediately: Confirm a publisher is live and sending to the exact path requested by the reader.
- Connection refused or times out: Check the hostname, port, server status and network reachability. A local URL using
localhostrefers to the machine running the client, not a remote server. - Authentication or path error: Verify credentials, application and playpath with the server administrator. Do not substitute a publishing key for read credentials unless the service explicitly says to do so.
- The URL connects but yields no playable output: Confirm you were given a read endpoint and that the server has an active stream at that path.
- FFmpeg reads but the saved file will not play: Check whether the copied codecs are supported by the selected container. Stream copy does not re-encode or make incompatible codecs compatible.
- RTMPS fails while RTMP works: Verify the secure endpoint, client/server support and certificate trust. Plain RTMP is not a secure fallback for sensitive or public-network traffic.
MediaMTX documents RTMP reading with FFmpeg, while its FFmpeg reading page recommends RTSP for its own read workflow. That is a MediaMTX-specific recommendation, not a universal ranking of streaming protocols; choose based on the endpoints and client support available for your setup. MediaMTX: Read with FFmpeg
Managed RTMP pull and DIY serving
For a self-hosted experiment, MediaMTX plus FFmpeg supplies documented publish and read examples, and OBS can act as the publisher. If you do not want to operate a server, a managed ingest service may offer RTMP pull inputs; for example, the AWS Elemental MediaLive user guide describes an RTMP pull input with one or two source URLs. Verify that a given service’s URL, authentication, supported codecs, security settings and terms fit your workflow. Current prices and partner terms are not established here. AWS Elemental MediaLive User Guide
Or let it run in the cloud
RTMP pull is for reading an existing server stream. If your goal instead is to keep uploaded videos playing live on a YouTube channel, StreamNeo is a separate cloud workflow: upload a recording or playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, then go live. StreamNeo loops the uploaded video in the cloud, so your computer and home connection do not need to stay on. It supports the upload’s quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream, and the first day is free with no card. Monthly access is $9.99 per month. Start the free first day with StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
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.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute
