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Compare four separate limits: the maximum size of one uploaded file, its maximum duration, the capacity and retention of the service’s video library, and how long the outgoing YouTube broadcast can run. They are not interchangeable. A service may limit an individual prerecorded file while still supporting a continuous stream assembled from a playlist; YouTube’s archive limit is another separate constraint.
The figures below reflect the vendor documentation cited here as of October 3, 2026. Plan names and limits can change, so confirm the current terms for your region and plan before subscribing.
Which limit are you trying to compare?
- Maximum upload size: the largest permitted individual file, usually expressed in GB.
- Maximum file duration: how long one uploaded video may run, usually expressed in hours or minutes.
- Library capacity: how much content the account can store, how many files it can hold, and how long uploads are retained.
- Broadcast duration: how long the service can keep an outgoing live stream running. This may depend on plan, subscription status, bandwidth, and service maintenance.
- Archive duration: how much of a stream YouTube saves as a replay. This is controlled by YouTube, not the upload-file cap.
When a service advertises “24/7 streaming,” that describes broadcast behavior, not necessarily the maximum duration of one source file. Check whether it loops or schedules videos, supports playlists, and what happens if the service or destination disconnects.
Compare published limits by service
The table separates published per-file caps from storage and continuous-stream claims. “Not stated” means the cited vendor material does not establish a comparable figure; it is not evidence that the service has no limit.
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#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.
| Service | Per-file size | Per-file duration | Storage and retention | Continuous broadcast |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| StreamNeo | Not stated as a GB maximum; each slot includes 10 GB storage, pooled across active slots. | Not stated as a maximum per-file duration. | 10 GB per slot, pooled across active slots; retention period and file-count cap not stated. | Loops uploaded videos and playlists to YouTube from the cloud. One stream per slot; automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. Any quality up to 4K 60fps as uploaded, with no re-encode. |
| StreamYard | Core: 10 GB; Advanced: 25 GB; Teams: 25 GB; Business: 25 GB. | Core: 2 hours; Advanced: 4 hours; Teams: 8 hours; Business: 8 hours. | Library capacity and retention not stated in the cited pages. | Per-file prerecorded-video figures do not establish that a single file can run continuously for 24 hours. |
| Restream | Plan-dependent; exact cap not stated on the reviewed help page. | Plan-dependent; the product page shows library durations of 2, 4, and 12 hours for displayed plan options, but does not establish these as single-file maximums. | Upload count varies by plan. Free uploads are stored for 30 days; paid uploads remain unless manually deleted. | Product page advertises continuous streaming. Restream warns that its server may undergo maintenance and restart during a continuous stream over 24 hours and suggests restarting every 24 hours. |
| Castr | Not stated in the cited pages as a comparable cap. | Simulive prerecorded files: 60–240 minutes depending on plan. | Storage capacity and retention not stated in the cited pages. | Its help page says continuous event duration is unlimited while the subscription remains active and sufficient streaming bandwidth is available. This is separate from simulive file duration. |
| Gyre | Not stated in the reviewed product page. | Not stated in the reviewed product page. | Describes plan-specific storage; exact comparable figures are not established here. | Describes uploading videos, creating playlists, and launching 24/7 broadcasts, with plan-specific simultaneous-stream figures. |
StreamYard’s figures are published per-plan prerecorded-file limits, not continuous-broadcast durations. Restream’s 2-, 4-, and 12-hour library durations should not be treated as verified single-file caps. Castr’s unlimited event-duration claim is conditional and does not remove the separate simulive file limit. Gyre’s 24/7 workflow is documented, but the reviewed material does not supply the exact size and duration numbers needed for a numeric per-file comparison.
What the named services document
StreamNeo: cloud looping for YouTube
StreamNeo keeps a YouTube channel live from uploaded videos: upload a recording or make a playlist, add the YouTube stream key, and start the stream. Its stated limits are 10 GB storage per slot, pooled across active slots, and output up to 4K 60fps as uploaded; a maximum single-file size or duration is not stated here. A slot provides one always-on stream, 24/7 looping and playlists, and automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The service streams to YouTube only.
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.
StreamYard: clearest published per-file table
StreamYard’s help pages list Core at 10 GB and 2 hours, Advanced at 25 GB and 4 hours, and Teams and Business at 25 GB and 8 hours per prerecorded file. Its format guidance supports MP4 and MOV and recommends H.264 video with AAC audio. These figures answer the size and duration of an upload, not how long a playlist or outgoing stream can run.
Restream: distinguish uploads from library durations
Restream’s help page says upload count, file size, and duration vary by plan, without giving exact caps on the reviewed page. It accepts MP4, MOV, M4V, and MKV. Free uploads are retained for 30 days; paid uploads remain until manually deleted. The product page displays library durations of 2, 4, and 12 hours for plan options, but those are not established as maximum durations for a single file.
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.
Castr: continuous-event duration versus simulive file duration
Castr’s help page describes continuous event duration as unlimited while a subscription is active and sufficient streaming bandwidth is available. Its separate simulive product page gives plan-dependent maximum prerecorded file durations from 60 to 240 minutes. Treat these as different capabilities: the event-duration statement does not make an individual uploaded video unlimited.
Gyre: 24/7 workflow, but no comparable per-file figures here
Gyre’s product page describes uploading videos, building playlists, and launching 24/7 broadcasts, with storage and simultaneous-stream options varying by plan. The reviewed page does not establish a comparable exact maximum upload size or single-file duration, so verify those limits directly for the plan under consideration.
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
Check YouTube’s destination limits separately
Restream’s YouTube guidance says YouTube has no stream-duration limit, but archives only streams shorter than 12 hours. An outgoing stream that continues beyond that threshold and the replay saved by YouTube are therefore separate issues: do not assume the full broadcast will be available as an archive. Restream separately notes possible maintenance restarts on its own servers during streams longer than 24 hours and suggests restarting every 24 hours. Neither statement changes an individual upload’s size or duration cap.
Technical settings in Restream’s YouTube guidance
Restream’s guidance, dated July 9, 2026, lists these settings for streaming to YouTube. They are vendor-documented recommendations and ranges, not a guarantee that every encoder or service uses identical defaults.
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.
- Video codec: H.264.
- Resolution: 240p–2160p.
- Video bitrate: 3,000–40,000 Kbps, depending on resolution and frame rate.
- Frame rate: up to 60 fps.
- Keyframes: recommended every 2 seconds; maximum interval 4 seconds.
- Audio: AAC or MP3.
Check the destination’s current guidance and the encoder’s output settings if you are configuring your own stream. A format accepted for upload is not automatically a recommendation for every broadcast configuration.
A practical checklist before choosing a plan
- Write down the largest source file and longest individual video. Compare both against explicit per-file limits, not a service’s 24/7 headline.
- Estimate the whole library. Check total storage, file-count limits, and retention. If content is deleted after a period or requires manual removal, include that in your workflow.
- Confirm supported formats and encoding. For example, StreamYard lists MP4 and MOV and recommends H.264/AAC; Restream lists MP4, MOV, M4V, and MKV.
- Check how continuous playback works. Establish whether the service loops a file, rotates a playlist, supports schedules, how many simultaneous streams the plan permits, and whether recovery is automatic after a disconnect.
- Check bandwidth, billing, and service continuity conditions. Castr’s unlimited event-duration statement depends on sufficient bandwidth and an active subscription; Restream notes possible maintenance restarts over 24 hours.
- Separate streaming from archiving. Confirm what the service sends and what YouTube saves. Restream’s documented guidance says YouTube archives streams under 12 hours.
- Verify the current plan terms before paying. Vendor pages and YouTube rules can change; check the exact plan and destination settings on the day you subscribe.
Formats, backups, and storage pitfalls
Do not use library storage as a substitute for a backup. Restream says its cloud storage is not a replacement for hard-drive or other backups. Keep an independent copy of source recordings and any downloaded archive you cannot afford to lose. A larger external drive can hold those local copies, but it does not increase an online service’s upload cap.
When evaluating a file limit, check whether the listed number applies to each upload or to the full library. A 10 GB per-file allowance and 10 GB total account storage are materially different constraints. Likewise, the 10 GB per slot in StreamNeo’s stated feature set is storage, not a documented maximum size for a single upload.
Or let it run in the cloud
For a YouTube channel built around uploaded recordings, StreamNeo’s workflow is upload a video or playlist, add your YouTube stream key, then go live. Nothing has to stay powered on at home. It streams the uploaded video as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot, and it automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly access is $9.99 per month.
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Sources
- StreamYard Help Center: “How Long/Large can my Pre-Recorded Video Files be?”
- StreamYard Help Center: “Recommended Video Formats”
- Restream Help Center: “What is my video storage?” (August 5, 2026)
- Restream: “Upload and Stream Pre-Recorded Videos”
- Restream Help Center: “How long can I stream for?”
- Restream Help Center: “Stream to YouTube” (July 9, 2026)
- Castr Help Center: “Livestream 24/7 With Castr” (December 1, 2022)
- Castr: “Live Stream Pre-Recorded Video (Simulive)”
- Gyre: “24/7 YouTube Live Streams of Pre-Recorded Videos”
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.
