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OBS Studio with its VLC Video source is the best-supported free option for looping a playlist of local video files on YouTube Live. Install VLC, add the playlist as a VLC Video source in OBS, enable Loop Playlist, then send OBS’s encoded output to YouTube using a stream key. The trade-off is that playback depends on your computer, files, power and internet connection staying available.
Why OBS Studio is the best free fit
OBS Studio can play a playlist of media files through its VLC Video source. VLC must also be installed on the computer; for 64-bit OBS, OBS recommends installing 64-bit VLC. OBS documents a Loop Playlist control that restarts the source when it reaches the end. It defaults to On, while Shuffle Playlist defaults to Off, so the files play in their selected order unless you change that setting. OBS Project: Media Sources
OBS handles playlist playback and encoding; YouTube Live is the destination. This is a workflow based on the products’ documented controls, not a claim of independent testing.
Set up a looping playlist in OBS and YouTube Live
- Install OBS Studio and VLC. Install both on the computer that will run the broadcast. Match the VLC architecture to OBS; if you use 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC so the VLC Video source is available. OBS Project: Media Sources
- Add the playlist in OBS. Open or create an OBS scene, add a VLC Video source, and select the local media files you want to play. Check the source’s Loop Playlist setting. Leave Shuffle Playlist off if the list should run in its selected order. OBS Project: Media Sources
- Create or select an encoder-based live stream. In YouTube Studio, use the live-stream workflow for an encoder, then enter the stream key in the encoder workflow. YouTube’s interface may change, so follow the labels currently shown in your account. OBS plays and encodes the local playlist; the stream key connects that output to YouTube Live. YouTube Help: Create a YouTube live stream with an encoder YouTube Help: Manage your live stream settings
- Preview and monitor before leaving it unattended. Confirm the playlist advances and loops as intended, and check that the live output is reaching YouTube. If you need an archive, make a local recording as a backup rather than relying on YouTube to retain a long broadcast. YouTube Help: Archive live streams
What to expect from the local-computer method
Advantages
- OBS and VLC provide a free software workflow for playing local media files as a live encoder output.
- You control the playlist order and can choose whether to shuffle. OBS scenes also let you configure the visual layout of the stream.
Limitations
- The computer running OBS, the media files, power and internet connection all need to remain available for the local playback workflow to continue. This is an operational consequence of running the player and encoder locally, not an uptime measurement.
- You are responsible for setting up and monitoring the software and live stream.
- YouTube warns that streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured at all as archives. Streams shorter than 12 hours can be automatically archived, but YouTube recommends keeping a local recording as a backup. Do not assume a continuous 24/7 broadcast will be saved in full. YouTube Help: Archive live streams
Keep the broadcast compliant and preserve what matters
Use media you have the right to broadcast, and check YouTube’s applicable copyright and monetization policies before streaming. A playlist looping successfully in OBS does not establish that its contents are permitted or that a live stream will be eligible for monetization. If you need a complete copy of the broadcast, record locally or schedule shorter sessions with archiving in mind; YouTube cautions that streams exceeding 12 hours may not be captured.
#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.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want YouTube playback to continue without keeping a computer on at home, StreamNeo is a cloud option for uploaded videos and playlists. Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. StreamNeo loops the uploaded videos from the cloud; it does not broadcast a camera feed. Its stated offer is one flat price per slot for the quality you upload, up to 4K 60fps, with no re-encode or quality tiers; it also states that it automatically recovers 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. Start with StreamNeo’s free day.
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.
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.
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