Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
OBS Studio is the best starting point for looping prerecorded video on YouTube Live when you want to stream from your own computer. Use a Media Source with Loop enabled for one file, or a VLC Video source with Loop Playlist enabled for multiple files. If you need a stream to continue without a computer running at home, StreamNeo is a cloud option: it loops uploaded videos to YouTube, and the first day is free.
Which software should you use?
| Option | Best for | Local computer must stay on? | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| OBS Studio Media Source | Looping one video file | Yes | Enable the source’s Loop property; OBS restarts the file when playback finishes. |
| OBS Studio VLC Video source | Looping a playlist of files | Yes | Requires VLC installed. OBS documents that 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. |
| StreamNeo | Keeping uploaded videos looping from the cloud | No | It streams uploaded videos to YouTube; upload a video or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. |
OBS gives you local control over scenes and overlays, but the computer and internet connection running OBS must remain available. StreamNeo is #1 for a hands-off continuous stream: it runs from the cloud, supports any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and offers a free first day.
What you need before starting
- A YouTube channel eligible for livestreaming. YouTube says channels need verification and must not have livestreaming restrictions in the prior 90 days. See YouTube’s live-streaming eligibility guidance.
- OBS Studio installed, plus the prerecorded video file or files you plan to stream.
- A stable computer and network connection for the entire broadcast if you use OBS locally.
- Rights to stream the video and audio. All live content must comply with YouTube’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Service; see YouTube’s live-streaming requirements.
How to loop a video on YouTube Live with OBS
1. Enable livestreaming and choose encoder streaming
- In YouTube Studio, start the live-stream setup and select the encoder workflow. YouTube’s encoder instructions apply to an OBS media-source setup. Follow the on-screen prompts to create or schedule the stream.
- Copy the stream key from YouTube Studio. Treat it like a password: anyone who has it may be able to stream to your channel. Do not publish it or include it in screenshots.
2. Add a single video and turn on Loop
- In OBS, open the scene you want to use. In the Sources panel, select + and choose Media Source.
- Name the source, then select the video file. Enable Loop in the source properties. OBS’s Media Sources documentation says this restarts the file after playback completes.
- Adjust the source in the preview so it fits the canvas. Check that the video is visible and that its audio is routed as intended in the Audio Mixer.
3. Loop a playlist instead
- Install VLC before adding the source. In OBS’s Sources panel, select + and choose VLC Video.
- Add the files to the playlist in the source properties and enable Loop Playlist. OBS notes that VLC must be installed for this source to appear, and 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC.
- Confirm the playlist order and preview transitions between files before going live.
4. Connect OBS to YouTube and preview
- In OBS, open Settings and select Stream. Choose YouTube as the service and enter the stream key from YouTube Studio, using the connection method presented by your OBS version.
- Start streaming from OBS. In YouTube Studio, wait for the incoming preview and check the picture and audio before selecting the control to go live, if your workflow requires a separate confirmation.
- Monitor the broadcast while it runs. YouTube advises creators to preview the stream and check audio and video quality.
Test before relying on the stream
Use OBS’s Auto-Configuration Wizard to account for your hardware and network conditions, then test the setup for a few minutes before a consequential broadcast. Check that the file restarts or the playlist cycles correctly, audio remains audible, and YouTube continues receiving the encoder feed. OBS’s Quick Start Guide recommends testing settings briefly rather than assuming a configuration will work unattended.
For continuous operation, remember that a local OBS stream depends on the computer and network staying available. A sleep setting, restart, power cut, or internet interruption can stop the broadcast; test the actual conditions in which you plan to run it.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- 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.
Copyright and YouTube policy checks
Having a file available does not mean you have permission to broadcast it. Confirm you have the rights to every video, music track, image, and other element in the stream. YouTube requires live content to follow its Community Guidelines and Terms of Service. A looped or prerecorded format does not remove those obligations. Review YouTube’s current notices and policies in YouTube Studio before a long-running stream.
Common problems and fixes
- The VLC Video source is missing: install VLC, then restart OBS and check again. Match VLC’s architecture to OBS; OBS documents that 64-bit OBS needs 64-bit VLC.
- The video plays once and stops: open the Media Source properties and enable Loop. For a multi-file source, enable Loop Playlist.
- YouTube does not show an incoming preview: confirm encoder streaming is selected, the stream key is current and copied correctly, and OBS is actively sending the stream. Check YouTube Studio’s status and OBS’s connection indicators.
- There is no audio or it is distorted: verify the source has audio, inspect its meter in OBS’s Audio Mixer, and listen to the YouTube preview before going live.
- The stream stops when unattended: check that the computer is not sleeping, the network remains connected, and the device has reliable power. Local software cannot continue streaming after the host computer or connection goes offline.
- The video is cropped or has empty space: resize or fit the source in the OBS preview and compare it with the stream canvas before broadcasting.
Or let it run in the cloud
StreamNeo keeps uploaded videos looping on YouTube from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It supports any quality up to 4K 60fps as uploaded at one price per slot, automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream, and the first day is free with no card. The Monthly plan is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo for details, or start your free first day.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 5
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 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
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- 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
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- 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
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 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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