Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Castr can loop pre-recorded video to YouTube continuously, but its published settings recommend 1080p and do not establish that its scheduler outputs 4K. YouTube’s ability to accept a 4K live feed does not confirm that Castr’s pre-recorded workflow preserves 3840×2160. If 4K is essential, ask Castr whether the scheduler sends 2160p before building an always-on channel.
What Castr’s documentation confirms—and what it does not
- Continuous playback: Castr’s pre-recorded streaming feature offers an Infinite Loop mode that sends uploaded video to added platforms continuously, 24/7. Its setup guide also describes uploading one or more MP4 files, reordering a playlist, toggling individual items on or off, choosing a schedule and starting the stream. Castr’s pre-recorded setup guide and scheduling modes guide describe the workflow.
- YouTube as a destination: Castr documents both connecting through YouTube Events via API and manually entering YouTube’s streaming server and stream key. Its YouTube connection guide covers these options.
- 4K output: Castr’s recorded-video guide recommends 1920×1080 (Full HD), not 3840×2160. The published information does not establish whether the pre-recorded scheduler preserves 4K input or downscales it. Castr’s recorded-video settings therefore do not support a confident claim that this workflow streams in 4K.
YouTube separately documents 4K/2160p live ingestion and automatic transcoding for viewer formats, but that describes YouTube’s side of the connection, not Castr’s scheduler output. YouTube’s live encoder settings guidance is the place to check the current bitrate recommendation for your chosen codec and frame rate.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How to set up a continuous pre-recorded stream
- Check your Castr account and plan. Castr says its pre-recorded feature is available across plans, while media size and file-count limits depend on the subscription. Confirm the current plan also permits the Infinite Loop mode for your account; do not infer that every plan includes every scheduling option.
- Prepare MP4 video. The setup guide says the scheduler accepts .mp4 files. Castr’s 2023 recorded-video recommendations are constant bitrate (CBR), a 2-second keyframe interval, 1920×1080 resolution, 30 FPS and 4,000 Kbps (4.0 Mbps). These are Castr’s recommendations for recorded-video streams, not proof of 4K support. Castr warns that a video outside its suggested configuration may cause the live broadcast to stop.
- Upload and arrange the playlist. Add one or more files, put them in the desired order and disable any playlist item you do not want played. Confirm the upload and file sizes fit your plan.
- Choose the schedule. Select Infinite Loop to repeat the uploaded video or playlist continuously on the added platforms. Date & Time instead sets a future start; it is not the continuous-repeat choice. Check that the mode is available in your account before relying on it for an always-on channel.
- Add YouTube. Connect through the API/YouTube Events flow, or use the manual streaming-server and stream-key option. If you use a manual key, Castr says stream descriptions must be edited in YouTube’s dashboard.
- Start with a test, then monitor. Before depending on the channel, check YouTube’s stream health and confirm what resolution viewers actually receive. YouTube recommends testing and monitoring; its encoder guidance lists 35 Mbps for H.264 at 4K/2160p and 60 FPS, but bitrate varies by codec and frame rate, so consult its current table for your exact output. YouTube says low latency is unavailable for 4K/2160p, which is optimized for quality at normal latency.
Choose the schedule and YouTube connection that fit
Loop or Date & Time
| Mode | What it does | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Infinite Loop | Repeats uploaded video or a playlist continuously, 24/7, on added platforms. | An always-on channel that should keep replaying its content. |
| Date & Time | Sets a future start for the scheduled stream. | A stream that should begin at a chosen time rather than run as a continuous loop. |
Availability and upload limits depend on the current Castr plan and account. Confirm those details in Castr before scheduling.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
API connection or manual stream key
- API/YouTube Events: Use Castr’s documented API connection flow if you want to connect through YouTube Events.
- Manual server and key: Enter YouTube’s streaming server and stream key in Castr. If you choose this method, edit the stream description in YouTube’s dashboard.
What to verify before calling it a 4K stream
- Ask Castr specifically whether its pre-recorded streaming scheduler sends 3840×2160 to YouTube or downscales the uploaded file. Ask about the account plan and loop mode you intend to use.
- Check the outgoing resolution in a test stream; a 4K source file alone does not prove the service is sending 2160p.
- Confirm YouTube’s stream health and the codec-specific bitrate recommended for your frame rate using its current encoder table.
- Check YouTube’s copyright rules and ensure you have rights to stream every video and audio track. A 24/7 loop does not exempt a channel from copyright or other YouTube policies.
Castr’s separate TV Playout plan matrix lists 1080p as the highest output resolution for the relevant advanced settings, but TV Playout is a different Castr workflow; it does not establish the pre-recorded scheduler’s behavior. No independent scheduler test or direct current confirmation of its 4K output is established here.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
Capture Card, 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Game Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS Video Capture Device, HDMI to USB 3.0 Capture Card for Streaming, Work with Camera/Xbox/PS4/PS5/PC/OBS
- 【1080P HD High Quality】Capture resolution up to 1080p for video source and it is ideal for all HDMI devices such as PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, DVDs, DSLR, Camera, Security Camera and set top box. Note: Video input supports 4K30/60Hz and 1080p120/144Hz. Does not support 4K120Hz/144Hz. Output supports up to 2K30Hz.
- 【Plug and Play】No driver or external power supply required, true PnP. Once plugged in, the device is identified automatically as a webcam. Detect input and adjust output automatically. Won't occupy CPU, optional audio capture. No freeze with correct setting.
- 【Compatible with Multiple Systems】suitable for Windows and Mac OS. High speed USB 3.0 technology and superior low latency technology makes it easier for you to transmit live streaming to Twitch, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, OBS, Potplayer and VLC.
- 【HDMI LOOP-OUT】Based on the high-speed USB 3.0 technology, it can capture one single channel HD HDMI video signal. There is no delay when you are playing game live.
- 【Support Mic-in for Commentary】Rybozen capture card has microphone input and you can use it to add external commentary when playing a game. Please note: it only accepts 3.5mm TRS standard microphone headset.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a continuously looping YouTube channel rather than specifically using Castr, StreamNeo is a cloud option: upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it streams uploaded video at the quality supplied up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, and it automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. UPI works for customers in India. Start your free day on StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 1
Bestseller No. 2
Rank #4
Sale
Elgato Cam Link 4K Capture Card for DSLR, Camcorder, Action Cam | HDMI to USB 3.0, Stream in 1080p60 or 4K30/60, Ultra-low latency, Works with OBS, Zoom, Discord, PC/Mac/iPad compatible
- Turn Your Camera into a Pro Webcam: Connect your DSLR or mirrorless camera to any computer and go live in stunning quality
- Stunning quality: Stream and record in 1080p60 or even 4K60 for razor-sharp detail (Requires a compatible camera and the latest Cam Link 4K model)
- Connect More Than Just Cameras: Use a camcorder, action cam, or even your iPhone to level up your content
- No Lag, No Delays: Ultra-low latency keeps your video and audio perfectly in sync, just like it should be
- Your iPad, Now a Pro Field Monitor: Preview your shots in real time on an iPad with USB-C
Rank #3
Guermok Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P 60FPS & 2K 30FPS | Capture Card for Streaming, Compatible with iPad Mac OS Windows, Quest 3, OBS, PS5/4, Switch2/1, Xbox, Camera (Silver)
- 【1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card】 This HDMI game capture card is based on USB3.0 high speed transmission port, input resolution up to 4K@30HZ, output resolution up to 2K@30Hz or 1920×1080@60Hz. Type c and USB interface can meet most of the devices in daily life. Easily meet the online capture, real-time recording, online meetings, live gaming and other functions, so you have a better visual enjoyment. Note: For capture use only; requires capture software to function and is not intended for direct screen casting to a monitor or TV
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】 HDMI capture card is made of good quality aluminum alloy with strong heat dissipation, allowing you to enjoy ultra low latency while live gaming or video recording or live streaming, avoiding blue screens and lag. This HDMI to USBC capture card supports easy recording of good quality audio or HD video and transferring it to your computer or streaming platform, allowing you to record 60 fps HD video directly on your hard drive and real-time preview
- 【Plug and Play, Easy to Carry】 This HDMI 1080P video capture card does not require any additional drivers or external power supply, just plug and play for fast capture. The capture card is small and lightweight, so you can put it in your bag for emergencies, making it very portable for outdoor live streaming. It's also a great way to share content in game recording, video conference, video recorder and online teaching
- 【Wide Compatibility USB Capture Card】 Easily streams to Facebook, Youtube or Twitch. With the connection, this HDMI to USB C/3.0 video capture devices can be working on several Operating Systems and various software: Windows 7/ 8/ 10, Mac OS or above, Linux, Android, Laptop, Xbox One, PS3/PS4/PS5, Camera, DVDs, Set Top Box, Webcame, DSLR, Switch/Switch 2, TV BOX, HDTV, Potplayer/VLC, ZOOM, OBS Studio etc.
- 【Package Content & Note】 1x HD Audio Capture Card , 1x USB 3.0 to USB C Adapter (A-side 3.0, B-side 2.0), 1x user manual. Please note that you need to restart the OBS Studio software after the audio setup is complete, otherwise it will result in no sound output. When using an adapter, if the device is recognized as USB 2.0, try using the other side with the USB-C port. Simply flip the capture card and reconnect it to be recognized as USB 3.0
Rank #2
4K Video Capture Card, HDMI to USB Capture Card 1080P for Streaming, Recording, Gaming, Compatible with Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox
- 【1080P 30FPS Full HD Recording】The HDMI capture card connects to your video source and computer, and captures high-definition video up to 1080p 60fps
- 【HDMI Video Capture】Based on high-speed USB 2.0 technology, you can capture a high-definition HDMI video and HDMI audio signal of a signal channel, sending audio and video signals to computers /pc. The gaming capture card is suitable for devices with HDMI output, such as devices for PS4, for Xbox one, for Wii U and for Switch
- 【Screen Sharing for Meetings】The video capture card is a fast, familiar and economical way to share content in conference rooms and online meetings. Connect to presentations without software, just connect to a laptop or tablet via HDMI to start sharing
- 【Plug and Play】This USB capture card does not need to install a driver, so you can use the built-in functions of the current software to get a seamless experience. Because the video capture device is compatible with most third-party software, it can be plug-and-play for Windows, for Ma OS X, and for Linux. The USB2.0 high-speed transmission port makes it easier for you to have real-time streaming for Twitch, for Youtube, for OBS, for Potplayer and for VLC
- 【Compact & Portable】The capture card is small size & easy to carry, convenient for outdoor and indoor live broadcasting. We provide 30 days no question asked money back and lifetime technical support, if you have any problem, please feel free to contact us
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.
