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To keep an OBS YouTube stream going when a video ends, make playback repeat in OBS and keep a valid video feed reaching YouTube. For one file, enable Loop on its Media Source; for multiple files, enable Loop Playlist on a VLC Video source. YouTube’s separate auto-stop setting controls whether you can reconnect to the same broadcast after encoder streaming stops—it does not keep a broadcast alive when no video is arriving.
Choose the right OBS source and enable looping
For one video file: Media Source
- In OBS, add or select the scene containing your video, then add a Media Source and choose the local file.
- Open the source properties and enable Loop. OBS documents this option as repeating the file after playback completes. The exact interface wording can vary by OBS version; the OBS Media Sources documentation was published on January 11, 2022: OBS Media Sources.
- Leave the source active in the scene that is sent to YouTube. Restart playback when source becomes active is for restarting playback when the source is activated; it is not a setting for extending YouTube’s broadcast lifetime.
For several files: VLC Video source
- Install VLC, then add a VLC Video source in OBS and select the files for the playlist.
- Enable Loop Playlist in the source properties. OBS lists it as on by default, but check the setting rather than assuming it is enabled.
- If you use 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC. OBS’s documentation says VLC must be installed for the VLC Video source to appear and specifies matching 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS. See OBS Media Sources.
Set YouTube auto-stop for the reconnect behavior you want
In YouTube Live Control Room, open the broadcast’s settings and review auto-stop. Turn it off if you want the option to reconnect to the existing broadcast after OBS stops streaming. OBS’s YouTube integration warns that with auto-stop enabled, “You will not be able to reconnect.” YouTube describes auto-start and auto-stop as controls for whether streaming can be started or stopped from the encoder. The setting applies to the broadcast; YouTube says reusing a stream copies its auto-start and auto-stop choices. See YouTube’s live stream settings help.
Auto-stop is not a substitute for looping. YouTube says it automatically ends a broadcast around a minute after video stops arriving on the bound live stream. Disabling auto-stop preserves reconnectability, but it does not supply video or keep a no-signal broadcast running indefinitely. The active OBS program output still needs to send video. See Google’s Life of a Broadcast.
Check the stream after setup
- Start the OBS stream and confirm that the video is visible in YouTube Live Control Room.
- Let the file or playlist reach its end. Confirm that OBS starts the file again or advances through the playlist and that YouTube continues receiving video.
- If OBS stops sending, use the broadcast’s auto-stop setting to determine whether reconnecting to the existing broadcast is available. If the broadcast has already ended, reconnectability alone cannot revive it; start or schedule another broadcast as needed.
- Watch YouTube Live Control Room’s stream health. OBS’s Help Portal says a rising dropped-frames counter with a yellow or red connection indicator means the connection to the streaming service is unstable or cannot keep up with the configured bitrate. See OBS Help Portal.
Troubleshoot a playlist that does not keep the stream connected
- The video ends and stays ended: Check that Loop is enabled for a Media Source or Loop Playlist for VLC Video. They are different source settings; YouTube auto-stop does not loop media.
- VLC Video is missing from OBS: Install VLC. If OBS is 64-bit, use 64-bit VLC, as specified in the OBS documentation.
- The broadcast ends despite auto-stop being off: Check whether OBS is still sending video. YouTube’s lifecycle documentation says the broadcast ends around a minute after video stops arriving, so auto-stop off cannot keep a no-signal feed alive indefinitely.
- You cannot reconnect to the existing broadcast: Check whether auto-stop was enabled for that broadcast. OBS’s YouTube integration warns that reconnecting will not be possible with auto-stop enabled. YouTube’s setting is per broadcast, and a reused stream copies its choices.
- Video continues but stream health degrades: Check the dropped-frames counter and connection indicator in Live Control Room. Yellow or red with increasing dropped frames points to an unstable connection or a feed that cannot keep up with its configured bitrate; the cited OBS guidance does not identify a particular cause for an individual connection.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the goal is an always-on YouTube stream without keeping OBS or a computer running at home, StreamNeo runs uploaded videos and playlists from the cloud: upload your video or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; each slot streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, once per account. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month.
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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.
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- 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
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- 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.
#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.
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