To loop a local 4K 60fps MP4 in OBS, add it to your live scene as a Media Source, select the file, and enable Loop. That avoids a separate conversion of the file before streaming—but it does not eliminate live encoding: OBS still has to encode an outgoing stream for YouTube.
Loop one MP4 in OBS
- Open the OBS scene you plan to stream.
- In the Sources box, select + and choose Media Source.
- Name the source if desired, then browse to and select your MP4.
- Enable Loop so playback starts again when the file finishes.
- Keep the Media Source visible in the scene that is being streamed. Preview the scene and confirm the video and audio play as expected.
OBS documents MP4 as a supported Media Source video format, and defines Loop as replaying the file after playback completes. The OBS Project page describing this control is dated 2022-01-11: OBS Media Sources documentation.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Choose what happens when the source becomes active
Restart playback when source becomes active restarts the file when the source is in the current scene and visible. Leave it enabled if making the scene active should start the video from the beginning. If you switch away and back, consider whether restarting or resuming better fits your broadcast.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteHardware decoding is optional
Use hardware decoding when available lets OBS use the GPU to decode certain file types when the GPU has a suitable built-in decoder. It is conditional, not a guarantee that every 4K60 MP4 will play smoothly. It affects file playback decoding, not the encoder that produces the outgoing live stream.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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.
Loop a playlist instead of one file
For multiple files, OBS documents the VLC Video Source, which supports a file list and a Loop Playlist property. VLC must be installed for this source to appear in OBS. For one MP4, Media Source with Loop is the simpler route; for a playlist, use VLC Video Source and confirm VLC is installed. See the OBS Media Sources documentation.
What “without re-encoding” means here
With this setup, OBS plays the MP4 directly rather than requiring you to make a separate converted copy first. But it is not file passthrough: OBS must encode the live output using an encoder configuration suitable for YouTube. YouTube also transcodes incoming live streams into multiple viewing formats. The source MP4 and the stream sent to YouTube are therefore distinct stages.
Rank #2
- 【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
Set the outgoing YouTube stream for 4K60
Choose output settings for the codec and resolution you intend OBS to send, not merely the properties of the source file. YouTube’s current help guidance for 2160p (4K) at 60 fps gives these bitrate ranges:
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
| Outgoing codec | Minimum bitrate | Recommended bitrate |
|---|---|---|
| H.264 | 14 Mbps | 50 Mbps |
| AV1 or H.265 | 10 Mbps | 35 Mbps |
These are YouTube’s platform ingest recommendations, not guarantees of playback quality or settings for the MP4 itself. YouTube’s encoder guidance also specifies CBR and recommends a two-second keyframe interval, with a maximum of four seconds. For 4K streams, YouTube uses normal latency; its low-latency option is unavailable at 4K. Check the current YouTube Live encoder settings and OBS output controls before going live, since software controls and platform guidance can change.
Rank #3
- 【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
YouTube recommends RTMPS and transcodes incoming live video for viewers. Configure the stream key and ingest connection in OBS and YouTube’s Live Control Room according to their current setup screens; keep the key private. For connection guidance, see YouTube’s guidance for streaming with an encoder.
Test before going live
- Check that the OBS preview shows the intended scene and the Media Source is visible.
- Play a representative section and listen for audio; include motion as well as static imagery in the test.
- Verify OBS is sending the intended resolution, frame rate, codec, bitrate mode, and keyframe interval.
- Run a private or otherwise appropriate test stream and watch YouTube Live Control Room’s stream health before the real broadcast.
YouTube explicitly advises testing before starting a live stream and monitoring stream health. A test also helps reveal whether your computer can decode the particular MP4 and encode the selected live output together.
Rank #4
- 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
Troubleshoot common problems
- The video stops at the end: Reopen the Media Source properties and confirm Loop is enabled.
- The file does not appear or play: Confirm the selected path points to the intended local MP4 and try opening it in a player. OBS documents MP4 support, but that does not establish that every codec or file variant will work on every system.
- The source is missing from the stream: Ensure it is visible in the scene currently being streamed and that another source is not covering it.
- Playback restarts after scene changes: Review Restart playback when source becomes active and decide whether restarting on reactivation is intended.
- The PC struggles with 4K60: Hardware decoding may help only when the file type and GPU decoder are supported. Test the actual file and outgoing encoder load; the available guidance does not establish that all systems can play and stream every 4K60 MP4 smoothly.
- YouTube reports poor stream health: Check the outgoing codec’s bitrate against YouTube’s guidance, confirm CBR and keyframe interval, and verify your upload capacity and RTMPS connection. Re-test before the event.
- The loop has a visible or audible break: OBS’s Loop setting restarts playback, but a seamless visual or audio transition is not guaranteed. Inspect the file’s beginning and end and test the loop in preview.
Copyright and YouTube policy checks
Having permission to play an MP4 locally does not by itself establish that you may broadcast its audio and video. Before streaming, confirm you have the rights needed for public live transmission, including music, performances, artwork, and any third-party material in the file. YouTube may apply its copyright systems to live content. Also make sure the channel and stream comply with YouTube’s current live-streaming and monetization policies; looping a file is a technical method, not a guarantee of monetization eligibility or policy compliance. See YouTube’s copyright guidance and YouTube channel monetization policies.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want a YouTube channel to keep uploaded video live without leaving a computer running, StreamNeo uploads and loops recordings from the cloud. Upload your video, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It is for uploaded videos and streams to YouTube; it is not a camera-live service.
Quick Recap
- Nothing has to stay on at home; the stream runs in the cloud.
- One flat price per slot for any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps, with no re-encode or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free, with no card required.
Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Start your free first day with StreamNeo.
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.
