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To repeat a video during a YouTube livestream in Streamlabs Desktop, add the file as a media source in your scene, enable its loop or repeat option in the source properties, and check playback and audio in the preview. Looping the file does not start the broadcast: you still need to go live through Streamlabs’ normal streaming flow.
Loop a local video in Streamlabs Desktop
- Open the scene you want to use. In Streamlabs Desktop, select the scene for your broadcast. In its Sources panel, click the plus button to add a source. Streamlabs’ getting-started guide describes this source-add workflow.
- Add the video as a media source. Choose the media-source option, then select the video file stored on your computer. Streamlabs documents regular media files such as MP4, GIF, and MP3 as media sources in its article on media file caching.
- Turn on looping in the source properties. Open the media source’s properties and enable its loop or repeat playback option. The exact checkbox wording and placement can vary by installed release; the official sources do not establish a current, version-specific label, so check the properties shown in your version rather than relying on a precise label from an older screenshot.
- Confirm the scene before broadcasting. Start or preview playback, verify that the video is visible and correctly positioned, and check that its audio is audible at an appropriate level. Make sure the source is enabled and layered so another source is not covering it; Streamlabs’ quick-start guide notes that source order affects what appears in the scene.
- Start the YouTube livestream separately. Once the scene is ready, use Streamlabs’ normal go-live process to begin the broadcast. The loop setting repeats media playback; it does not itself start a YouTube stream.
What the loop setting does—and does not do
A looping media source plays the selected local file again when playback reaches its end. It is the direct choice when you want one file to repeat as part of a Streamlabs scene. It does not create a continuous stream independently of Streamlabs Desktop: the computer running the broadcast must remain available for the desktop setup to keep streaming.
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Do not confuse a local media source with Streamlabs Media Share. Media Share is a separate widget for viewer-requested public YouTube videos; its support article does not document it as the way to loop a local file.
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Check file rights and stream performance
Use media you are allowed to broadcast
Before going live, make sure you have permission to stream the video and its audio. The sources cited here do not establish whether a particular file is permitted under YouTube’s current rules, so check the applicable YouTube guidance and the rights for your specific material rather than assuming that owning or downloading a copy grants broadcast permission.
#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.
Understand the memory trade-off
Streamlabs’ media-file caching feature reuses decoded frames for looping media, which can reduce repeated decoding work while using memory to hold those frames. In its June 5, 2019 article, last updated January 28, 2022, Streamlabs reported a CPU-usage reduction of more than 35% in its own internal measurements. That historical figure is not a guarantee for an individual computer; actual performance depends on the file, scene, and system.
Troubleshoot a video that does not repeat or appear
- The video stops at the end: Reopen the media source properties and confirm that looping is enabled for that source. The setting applies to the media source, not to the scene or the YouTube broadcast as a whole.
- The source is missing from the preview: Confirm the source is enabled and inspect its position in the Sources list. Move it above sources that may cover it, then check its size and placement in the scene.
- The picture appears but there is no sound: Check that the selected file contains audio and inspect the media source’s audio level in Streamlabs. Also check the computer’s output and Streamlabs’ audio meters while the file plays.
- Playback is choppy or the system is under load: Close unnecessary applications and check whether other scene sources are consuming resources. Streamlabs says caching can reduce repeated decoding work for looping media, but it uses memory; the historical internal result is not a performance promise for your setup.
- The video loops locally but viewers cannot see the broadcast: Verify that the broadcast itself has been started through the normal go-live flow and that the correct scene is active. A source’s repeat setting does not launch a livestream.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you need a pre-recorded video or playlist to keep a YouTube channel live without leaving Streamlabs Desktop and your computer running, StreamNeo is a cloud option: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; your uploaded video streams as made, at any quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, and StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo is for prerecorded video on YouTube, not camera broadcasting. Start your free day on StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Seamless Broadcasting and Versatile Streaming: Connect effortlessly to any app such as OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Restream, Zoom, Teams, and stream flawlessly on various platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Discord, Facebook Gaming, etc., providing you with unparalleled flexibility and reach.
- Next-gen capture: Unleash the full potential of your content with cutting-edge 4K resolution, delivering crystal-clear visuals at an impressive 144 frames per second.
- HDMI 2.1 in/out: Elevate your recording capabilities with HDMI 2.1 support, allowing you to document high frame rates up to 240fps in glorious 1080p resolution for an unparalleled viewing experience.
- VRR passthrough: Immerse yourself completely in the gaming experience as our Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) passthrough ensures flawlessly smooth gameplay, eliminating screen tearing for an uninterrupted visual feast.
- Ultra-low latency: Stay in the moment with ultra-low latency powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2, ensuring your broadcast and gameplay remain perfectly synchronized, delivering an immersive and responsive streaming experience.
Rank #3
- High-Quality Video Capture, 4K HDMI Capture Card Ready: Capture smooth and vibrant video with this 4K HDMI capture card, engineered for gamers and content creators who demand crisp 1080P 60FPS video quality. Whether you're streaming to Twitch or recording gameplay for YouTube, your footage will look professional and detailed
- Plug-and-Play USB Capture Card, No Drivers Needed: Designed as a USB capture card for streaming, this device works instantly out of the box, just plug into your PC or laptop and start capturing. Fully compatible with popular software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit, making setup quick and stress-free for beginners and pros alike
- Universal Compatibility PS5, Xbox, Switch & More: Stream or record gameplay from virtually any HDMI-enabled device including Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X, DSLR cameras, and PCs. The video capture card for gaming supports seamless passthrough so you can play without lag while your audience watches every frame in real time
- Low-Latency Performance for Smooth Streaming: This capture card for streaming minimizes delay between gameplay and broadcast, so you get reliable, low-latency capture that works well for competitive gaming, live broadcasts, and podcast sessions. Suitable for those building their channel with high-quality, engaging content
- Compact & Portable Design for Content Creators: Lightweight and portable, this USB 3.0 capture card works well for creators who travel or switch gaming setups often. Throw it in your bag and stream or record wherever you are, at home, events, LAN parties, streaming or studio sessions
Rank #2
- 【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
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