Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesTo play several MP4 files one after another and repeat the list, add an OBS VLC Video Source, add your files to its playlist in the order you want, and leave Loop Playlist enabled. VLC must be installed on your computer; if OBS is 64-bit, install 64-bit VLC. Then connect OBS to YouTube with your server URL and stream key, and check the preview in YouTube’s Live Control Room before starting the broadcast.
Choose the right OBS source
| What you want to play | OBS source | Loop setting | Dependency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Several MP4 files in sequence, repeating as one list | VLC Video Source | Loop Playlist | VLC must be installed. OBS requires 64-bit VLC when using 64-bit OBS. |
| One MP4 file repeated | Media Source | Loop | Media Source is built into OBS and supports common formats including MP4. |
Use VLC Video Source for a multi-file playlist. The Media Source’s Loop control repeats an individual file; it is not the documented workflow for looping a list.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Set up a looping MP4 playlist
- Install VLC if needed. If VLC Video Source does not appear in OBS, install VLC. Match its architecture to OBS: OBS specifically requires 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS.
- Add the source. In the OBS Sources dock, select + and choose VLC Video Source. Add it to the scene you intend to stream.
- Build the playlist. Add the MP4 files to the source’s playlist in the order you want them to play. Check the list before going live so it contains the intended files and sequence.
- Enable looping. Leave Loop Playlist on. OBS documents it as enabled by default; it restarts playback when the source reaches the end of its media list.
- Choose whether to shuffle. Keep Shuffle Playlist off if the files should play in file-list order. OBS documents shuffle as off by default. Turn it on only if you want the playlist order randomized.
- Set behavior when the source is hidden. Choose whether playback should continue, pause, or stop when the source is not visible in the scene. OBS documents the default as “Stop when not visible, restart when visible.” This setting affects playback of the source while hidden; it does not stop or start the YouTube broadcast.
- Check the scene. Confirm the VLC source is visible in the scene and that its video and audio appear as intended. Test the playlist through its end if you need to verify the transition back to the first file.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- Get the connection details. In YouTube Studio’s Live Control Room, obtain the server URL and stream key for the stream.
- Enter them in OBS. Open OBS stream settings and enter YouTube’s server URL and stream key. Treat the key as private: anyone with access to it may be able to send a broadcast to your channel.
- Inspect the preview. Check the incoming stream in YouTube’s Live Control Room before you go live. Verify that the playlist is playing, the scene is correct, and audio is present.
- Test before relying on it. OBS recommends checking settings and running a test for a few minutes. YouTube says first-time live-streaming activation can take up to 24 hours, so do not leave activation until just before an event.
Plan for a stable broadcast
The playlist loop controls the playback of media inside OBS; it does not guarantee that the YouTube broadcast itself will remain connected. YouTube recommends a reliable network and enough upload bandwidth for the outgoing stream, with room to spare. A playlist can keep returning to its first file while a network or encoder problem still interrupts the broadcast.
- Test the complete scene and YouTube connection before an event rather than checking only that the files play locally.
- Make sure your upload capacity can support the outgoing stream and leave bandwidth headroom for other network use.
- A wired Ethernet connection may be worth considering if both the streaming computer and router support it and you are addressing connection reliability; it is optional, not a required part of playlist looping.
Troubleshoot common problems
VLC Video Source is missing
Install VLC and restart OBS if necessary. If OBS is 64-bit, use 64-bit VLC. The VLC source depends on VLC being installed, whereas Media Source is built into OBS.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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
The files do not play in the expected order
Review the playlist and put the files in the desired sequence. Check that Shuffle Playlist is off if you want file-list order.
The list stops after the last file
Open the VLC Video Source settings and check that Loop Playlist is enabled. That control repeats the list after its final item.
Rank #2
- 【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.
Playback stops when you switch scenes
Check the source’s visibility behavior. The documented default stops playback when the source is not visible and restarts it when visible. Choose a continue, pause, or stop behavior that matches how you use the source in your scenes. This is a source playback setting, not a YouTube stream control.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →YouTube does not show the stream in its preview
Check that OBS has the correct YouTube server URL and stream key, then confirm OBS is sending the intended scene. Inspect the preview in the Live Control Room before starting the broadcast. If this is your first time going live, activation may take up to 24 hours.
Rank #3
- 【4K HDMI Input, 2K@30Hz Recording】Powered by a true USB 3.0 high-speed interface, the capture card supports up to 4K@30Hz HDMI input and records at 2K@30Hz or 1080P@60Hz. Perfect for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need crisp, smooth video for live streaming, gameplay recording, or online meetings.
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】Built with a premium aluminum alloy shell and advanced chipset for stable heat dissipation, ensuring ultra-low latency transmission. Capture high-quality video and dual-channel audio in real time—no lag, no frame drop—ideal for Twitch, YouTube, or OBS streaming.
- 【Easy Plug and Play, Compact & Portable】No driver or external power required—just plug and play via USB 3.0 or Type-C connection to your Windows or macOS computer. Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for outdoor streaming, live shows, or mobile recording setups.
- 【Wide Compatibility & Multi-Device Support】Compatible with Windows 7 8 10 11, macOS, Linux,Android and supports most popular software such as OBS, Zoom, VLC, Twitch Studio, and more. Works seamlessly with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, DSLR cameras, TV boxes, and other HDMI-output devices for streaming to YouTube, Twitch, etc.
- 【What You Get】Includes: HDMI Capture Card, USB 3.0 to USB-C Adapter, User Manual. Tips: Make sure your tablet’s OTG function is enabled before connecting. Test your HDMI device with a monitor first to confirm video and audio output, then connect to the Video Capture Card for recording.
The broadcast disconnects even though the playlist loops
Playlist looping and broadcast connectivity are separate. Check the outgoing network connection and whether upload bandwidth is sufficient, with room to spare. Run another test before relying on the setup.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
If you want a YouTube channel to keep playing uploaded videos without leaving OBS or a computer running at home, StreamNeo is the cloud alternative: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It loops uploaded video from the cloud, not from a camera. Any quality up to 4K 60fps streams as uploaded at one flat price per slot; StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- 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
Start your free StreamNeo day.
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.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
