OBS does not control whether your computer sleeps. To keep a stream running, change the computer’s power settings so the system stays awake; turning off the display is fine if the computer itself remains awake. The right steps depend on whether you use Windows, macOS, or Linux, and whether the computer is plugged in or on battery.
First, separate OBS from your computer’s sleep settings
OBS handles stream and output configuration, but the reviewed OBS documentation does not show an OBS-level “stay awake” switch. Its launch parameters include --startstreaming, which can start a stream; that is not a setting to prevent the operating system from sleeping. See the OBS launch parameters documentation and OBS overview.
A dark display does not, by itself, mean the computer has gone to sleep. You can let the screen turn off while keeping the system awake, if your operating system and power settings allow it. Check the sleep timeout for the power condition you will actually use: plugged in and on battery can have different settings.
Prevent sleep on Windows 11
- Open Settings → System → Power & battery → Screen, sleep, & hibernate timeouts.
- Set the sleep timeout for the condition that applies to your stream: On battery or Plugged in. For a long stream, connect the computer to power and set the plugged-in sleep timeout so it does not put the computer to sleep during the broadcast.
- Choose a screen timeout separately if you want the display to turn off. A screen turning off is not the same as system sleep.
- Check the settings again after a Windows update or if your device is managed by an organization; available options can vary by Windows release and device policy.
Microsoft also documents that an application’s system-required power request can prevent automatic sleep when accepted by the power manager. That does not establish that every OBS version or configuration makes such a request, so do not rely on OBS to keep Windows awake without testing. See Microsoft’s power request overview.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Prevent sleep on a Mac
- Open your Mac’s current battery or energy settings and look for Apple’s option “Prevent automatic sleeping on power adapter when the display is off.” The menu location can differ by macOS release.
- Enable the option while the Mac is connected to its power adapter, then set the display behavior separately if you want the screen to turn off.
- Confirm the Mac stays awake with the display off before relying on it for a long stream.
Apple cautions that delaying or preventing sleep may increase power use. Check Apple’s Support documentation for the sleep settings on your macOS version.
Linux: identify your desktop environment first
Linux power controls vary among distributions and desktop environments, so there is no single reliable click path or command for every system. Find your distribution and desktop environment, then follow that project’s official power-management documentation to change the sleep behavior for the power source you will use. If you share those details, instructions can be specific to your setup; avoid applying an unfamiliar command intended for a different desktop or power manager.
Rank #2
- 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.
Test the exact setup before a long broadcast
- Use the same computer, power source, sleep settings, and display state you plan to use for the stream.
- Start a test stream and let the computer sit idle for longer than the interval that previously caused the interruption.
- Check that the YouTube stream is still live after that interval. If it stops, check whether the computer slept, lost power, or lost its network connection before changing OBS settings.
OBS recommends testing settings before a real stream and notes that meeting compatible system requirements alone does not guarantee successful streaming or recording. A successful short test can reveal setup problems, but it is not proof of uninterrupted 24/7 reliability. See the OBS overview.
Troubleshoot the most common causes
- The stream stops after the display goes dark: Check whether system sleep is enabled for the current power condition. Display-off and system-sleep settings are separate.
- The setting works on power but not on battery: Review the separate battery timeout. For a 24/7 stream, using the computer on its power adapter avoids depending on battery-specific sleep behavior.
- You expected OBS to keep the computer awake: The reviewed OBS documentation does not promise this behavior. Set the OS sleep policy directly and test it.
- The setting is missing or locked: Options may differ by operating-system release, hardware, or device policy. Consult the official documentation for the specific system, or contact the device administrator if it is managed.
- You use Linux but the menu or command does not match: Stop and confirm the distribution and desktop environment before changing power-management settings.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the goal is a YouTube channel that keeps prerecorded videos live without leaving a home computer running, StreamNeo runs the stream from the cloud. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It loops uploaded videos; it does not stream a live camera, and it supports YouTube only.
Rank #3
- 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.
- Nothing has to stay on at home: the stream continues from the cloud while your computer is off.
- One price per slot covers any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps, with no re-encode or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery is included if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card required. The same product features are included on every plan; only the billing length changes.
The Monthly plan is $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- 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
- 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
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- 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
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.
