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To loop local video files in a YouTube livestream, use OBS Studio’s VLC Video Source: add the files in playback order, enable Loop Playlist, then connect OBS to YouTube with the stream URL and key from YouTube Studio. This repeats your playlist, but it does not guarantee a single broadcast can stay live indefinitely or recover from every interruption.
What you need before you start
- A YouTube account with live streaming enabled. YouTube says first-time enablement may take up to 24 hours.
- OBS Studio and VLC installed on the computer that will play the playlist. OBS’s VLC Video Source requires VLC; for 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC.
- Local video files you have the right to stream, plus a stable computer, internet connection and power supply for the time you intend to broadcast.
YouTube’s encoder setup uses a server URL and stream key from YouTube Studio. Keep the key private: anyone who has it may be able to send a stream to your channel. See YouTube’s encoder setup instructions and the OBS Project’s Media Sources guide.
Set up a looping playlist in OBS
- Enable live streaming. If you have never streamed before, enable the feature for your YouTube account and allow for YouTube’s stated first-time activation window of up to 24 hours.
- Create or open a stream. In YouTube Studio, open Live Control Room and create a stream or select a scheduled one. Copy the server URL and stream key shown for that stream. Do not share the key publicly.
- Add the playlist source in OBS. In the scene you plan to broadcast, add a VLC Video Source. Add the local media files to its playlist in the order you want them to play.
- Set the repeat behavior. In the source properties, enable Loop Playlist. Enable shuffle only if you want files played in randomized order rather than the listed sequence.
- Configure YouTube as the destination. In OBS’s stream settings, select the YouTube service and enter the server URL and stream key from Live Control Room. Labels and layout may vary by OBS version, but the required YouTube connection details are the URL and key.
- Start and verify. Start streaming from OBS, then check the preview in YouTube Live Control Room. For a scheduled stream, YouTube’s documented flow is to wait until the preview is ready and then click Go live.
OBS repeats the media source playlist; YouTube handles the broadcast connection. The playlist setting does not itself start a scheduled broadcast, keep the computer awake, or restart OBS after a failure.
What “continuously” means on YouTube
A looping playlist can keep supplying video while OBS is running and connected, but do not interpret “continuous” as a platform guarantee of an unlimited single broadcast. YouTube states that streams under 12 hours are automatically archived; that archive rule is not a promise that a stream may run indefinitely. Plan your broadcast around YouTube’s documented behavior and check Live Control Room rather than assuming the loop ensures uninterrupted operation. Read YouTube’s encoder streaming guidance.
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#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.
YouTube’s Live Streaming API describes broadcasts and stream resources separately, including a 24/7-feed scenario where distinct broadcasts may use distinct stream resources. That API model is not a ready-made local playlist workflow; OBS’s VLC Video Source is the documented route here for playing and looping a list of files. See YouTube Live Streaming API: Understanding Broadcasts and Streams.
Keep the setup running and protect the content
- Keep the host available. OBS and the media files run on your computer, so sleep, a shutdown, a power cut, an internet outage or an OBS/VLC failure can interrupt the feed. The cited OBS and YouTube setup instructions do not specify restart automation, redundant power or network service, or guaranteed recovery.
- Watch the actual broadcast. Confirm the preview and live state in Live Control Room, and periodically check that the source is advancing and the connection remains active. A loop control is playback behavior, not uptime monitoring.
- Use material you are authorized to stream. A file being available locally does not establish that you have the rights to broadcast or repeatedly play it. Check permissions for music, video and other included material before going live.
- Do not apply HLS requirements to an OBS playlist by mistake. YouTube’s separate HLS ingestion method requires TS segments of 1–4 seconds, HTTPS POST/PUT, no byte ranges and a rolling playlist with no more than five outstanding segments; YouTube also says HLS has higher latency than RTMP. These are HLS ingestion constraints, not settings needed simply to loop files in OBS. See YouTube’s HLS setup guidance.
When the stream does not behave as expected
- VLC Video Source is missing: install VLC. If you use 64-bit OBS, the OBS Project specifies matching 64-bit VLC; then reopen or refresh OBS and check the source menu again.
- The playlist stops after the last file: open the VLC Video Source properties and confirm Loop Playlist is enabled. Check that all intended files are present in the playlist.
- Files play in an unexpected order: review their order in the source’s playlist and turn off shuffle if you need a fixed sequence.
- YouTube does not receive the OBS feed: compare the server URL and stream key in OBS with the values for the selected stream in Live Control Room. Recheck the preview before starting a scheduled broadcast.
- The scheduled stream is not live to viewers: starting the encoder feed and starting the scheduled broadcast are distinct actions in YouTube’s documented flow. Wait for the preview, then click Go live when it is ready.
- The broadcast ends or disconnects: a playlist loop does not diagnose or repair a dropped connection. Check whether OBS is still running, whether the host has power and internet access, and the stream status in Live Control Room; restart the encoder connection if needed and follow YouTube’s on-screen status.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the goal is an always-on YouTube loop without leaving a computer running at home, StreamNeo is the cloud alternative to try first: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It loops the uploaded video in the cloud, so your computer and home connection do not need to stay on. Each slot streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, with no re-encode or quality tiers, and includes automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card; one free day is available per account. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo plays uploaded videos and streams to YouTube; it does not go live from a camera. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
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.
- 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
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
- 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
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.
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