Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
To stream a prerecorded playlist continuously from a Windows 11 PC, install OBS Studio and VLC, add the files to an OBS VLC Video Source, and enable Loop Playlist. Then connect OBS to an encoder stream in YouTube Studio using its stream URL and key. The playlist will keep playing only while the PC, files, power, and internet connection remain available.
What you need before you start
- A Windows 11 PC that can stay powered on, awake, and connected to the internet.
- OBS Studio and VLC installed. Match their architecture: 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. If VLC is missing, the VLC Video Source will not appear in OBS. OBS: Media Sources
- Local video files you have the right to stream, arranged in the order you want them to play.
- A YouTube channel with live streaming enabled. First-time enablement may take up to 24 hours. YouTube: Get started with live streaming
Build a looping playlist in OBS
- Install OBS Studio and VLC, ensuring VLC’s 64-bit version is installed if you use 64-bit OBS.
- Open OBS and create or select a scene for the broadcast.
- In the Sources panel, select + and choose VLC Video Source. Give the source a recognizable name.
- In the source properties, add your video files in the desired playback order. Use the playlist controls to move files if needed.
- Enable Loop Playlist. Leave Shuffle Playlist off if you want a fixed sequence. OBS documents loop as on and shuffle as off by default for this source. OBS: Media Sources
- Check the preview and set the scene and output dimensions to match the quality you intend to send. Make a local playback check: confirm each file plays, sound is present, transitions work, and the list starts again after its last item.
OBS’s built-in Media Source is different: it loops one local media file, not a playlist of several files. Use the VLC Video Source for a multi-file playlist. OBS: Media Sources
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- Open YouTube Studio and create or schedule a live stream using the encoder setup. If this is the channel’s first live broadcast, allow up to 24 hours for live streaming to be enabled. YouTube: Get started with live streaming
- In the stream setup, copy the stream URL and stream key. The key tells OBS where to send the feed and functions like a credential, so do not share it or show it in a public recording. YouTube: Create a live stream with an encoder YouTube: Set up your encoder
- In OBS, open Settings > Stream, choose YouTube or YouTube RTMPS where available, and enter the stream URL and key. Use RTMPS when offered by the connection setup. Select Apply, then OK.
- Before going public, start an unlisted test stream. Check the YouTube Live Control Room preview and stream health, and verify that the playlist, audio, and video look and sound right.
- When ready, start streaming in OBS and confirm YouTube receives the feed before making the broadcast public.
Choose stream settings your PC and connection can sustain
YouTube’s published encoder guidance recommends RTMPS, constant bitrate (CBR), and a two-second keyframe interval; the maximum keyframe interval is four seconds. For H.264 video, its recommendations include these 1080p settings: YouTube: Set up your encoder
DriversCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?PerformancePC Slower Than It Used to Be?DriversOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
| Output | YouTube-recommended H.264 video bitrate |
|---|---|
| 1080p at 30 fps | 5 Mbps |
| 1080p at 60 fps | 6 Mbps minimum; 17 Mbps recommended |
These are YouTube’s encoder recommendations, not a guarantee that a particular computer or internet connection can maintain the stream. Choose a resolution, frame rate, and bitrate your system and sustained upload bandwidth can handle. Check YouTube’s current encoder guidance when setting up a stream because published recommendations can change.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
ACEMAGIC K1 Mini PC AMD Ryzen 7330U 16GB 256 SSD 4 Cores 8 Threads 4.3GHz
- [AMD Ryzen 3 Pro 7330U, which is more powerful than the N150/3500U] - ACEMAGIC Mini PC is powered by Latest Processor AMD Ryzen 7330U(4Cores/8Threads, BASE 2.3GHz, MAX TO 4.3GHz) , delivers more than 28% higher performance than N150(Reference from PassMark). Performance at least +40%, GPU at least +23% compared with the previous CPU - N95/N100/3300U. Remarkably power-efficient at 28W, it outperforms its predecessors, even rivaling some mainstream mobile processors from the past
- [K1 Mini Computer - Meet Your Second PC] - Next-Gen Light Office Mini PC comes pre-installed with the Win11 Pro system, which is intelligent, secure, and efficient. Versatile Connectivity: 10M/100M/1000M RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Port *1, USB3.2 Type-A Port*6, USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C (10Gbps Data Transfer+DP1.4)×1, HDMI 2.0*1, DP 1.4*1, DC IN ×1, 3.5mm Audio Jack*1. All-New Built-in Power Supply devise Only one cable is needed for power supply, no external adapter is required, keep the desktop neat and clean. Whether it’s for business, family entertainment, school, research, or social media, this mini PC has your needs covered!
- [Large Storage Capacity, Easy Expansion] - Mini Computer K1 is equipped with a 16GB LPDDR4 3200MT/S (non‑expandable memory) and a 256GB M.2 2280 SSD, which allows the small PC to run several high performance operations simultaneously. The LPDDR4 memory delivers faster data transfer speeds for snappier multitasking and responsive performance. The Ryzen micro desktop offers fast data reading, writing, and storage capabilities, ensuring smooth application running. If you want more storage space, you can also add M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD or M.2 SATA SSD to expand storage up to 2TB. This means you can easily store and access a large amount of files, media, and data
- [Sleek Chassis & High efficiency cooling system] - The portable mini pc features a Silver-toned Body and can be stored in a bag and carried with you at any time, ideal for business trips. Save space by super mini size(5x5x1.6 inch) and a VESA mount to install it on wall or monitors. Advanced Axial Fan & Internal Cooling Technology are practically silent at light load and even under load, the fans remain fairly quiet. Minimal or inaudible fan noise is perfect for concentrating on the task at hand!
- [WiFi 5&Bluetooth 4.2-Simply Compatible]- ACE Win11 Small PC have reliable and stable wireless connection, opening websites in seconds, watching movies without buffering and downloading files smoothly. Built-in Bluetooth enables you to connect multiple wireless devices such as mice, keyboard, headset, monitoring equipment, printer, monitor, TV and so on. High-speed wireless connection technology, reliable and efficient transmission speed, providing a faster internet experience for browsing and streaming
Keep the Windows 11 stream running
OBS encodes and sends the stream from your computer. Continuous operation therefore depends on the PC, the local media files, power, and internet connection staying available; this workflow does not provide a vendor uptime guarantee.
- Keep the PC plugged into reliable power, ventilated, and configured not to sleep during the broadcast.
- Use a stable internet connection with upload capacity above the selected video bitrate, leaving room for network variation and audio.
- Do not move or rename source files while OBS is using them. Keep the playlist files available throughout the run.
- Check the OBS output and YouTube stream health after launch, and periodically monitor the machine and connection.
Plan for replays and copyright
A 24-hour stream is not a guaranteed 24-hour replay
YouTube says streams under 12 hours can be automatically archived, but a stream that exceeds 12 hours may not be captured at all. This is an archive warning, not a stated 12-hour limit on sending a live encoder feed. If preserving a replay matters, configure a local recording or another local archive backup. YouTube: Archive live streams
Rank #2
Dell Optiplex 3070 Micro PC | Windows 11 Pro | Intel i5-9500 | 8GB RAM + 250GB SSD | 5G WiFi + BT | Mini Desktop Computer (Renewed)
- SPACE-SAVING PERFORMANCE FOR HOME & OFFICE – The Dell OptiPlex 3070 Micro delivers dependable computing power in a compact footprint, making it ideal for desks with limited space or clean, minimal workstations.
- RELIABLE INTEL PROCESSING POWER – Equipped with an Intel Core i5 9th Gen Hexa-Core processor (i5-9500), this system offers smooth performance for everyday multitasking, web browsing, and business productivity.
- CONFIGURED FOR EFFICIENCY – Comes with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 250GB SSD, delivering fast load times, responsive multitasking, and ample storage for files and applications.
- WINDOWS 11 PRO & WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY – Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, offering advanced features and security for business or home use. Includes a WiFi and Bluetooth adapter for convenient wireless connectivity.
- VERSATILE & ENERGY-EFFICIENT DESIGN – The ultra-small form factor is ideal for space-conscious users and supports a variety of mounting and placement options. Its low power usage and quiet operation make it perfect for professional environments.
Consider whether uninterrupted broadcasting or reliable replay capture is more important. If you need distinct replays, shorter sessions plus local recording may suit that need better than relying on one continuous broadcast.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Use content you are allowed to broadcast
Before adding videos, confirm that you own the content or have permission to stream it, including music, footage, and other material embedded in the files. A playlist that plays successfully in OBS is not automatically cleared for YouTube broadcast. Review YouTube’s current copyright rules and platform policies before going live.
Rank #3
BOSGAME E5 11 Pro Mini PC, AMD Ryzen 5300U 4C/ 8T, Business Home Office PC | 8GB DDR4 256GB M.2 2280 SSD, 2.5 GbE Dual Lan Desktop Computers, Triple Displays 4K 60Hz, Wi-Fi 5, BT 5.0, Support Linux SSH
- 【AMD Ryzen 3 5300U CPU: Outperforms N150 & 3500U】 BOSGAME E5 mini PC is powered by the TSMC 7nm FinFET architecture AMD Ryzen 3 5300U processor (4 Cores, 8 Threads, up to 3.8GHz boost, 6MB total cache). Compared to low-end Intel N150 or 3500U chips which only have 4 single threads and throttle under load, the 5300U delivers over 30% faster multi-core speed. Run 30+ browser tabs, large Excel sheets, and Zoom meetings simultaneously without system lag.
- 【8GB DDR4 RAM & 256GB NVMe SSD Storage】 Installed with high-speed 8GB DDR4 dual-channel memory and a fast 256GB M.2 2280 SSD, eliminating slow boot times and application loading delays. To accommodate growing data requirements, the upgradeable hardware design features dual SODIMM slots that allow you to expand memory up to 64GB RAM, ensuring smooth operation during heavy multitasking.
- 【High-Capacity Dual M.2 SSD Storage Expansion】 Never worry about running out of space for your business files. In addition to the pre-installed 256GB system drive, the motherboard houses an extra empty internal M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe 3.0 slot. This allows you to easily add a second solid-state drive for up to an additional 2TB of storage capacity (upgrades not included) without needing to remove or reinstall the original operating system.
- 【Radeon 6-Core Graphics & Triple 4K Displays】 Integrated with official AMD Radeon Graphics (6 Graphics Cores, 1500 MHz frequency) for casual gaming, photo editing, and crisp 4K media decoding. Featuring 1x HDMI 2.0 port, 1x DisplayPort, and 1x Full-Function Type-C port, the E5 outputs true 4K@60Hz resolution to three monitors at once. This multi-screen setup eliminates constant window-switching for traders, programmers, and office workers.
- 【Dual 2.5GbE LAN Ports for Advanced Networking】 Experience fast wired network transmission speeds up to 2500Mbps without lagging or buffering. The integration of dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports (powered by Realtek RTL8125 controller) makes this compact computer an exceptional hardware choice for tech enthusiasts. Easily configure it into software routers, hardware firewalls (pfSense, OpnSense), home NAS servers, or local homelabs.
Troubleshoot common problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| VLC Video Source is missing | VLC is not installed or its architecture does not match OBS. | Install VLC; for 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC, then reopen OBS. OBS: Media Sources |
| The playlist stops after the last file | Loop Playlist is off. | Open the VLC Video Source properties and enable Loop Playlist. |
| Files play in an unexpected order | Shuffle is enabled or the playlist order is wrong. | Disable Shuffle Playlist for a fixed sequence and reorder the files in the source properties. |
| YouTube does not receive the OBS feed | The stream URL or key may be missing, incorrect, or no longer the one selected for the stream. | Compare the OBS stream settings with the current YouTube Studio encoder details. Keep the key private. YouTube: Create a live stream with an encoder |
| Video or audio stutters or the stream health degrades | The selected output may exceed the computer’s encoding capacity or the connection’s sustained upload bandwidth. | Check YouTube’s stream health; lower output resolution, frame rate, or bitrate and test again. Use the current YouTube encoder recommendations as a starting point, not a guarantee. YouTube: Set up your encoder |
| The broadcast ends when you walk away | The PC slept, lost power or internet, or the source files became unavailable. | Review power and sleep settings, connectivity, and file locations. For an unattended run, monitor the machine and network rather than assuming OBS can recover from every local failure. |
| The live stream is available, but its full replay is missing | A stream longer than 12 hours may not be captured in YouTube’s archive. | Use a local recording or another local archive backup if the replay is important. YouTube: Archive live streams |
Or let it run in the cloud
If you do not want a Windows PC and home connection to remain on, StreamNeo keeps a YouTube channel live from uploaded videos. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it streams the files as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo or plans and pricing. Start your free first day on StreamNeo.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Frequently Asked Questions
Can OBS play a playlist of multiple local video files on repeat?
Yes. Use OBS’s VLC Video Source with Loop Playlist enabled; the built-in Media Source loops a single file.
Rank #4
Sale
ACEMAGIC Mini PC Win-dows 11 Pro Ryzen 3 PRO 7330U 8GB RAM 256GB SSD 28W
- 【AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 7330U】ACEMAGIC Mini PC is powered by Latest Processor AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 7330U(4Cores/8Threads, BASE 2.3GHz, MAX TO 4.3GHz) , delivers more than 28% higher performance than N150(Reference from PassMark). Performance at least +40%, GPU at least +23% compared with the previous CPU - N95/N100/3300U. Remarkably power-efficient at 28W, it outperforms its predecessors, even rivaling some mainstream mobile processors from the past
- 【Flexible expansion space】This mini computer features dual memory slots and dual hard drive bays (M.2 SATA and NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 slots, supporting a total of up to 4TB). Its configuration can be flexibly upgraded to suit different usage scenarios, easily adapting to and meeting various needs, whether for storing large amounts of multimedia files or improving multitasking efficiency.
- 【Rich interfaces and multi-screen display】This Windows 11 Pro mini PC is equipped with a USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C port (supporting DP1.4 video output + 5Gbps data transfer), HDMI 2.0, and DP1.4 ports, supporting 3-screen 4K display. Combined with a gigabit Ethernet port and WiFi 5 + BT4.2, it provides a stable and efficient connection experience for multi-screen office work, home theater setups, or expanding usage scenarios by connecting peripherals.
- 【High-efficiency heat dissipation】This micro PC features a 28W cooling system, a high thermal conductivity aluminum chassis, an 80mm fan, and a dual exhaust design to ensure stable operation under heavy loads for extended periods. Measuring only 128.2×128.2×41mm, it saves desktop space and blends seamlessly into modern home and office environments.
- 【Complete accessories and stabilization system】This Ryzen mini PC comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro and includes the main unit, instruction manual, HDMI cable, wall mount, screws, and power adapter. Its 19V/3.42A power supply design ensures stable operation, providing a reliable and convenient user experience whether used as a home theater center or an office host.
Can YouTube archive a 24/7 live stream in full?
It is not guaranteed. YouTube says a stream exceeding 12 hours may not be captured at all; use a local recording if a replay matters.
Recommended Free Tools
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 2
Best Value
Bmax Mini PC Mini Desktop Computer Intel Celeron J3355 (Up to 2.5GHz) Win 11, 6GB RAM 128GB eMMC Support M.2 SSD Expansion (512GB/2TB), 4K Dual Display WiFi5& BT5.0 for Home/Office,Daily Use,B1 Plus
- 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 & 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: Powered by the Intel Celeron J3355 Processor (up to 2.5GHz), this Mini PC delivers a 25% performance boost over previous generations. Pre-installed with Windows 11 Home and supporting Linux/Ubuntu, it’s the ideal micro desktop for seamless web browsing, document editing, and efficient daily office tasks.
- 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 & 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧: Equipped with 6GB LPDDR3 RAM and 128GB onboard storage for fast boot-ups. Stand out with our dual M.2 SSD slot design (1x SATA + 1x NVMe), allowing you to easily expand storage up to 2TB without replacing the original drive. Perfect for managing large digital libraries and intensive multitasking.
- 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟒𝐊 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐃𝐌𝐈 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲: Boost your productivity with Intel HD Graphics 500 and dual HDMI ports, supporting 4K @60Hz high-definition visuals. Connect two monitors simultaneously to streamline your workflow—ideal for home office setups, stock trading, or enjoying a theater-like 4K media experience.
- 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐫𝐚-𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 & 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞-𝐒𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧: Measuring only 4.2x4.1x1.4 inches and weighing just 0.49 lbs, this palm-sized mini computer fits anywhere. Use the included VESA bracket to mount it behind your monitor for a zero-clutter workspace. Features a smart silent fan and heat sink system for quiet, reliable 24/7 operation.
- 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲 & 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲: Stay connected with Dual-Band WiFi (2.4G/5G), Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit Ethernet. Exclusive One-Click Restore feature (via F9 key) allows for quick system recovery in minutes. Backed by Bmax's 12-month warranty and lifetime technical support for a worry-free purchase.
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.
