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To stream a video file in portrait format through XSplit Broadcaster, add it as a local Video File source, set the XSplit stage to a portrait resolution, arrange the video in the preview, then send the output through XSplit’s YouTube Live broadcast. You do not need a camera or capture card for a file already stored on your computer.
Before you start
Have the video file on the computer running XSplit, access to the YouTube channel, and XSplit Broadcaster installed. XSplit supports common media formats including MP4 and WEBM, but compatibility can depend on the particular file and installed version. If the file does not load, try a supported format and verify it plays locally before setting up the stream. See XSplit’s image, video, and audio source guide.
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Enable live streaming for the YouTube channel before configuring XSplit’s output. XSplit’s guide says a channel should be verified and free of a live-stream restriction in the previous 90 days, and that first-time approval can take up to 24 hours. These are the guide’s stated requirements and estimate, not a guarantee of YouTube’s current rules or approval time; check the eligibility information shown in YouTube Studio. See XSplit’s YouTube Live setup guide.
Add the pre-recorded video as a source
- Open the scene you want to broadcast in XSplit Broadcaster.
- Select Add Source > Video File, then choose the video stored on your computer.
- Use the source’s playback controls to set how the file should play. Check the preview to confirm it starts and plays as intended.
A Video File source plays media directly from the computer; a camera or capture-card source is for compatible external video devices. A capture card is not required for this local-file workflow. See XSplit’s camera and capture-card guidance.
#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.
Set a portrait stage and frame the video
- Open the stage controls and set a custom portrait resolution for the canvas. Choose a resolution appropriate for your source and streaming setup; XSplit documents custom stage resolutions but does not prescribe one ideal resolution for every creator.
- Resize, move, or crop the Video File source to fit the portrait canvas. Add and position any overlays you need.
- Inspect the full preview before going live. A landscape video on a portrait canvas may need reframing; otherwise, it can appear cropped or letterboxed in a way you did not intend.
XSplit uses the stage resolution for streaming and recording by default. Its stage controls let you set a custom resolution and adjust source position and size. See The XSplit Broadcaster Stage.
Choose the YouTube Live output
XSplit Broadcaster version 4.5.2412.0304, documented in the December 2024 release notes, added vertical streaming support to its YouTube Live output plugin. XSplit describes streaming in 9:16 as allowing live content to appear in the YouTube Shorts feed. Aspect ratio alone does not guarantee that YouTube will place a stream in that feed. Confirm the vertical option is available in the version installed on your computer. See XSplit’s December 2024 release notes.
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
- Open Broadcast and set up or select the YouTube Live output.
- Authorize the YouTube account when prompted.
- Choose whether to start an immediate broadcast or select a scheduled live event.
- Enter the stream details, including title, description, tags, category, and privacy. Review the available latency, DVR, backup-server, and manual-transition options and set them for the event you intend to run.
- Check the output and the YouTube live preview or status before sharing the event with viewers.
Exact interface labels and feature availability can change between versions. For the documented setup flow, see XSplit’s YouTube Live guide.
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Immediate broadcast
Set up the YouTube output and start it when you are ready to broadcast. Check the YouTube preview or live status so you know the event is receiving the stream before directing viewers to it.
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
Scheduled event
- Create the scheduled event in YouTube Studio first.
- In XSplit’s YouTube Live output, select that event from the Live Event list and configure its details.
- Decide whether to enable Manual Transition. If it is enabled, starting the XSplit broadcast is not the final step: you must also select Go Live in YouTube Studio. If it is not enabled, the XSplit guide says starting the broadcast automatically starts the event on YouTube.
Verify the preview and event status before announcing the stream. See XSplit’s scheduled-stream guide.
Optional: use separate portrait and landscape canvases
XSplit’s Multi Output mode can provide separate canvases that share scene and source lists while allowing independent source visibility and layout. This can help when you want a portrait layout alongside a landscape one. The reviewed XSplit guide marks Multi Output mode and its canvas controls as beta, so check the installed version and confirm the workflow before relying on it for a scheduled stream. See XSplit’s Multi Output guide.
Rank #4
- [Real-Time HD Video Capture] Delivering smooth, stutter-free footage at 1080P/60FPS via USB 3.0, this USB 3.0 video capture card ensures flawless streaming. It also features a 4K/30FPS HDMI loop-out for zero-latency gameplay while recording. Provide your audience with a stunning, delay-free viewing experience to level up your broadcasts. (Tip: To solve the problem of no screen display, please refer to the user manual and troubleshooting guide in the Product guides and documents section below the listing for specific instructions.)
- [Wide Compatibility] Adapting effortlessly to your ever-growing gaming collection, this versatile game capture card integrates smoothly with Windows and Mac PCs. Whether playing on PS4, PS5, or PC, this 4K capture card makes connecting and recording incredibly easy. Enjoy a seamless, plug-and-play experience that adapts to all your favorite consoles.(Tip: Please use the original USB cable for best performance.)
- [Easy to Use] Bypassing complex driver installations, this external capture card for PS5 starts capturing instantly via the provided USB and HDMI cables. Featuring HDMI Output, LINE IN, and Headset Ports, this HDMI video capture card expands your setup perfectly. Enjoy crystal-clear monitor pass-through and seamless teammate communication during intense gameplay.
- [Controllable RGB Lights] Elevating your streaming aesthetics with dynamic lighting, this switch capture card for XBOX offers 9 vibrant RGB modes to match your content. Whether playing an intense shooter or a relaxing indie game, you can create an immersive environment effortlessly. More than just a USB capture card for PS4, it serves as a stylish centerpiece for your desk.
- [Versatile Streaming Solution] Seamlessly integrating with popular platforms like OBS, YouTube, Discord, and Twitch, this audio video capture card meets the diverse needs of creators. Whether capturing intense gameplay, broadcasting, or hosting video conferences, it delivers flawless performance. As an essential capture card for streaming PS5, it is a valuable addition to any professional setup.
Custom RTMP fallback
If you are not using XSplit’s direct YouTube output, you can enter YouTube’s stream URL and key as a Custom RTMP output:
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- In XSplit, open Broadcast > Set up new output > Custom RTMP.
- Enter the URL and key in the matching fields and configure the output.
Treat the stream key like a password: do not publish it, share it, or include it in screenshots. If it is exposed, replace or reset it in YouTube Studio. See XSplit’s YouTube stream-credentials guide.
Best Value
- 4K60 Capture: Record in cinematic quality with crisp detail and vivid colors
- HFR Support: Play and capture in 1440p120 or 1080p240
- HDR10 Support: Capture brilliant HDR content with tone mapping on Windows
- Cross-Platform Compatible: Works with PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and more
- Analog Audio In: Capture in-game chat or commentary with 3.5mm input
Troubleshoot common problems
- The video will not load: Confirm the file plays on the computer and try a common supported format such as MP4 or WEBM. Compatibility can vary by file and XSplit version.
- The portrait preview is cropped or letterboxed: Recheck the custom stage resolution, then resize, reposition, or crop the source and inspect the entire preview.
- The vertical option is missing: Check that the installed Broadcaster version includes the YouTube vertical-streaming support documented in version 4.5.2412.0304.
- You cannot start a YouTube broadcast: Check the channel’s current live-stream eligibility in YouTube Studio. XSplit’s guide describes verification, recent restrictions, and first-time approval, but platform requirements can change.
- A scheduled event remains on its waiting screen: If Manual Transition is enabled, go to YouTube Studio and select Go Live after starting the XSplit output.
- You are using Custom RTMP and YouTube does not receive the stream: Check that the stream URL and key were copied correctly into the corresponding XSplit fields, and keep the key private.
Or let it run in the cloud
XSplit is the do-it-yourself route from your computer. If instead you want an uploaded video or playlist to keep a YouTube channel live without leaving a computer on, StreamNeo runs the stream from the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It plays uploaded videos rather than broadcasting from a camera. Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on, it automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream, and uploaded quality is streamed as made up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start your free StreamNeo day.
Quick Recap
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