To change the video viewers see during an encoder-based YouTube Live loop, change the playlist or media source in the encoder sending the broadcast—not in YouTube Live Control Room. In OBS, a VLC Video source can hold a playlist and loop or shuffle it. The OBS documentation does not guarantee that editing a playlist during playback will be seamless, so test the exact change on a private stream first.
Where a playlist switch happens
An encoder sends its outgoing video feed to YouTube using the YouTube server URL and stream key. The encoder or media source producing that feed is where you manage the content. YouTube’s documented live settings cover stream configuration and controls, but do not describe a creator-side control for replacing the playlist of an already-running broadcast. YouTube Live Control Room settings · YouTube encoder setup.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Creator broadcast: Change the active playlist or media source in your encoder, such as OBS.
- YouTube Live settings: Manage the broadcast and its stream configuration; the documented controls do not include a playlist switch for an active encoder feed.
- Viewer queue: A viewer can change what they watch next, but that affects only their own viewing session—not the live broadcast. YouTube queue help.
Set up and change a playlist in OBS
- Install VLC. OBS requires VLC to be installed for its VLC Video source to appear. Confirm OBS can see the VLC installation before relying on the source. OBS Project: Media Sources.
- Add a VLC Video source. In the OBS Sources panel, select +, choose VLC Video, and create or select the source. Add the media files you want in its playlist.
- Choose the playback behavior. Enable Loop Playlist if playback should restart after the final item. Enable Shuffle Playlist only if you want randomized order instead of the listed sequence. OBS describes this source as supporting a playlist: “Unlike Media Source, you can create a playlist of items, similar to an Image Slideshow.”
- Send the encoder feed to YouTube. Configure OBS with the YouTube server URL and stream key for the broadcast. YouTube’s encoder instructions put those values in the encoder: “To start streaming, enter your YouTube Live server URL and stream key into your encoder.”
- For an active broadcast, edit the source feeding the live output. Make the playlist change in OBS or switch to a prepared source in the encoder. YouTube itself is not where an OBS playlist is edited.
Test continuity before switching live
The OBS documentation confirms playlist, loop, and shuffle features, but does not specify whether changing an existing VLC playlist mid-item preserves the current item’s position, restarts playback, or creates a transition. It also does not promise a gap-free change. Test with the OBS version and source setup you actually plan to use, preferably on a private stream, and observe both picture and audio.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →- Does the current item continue, restart, or stop when you edit the playlist?
- Does the change produce a black frame, silence, or an unexpected scene transition?
- Does the next item play in the intended order, and does the playlist still loop as configured?
If continuity matters, prepare and verify the intended playlist or source before going live, then test the actual switch procedure privately. Do not assume that changing a playlist during playback will be seamless.
#1 Best Overall
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Common problems and what to check
- VLC Video is missing from OBS: Install VLC, then reopen or check OBS. The VLC source requires VLC to be installed.
- The playlist does not restart: Check that Loop Playlist is enabled on the VLC Video source.
- Items play in an unexpected order: Check whether Shuffle Playlist is enabled.
- The YouTube page has no playlist control: That is expected for this workflow. Change the media source in the encoder sending the stream.
- The switch interrupts playback: The documented OBS behavior does not settle what happens during an active edit. Test the operation privately, or prepare a separate source and verify your switching method before the important broadcast.
Keep the stream running without a home computer
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a YouTube channel that keeps looping uploaded videos, StreamNeo is a cloud option: 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 your uploads as made, up to 4K 60fps, for one flat price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card; one free day is available per account. The monthly option is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo streams to YouTube and plays uploaded videos; it does not go live from a camera. See StreamNeo, or start your free day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Essential 4K streaming – Get everything you need to stream in brilliant 4K Ultra HD with High Dynamic Range 10+ (HDR10+).
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Make your TV even smarter – Fire TV gives you instant access to a world of content, tailor-made recommendations, and Alexa, all backed by fast performance.
- All your favorite apps in one place – Experience endless entertainment with access to Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Apple TV+, HBO Max, Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+, and thousands more. Easily discover what to watch from hundreds of thousands of movies and TV episodes (subscription fees may apply), including free, ad-supported content.
- Getting set up is easy – Plug in and connect to Wi-Fi for smooth streaming.
Rank #4
- Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
Rank #3
- Stunning 4K and Dolby Vision streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Breathtaking picture quality: Stunningly sharp 4K picture brings out rich detail in your entertainment with four times the resolution of HD. Watch as colors pop off your screen and enjoy lifelike clarity with Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
- Seamless streaming for any room: With Roku Streaming Stick 4K, watch your favorite entertainment on any TV in the house, even in rooms farther from your router thanks to the long-range Wi-Fi receiver.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, so you can switch from streaming to gaming with ease. Plus, it’s designed to stay hidden behind your TV, keeping wires neatly out of sight
Rank #2
- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
- No more fumbling in the dark: See what you’re pressing with backlit buttons.
- Say goodbye to batteries: Keep your remote powered for months on a single charge.
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.
