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To loop several local videos on YouTube Live, add OBS’s VLC Video Source, put the files in its playlist, and leave Loop Playlist enabled. For one video, OBS’s regular Media Source with its Loop option is simpler. You’ll need VLC installed for the VLC source, a YouTube channel eligible to livestream, and a tested OBS-to-YouTube connection.
Choose the OBS source that matches your videos
| Source | Best for | Repeat setting | VLC required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Media Source | One video file | Enable Loop in the source properties. | No |
| VLC Video Source | A playlist of multiple video or media files | Enable Loop Playlist to restart playback after the list ends. | Yes |
The OBS Project describes VLC Video Source as allowing multiple media files to be played as a playlist, unlike Media Source, which is intended for individual media files (OBS Project: Media Sources, published January 11, 2022).
Install VLC and prepare OBS
- Install VLC Media Player. Match its architecture to OBS: if you use 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC. OBS relies on VLC being installed for VLC Video Source; if that source is missing, check the installation and architecture match first.
- Open the scene you want to broadcast. In OBS, select the scene in the Scenes dock. In the Sources dock, click + and choose VLC Video Source. OBS documents adding sources through the Sources dock (OBS Project: Media Sources).
- Name the source and open its properties. Add the local video files to its playlist. Confirm the files are available at those paths on the computer that will run OBS.
- Set playback behavior. Keep Loop Playlist enabled so playback returns to the start after the last file. Keep Shuffle Playlist disabled if you want the files to play in their listed order. The source’s visibility behavior controls playback when the source is not visible in the OBS scene; it does not refer to minimizing the OBS window.
- Check the scene. Make sure the source is visible and its picture fits the canvas. If it does not fill the output, use OBS’s transform or fit controls. Check that the audio is audible and routed as intended.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- Confirm livestream eligibility. YouTube requires a verified channel and no live-stream restriction in the preceding 90 days. See YouTube’s live-streaming eligibility and setup guidance.
- Set up a stream in YouTube Studio. Open the Live Control Room and create or select the broadcast you intend to use.
- Connect OBS as the encoder. Use the stream URL and key shown in YouTube Studio, or the available YouTube connection workflow in OBS. Treat the stream key as private: anyone who obtains it could send video to your channel.
- Check the preview before going live. Start streaming from OBS and confirm that YouTube’s Live Control Room receives the video and audio. Make a short local test or an unlisted test stream before a public broadcast.
- Monitor stream health. During the broadcast, watch the YouTube Live Control Room’s stream-health status and address any warnings before relying on the loop.
Choose a sustainable quality and test it
There is no single best resolution or bitrate without knowing your source footage, computer, encoder settings, and upload connection. YouTube advises choosing encoder settings the connection can reliably sustain, testing with representative movement and audio, and monitoring stream health. Its encoder settings guidance lists recommended bitrate ranges by resolution, frame rate, and codec; consult the current table for your chosen format rather than assuming one value fits every stream.
- Test with the same resolution, frame rate, audio, and scene you plan to broadcast.
- Check for stutters, missing audio, black frames, and source changes before making a stream public.
- For a long broadcast, make sure the computer stays powered, the video files remain accessible, and OBS continues encoding. Official guidance does not guarantee a local setup will run unattended indefinitely.
Check broadcast rights before looping content
A video playing correctly in OBS does not establish that you have permission to broadcast it. YouTube scans live streams for third-party content. A detected match can lead to a placeholder image, interruption, or termination. Even if you have a licence, the rights owner may need to add your channel to its Content ID allowlist for the live stream to proceed (YouTube: Copyright issues with live streams).
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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.
Confirm that you have the rights needed for every video and audio track before going live. A successful test is not a substitute for permission.
Troubleshoot common VLC Video Source problems
- VLC Video Source is missing: Install VLC, then confirm its architecture matches OBS. Restart OBS after installation if the source still does not appear.
- The playlist stops at the last file: Open the source properties and enable Loop Playlist.
- Files play in an unexpected order: Disable Shuffle Playlist and arrange the playlist in the desired sequence.
- The picture is cropped or does not fill the canvas: Select the source and use OBS’s fit or transform controls; check that the scene canvas and video aspect ratio suit the intended output.
- There is no sound or the wrong audio is heard: Check the VLC source’s audio in OBS’s mixer and confirm the intended audio path is enabled and audible in a test.
- YouTube shows no incoming video: Verify that OBS is streaming, the correct YouTube stream key and URL or connection are in use, and the Live Control Room preview is receiving the encoder feed.
- The stream is interrupted or replaced by a placeholder: Check YouTube’s stream-health notices and review whether the broadcast contains third-party material that has not been cleared or allowlisted.
Or let it run in the cloud
For a YouTube channel that needs uploaded videos to keep looping without leaving a home 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, not a live camera feed.
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.
- Nothing has to stay powered on at home.
- Any quality up to 4K 60fps streams as uploaded, at one price per slot with no re-encode or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery is included if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card; one free day per account.
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Start your free StreamNeo day.
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