To play a recorded gaming VOD in an OBS scene and repeat it, use a Media Source with Loop enabled. OBS Replay Buffer does something else: it saves a recent segment of captured gameplay as a local clip. YouTube Live DVR is a third feature, letting viewers pause or rewind the live broadcast.
Which OBS feature should you use?
| Your goal | Use | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Play and repeat one existing VOD in the OBS output | Media Source with Loop | Plays a local file in a scene and starts it again when playback ends. |
| Save the latest gameplay for a clip | Replay Buffer | Captures recent footage and saves it locally when triggered. |
| Play a playlist of local videos | VLC Video source | Plays a playlist through VLC libraries; VLC must be installed. |
| Let viewers pause or rewind the live broadcast | YouTube Live DVR | Controls viewer playback; it does not put a file on air or create an OBS clip. |
Loop one gaming VOD with an OBS Media Source
- Choose a scene. Open OBS and select the scene that should contain the VOD, or create a new scene.
- Add the file. In the Sources panel, select + and choose Media Source. Create a new source or select an existing one, then browse to the local video file in its properties.
- Enable looping. Turn on Loop in the Media Source properties. OBS documents Loop as off by default; when enabled, playback repeats after the file finishes.
- Check the scene. Confirm the source is visible, positioned correctly in the source stack, and playing in the preview. Verify both video and audio before going live.
- Connect OBS to YouTube. In OBS stream settings, select YouTube as the service and enter the stream key provided through YouTube’s live workflow. Keep the key private.
- Test before broadcasting. Confirm the VOD repeats as expected and that the encoder can handle the chosen output. OBS recommends testing scenes and stream behavior before a first broadcast.
Loop is not the same as “Restart playback when source becomes active.” Restart playback starts the file over when the source becomes visible in the scene; Loop repeats it when playback reaches the end. If the source is hidden and shown again, restart behavior can matter independently of whether Loop is enabled.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Replay Buffer is for saving recent gameplay
Replay Buffer is useful when you are capturing gameplay and want to preserve a recent moment—for example, a highlight to edit or share later. Enable Replay Buffer in OBS and assign a hotkey to save it. OBS also provides hotkey actions to start and stop the buffer.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
It does not select a previously recorded VOD as a scene source or broadcast that file. For an existing recording, use Media Source instead.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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
Use VLC Video for a playlist
If you want to cycle through multiple local videos, OBS’s VLC Video source supports playlists and includes a Loop Playlist property, documented as on by default. It relies on VLC libraries, so VLC must be installed; OBS specifies 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS. For repeating just one VOD, Media Source is the more direct option.
Formats, playback checks, and performance
OBS lists these video file extensions as supported: .mp4, .ts, .mov, .flv, .mkv, .avi, .gif, and .webm. Listed audio extensions include .mp3, .aac, .ogg, and .wav. An accepted extension does not guarantee that every codec and container combination will decode on every computer, so check the actual file in the OBS preview before going live.
Rank #2
- [Enhanced 4K-1080P Video Capture Experience] Capture the Magic: Elevate your video recordings to new heights with our upgraded anti-static 1080P Video Capture Card. Immerse yourself in stunning visuals, supporting HDMI input at 4K 60FPS and USB output for capturing in 1080P, complete with rich stereo sound. Enjoy crystal-clear video recordings, dynamic gaming live streams, and professional conference broadcasts. Note: HDMI resolution: Max input can be 3840×2160@30Hz / Video output resolution: Max output can be 1920×1080@30Hz
- [Seamless Real-Time Preview] Stay in the Moment: Our advanced ultra-low latency technology ensures seamless real-time transmission of video streams. Experience instant, lag-free previews, allowing you to capture every detail precisely. Effortlessly record video directly to your hard disk, all without compromising on quality or introducing any delays.
- [Versatility and Broad Compatibility] Your Creative Hub: Connect your DSLR, camcorder, or action camera to a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux. Unlock a world of possibilities with real-time streaming to popular platforms like Twitch, Youtube, OBS, Zoom, Potplayer, and VLC, giving you the tools to share your content effortlessly.
- [Effortless Plug and Play] Simplicity Redefined: Say goodbye to complex installations. Our plug-and-play design eliminates the need for drivers or external power supplies. Seamlessly integrate high-definition acquisition into various scenarios, whether it's educational recordings, immersive gaming, precise medical imaging, captivating live streams, or professional broadcasting.
- [Seize Every Detail with Precision] Unleash your creativity and attention to detail with our video capture card. Capture every nuance, every color, and every moment with precision, thanks to the enhanced capabilities of our technology. Whether you're a content creator, a gamer, or a professional, our capture card empowers you to seize the finest elements and bring them to life in your recordings and live streams.
OBS notes that 60-fps streaming can be substantially more demanding than 30-fps streaming. The documentation does not establish one universal hardware requirement for a particular file, resolution, frame rate, encoder, or computer. Test your own scene and output rather than assuming that successful local playback guarantees a stable live stream.
Set YouTube DVR separately if viewers need rewind
YouTube Live DVR is a viewer-side control, not an OBS source. You can toggle DVR in the stream settings. When enabled, viewers may pause and rewind within the live broadcast, but they cannot seek to before the broadcast began.
Rank #3
- 【4K HDMI Input, 2K@30Hz Recording】Powered by a true USB 3.0 high-speed interface, the capture card supports up to 4K@30Hz HDMI input and records at 2K@30Hz or 1080P@60Hz. Perfect for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need crisp, smooth video for live streaming, gameplay recording, or online meetings.
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】Built with a premium aluminum alloy shell and advanced chipset for stable heat dissipation, ensuring ultra-low latency transmission. Capture high-quality video and dual-channel audio in real time—no lag, no frame drop—ideal for Twitch, YouTube, or OBS streaming.
- 【Easy Plug and Play, Compact & Portable】No driver or external power required—just plug and play via USB 3.0 or Type-C connection to your Windows or macOS computer. Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for outdoor streaming, live shows, or mobile recording setups.
- 【Wide Compatibility & Multi-Device Support】Compatible with Windows 7 8 10 11, macOS, Linux,Android and supports most popular software such as OBS, Zoom, VLC, Twitch Studio, and more. Works seamlessly with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, DSLR cameras, TV boxes, and other HDMI-output devices for streaming to YouTube, Twitch, etc.
- 【What You Get】Includes: HDMI Capture Card, USB 3.0 to USB-C Adapter, User Manual. Tips: Make sure your tablet’s OTG function is enabled before connecting. Test your HDMI device with a monitor first to confirm video and audio output, then connect to the Video Capture Card for recording.
YouTube says DVR rewind may be limited or unavailable for streams longer than 12 hours. Limits can also be lower for viewing on Apple TV, AirPlay, or older app versions. If DVR is disabled, viewers cannot seek backward during the live broadcast; YouTube says a recording of the entire stream can still be viewed once available.
Common problems and fixes
- The VOD plays once and stops: Open the Media Source properties and enable Loop. The separate restart-when-active setting does not make playback repeat at the end.
- The source is missing from the preview: Check that it is visible in the Sources panel, positioned appropriately in the source stack, and assigned to the intended scene.
- The file appears supported but will not play correctly: Test the exact file in OBS. Extension support alone does not establish compatibility with every codec/container combination.
- A playlist source is unavailable: VLC Video depends on VLC libraries. Install VLC, matching the OBS architecture; for 64-bit OBS, OBS specifies 64-bit VLC.
- The live broadcast stops when OBS stops: A Media Source plays content inside OBS; it does not independently broadcast after the encoder stops sending the stream.
- Viewers cannot rewind: Check YouTube’s DVR setting separately. If the stream exceeds 12 hours or viewers use certain devices or older app versions, rewind may be limited even when DVR is enabled.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep a prerecorded video looping on YouTube without leaving a home computer running, StreamNeo is a cloud option: upload the recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; the uploaded video streams as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot, and StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- AV TO USB Converter: Capture videos and audios from VHS, VCR, Hi8, DV tapes to a PC, with the help of our USB Video Converter. Save room while digitizing your favorite old memories
- Quality Capture Card: Our USB Video Capture Card converting anolog RCA composite input into HD 720P USB output and capturing audio without any sound card. Advanced signal processing technology provides you with great precision, colors, resolutions, and details.
- Plug and Play: Automatically install the driver once you hook up this RCA to USB Converter to a PC. No external power is needed. User-friendly and easy to operate
- Wide Compatibility: The Video Capture Card can work with video devices with RCA connector or S-Video connector, such as VHS, VCR, Hi8, camcorder, compatible with Windows and Mac OS. Support video formats like NTSC, PAL, and support brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation control
- Note: The Video Converter is used with acquisition software. We recommend OBS Studio or PotPlayer for Windows, and QuickTime Player for Mac. They can be downloaded for free online. Please operate according to the steps in User Manual or contact us if you have any questions
Rank #4
- 【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.
Start your free day with StreamNeo.
Sources
- OBS Project, Media Sources (January 11, 2022).
- OBS Project, OBS Studio Overview Guide (August 25, 2021).
- YouTube Help, Turn on DVR on live streams (publication date not stated on the page).
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.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches
