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Short answer: OBS Studio is the documented option here that can loop a prerecorded file or playlist itself, then send it to YouTube using the RTMP(S) server address and stream key from YouTube Live Control Room. Restream and StreamYard accept custom RTMP destinations, but their cited documentation does not establish that either one loops prerecorded media. If you want a cloud service that keeps uploaded videos looping on YouTube, StreamNeo is the first option to consider: it runs continuously from the cloud, supports uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and offers a free first day.
Which tool does the looping, and which one accepts custom RTMP?
These are separate jobs. A loop is configured in the media source or playback system; custom RTMP settings tell a service where to send the outgoing stream. A service’s ability to accept an RTMP URL and key does not, by itself, mean it can repeat a video.
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| Tool or service | What its documentation establishes | What it does not establish |
|---|---|---|
| StreamNeo | Cloud service for looping uploaded videos or playlists on YouTube without leaving a computer running. It accepts a YouTube stream key as part of setup. | It streams to YouTube only and plays uploaded videos; it is not a camera-based live source. |
| OBS Studio | Its Media Source can loop a local file; VLC Video can restart a playlist after the items finish. The Media Source is documented for Windows, macOS, and Linux. OBS Project: Media Sources | OBS is an encoder running on your computer, not a hosted relay service. |
| YouTube Live | Live Control Room supplies ingest configuration, including the server URL and stream key. YouTube documents RTMPS, which adds TLS/SSL encryption to RTMP. YouTube Help: Encrypt your stream using RTMPS | The cited guidance does not document a native YouTube feature for looping a prerecorded file. |
| Restream | Supports manual custom RTMP destinations and a workflow for targeting an existing YouTube event. Custom RTMP channels require a paid plan. Restream: Stream to a Custom RTMP channel Restream: Stream to an existing YouTube Event | The cited pages do not show that Restream itself loops the source video. |
| StreamYard | Supports a custom RTMP destination configured with a server URL and stream key; custom RTMP requires a paid plan. Its documentation also lists limitations for custom destinations. StreamYard: Connect a custom RTMP destination | The cited page does not establish a StreamYard feature for looping prerecorded media. |
This comparison covers the named services verified in their documentation, not every RTMP-compatible product. The practical distinction is clear: use a source that can repeat the media, then connect its output to YouTube’s ingest settings; add a relay or studio only when its other features are useful.
How to loop a video in OBS and send it to YouTube
- Get the YouTube ingest details. Open YouTube Studio, go to Live / Live Control Room, and create or select the stream or scheduled event you intend to use. Copy its stream key and server URL. If you are entering a server manually, use the RTMPS URL provided by YouTube when available; RTMPS is RTMP protected with TLS/SSL.
- Add the media source. In OBS, select a scene, click + in Sources, and choose Media Source. Name it, choose the video file, and enable Loop so the file restarts when playback completes. OBS’s Media Source is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. See OBS Media Sources documentation.
- For a playlist, use VLC Video. Add a VLC Video source and select the files in the intended order. Enable playlist looping/restart so playback begins again after the final item. VLC must be installed for this source to work.
- Enter YouTube’s output settings. In OBS, open Settings > Stream. Choose the YouTube service if its available configuration supports your workflow; otherwise use the custom server option and enter YouTube’s server URL and stream key from Live Control Room. Keep the key private: anyone with it may be able to broadcast to that stream.
- Check the picture and audio before going live. Confirm the source fills the canvas as intended, audio is present if needed, and the loop restarts without an unwanted black gap or abrupt transition. Run a private or unlisted test when practical.
- Start the broadcast and monitor it. Start streaming in OBS, then verify the incoming feed and stream status in YouTube Live Control Room. Keep OBS, the computer, and a reliable internet connection running for the full broadcast.
When Restream or StreamYard makes sense
Restream: custom RTMP or a scheduled YouTube event
Restream’s custom RTMP setup asks for the destination platform’s RTMP URL and stream key, and the help page states that custom RTMP channels require a paid plan. Its existing-YouTube-event workflow can target a scheduled YouTube event either through the YouTube integration or by adding the event as a custom RTMP channel. These are destination and relay workflows; the cited help pages do not say that Restream loops a file, so arrange looping at the source unless you verify a separate playback feature.
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StreamYard: a production studio with a custom destination
StreamYard documents adding a custom RTMP destination with a server URL and stream key, with that capability requiring a paid plan. Its custom destinations have documented limitations, so check the current limitations against the features your event needs before choosing this route. Its custom-destination page does not establish a prerecorded-video loop feature.
What to check before choosing a setup
- Looping: Does the tool repeat one file, a playlist, or neither? OBS documents both file looping and playlist restart options.
- Destination control: Can you enter a manual RTMP/RTMPS URL and stream key, or does the service rely on a platform integration?
- Existing event support: If you need a scheduled YouTube event, confirm that the chosen workflow targets that event rather than creating a separate destination.
- Plan restrictions: Restream and StreamYard document paid-plan requirements for custom RTMP. Check the provider’s current plan details before subscribing.
- Reliability needs: A local OBS setup depends on the computer, power, and home connection staying available. A hosted option avoids keeping your own machine online, but confirm that it supports your exact playback and destination workflow.
Troubleshooting a looped YouTube stream
- YouTube receives no video: Recheck the selected server URL and stream key in OBS against the active event in Live Control Room. A key copied from a different event can send the feed to the wrong destination.
- The stream connects but the file does not repeat: Check that Loop is enabled on the OBS Media Source. For VLC Video, verify the playlist restart/loop setting and that VLC is installed.
- A playlist stops at the last item: Confirm the source’s restart option is enabled and that the playlist contains playable files in the intended order.
- The stream stops when you leave: OBS runs on the local computer. Sleep settings, power loss, app closure, or an internet interruption can stop the broadcast; keep the machine awake and connected for the intended duration.
- The broadcast is rejected or interrupted over content rights: Only stream material you have the rights to broadcast, including music and other content embedded in a video. A loop does not grant permission to reuse content. Review YouTube’s current live-stream and copyright requirements in Live Control Room and YouTube Help before broadcasting.
Or let it run in the cloud
With StreamNeo, upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It keeps the uploaded video looping from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. Each slot streams the video as uploaded, at any quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot; it does not re-encode or use quality tiers. If YouTube drops the stream, StreamNeo automatically recovers. The first day is free with no card required; one free day is available per account. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month.
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Best Value
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
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- 4K 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
- 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
- Compact without compromises: Our sleek design 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.
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