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To loop one prerecorded video on YouTube Live, add it to an OBS Media Source and enable Loop. To cycle through several files, use OBS’s VLC Video source, add the files to its playlist, and enable Loop Playlist. Then connect OBS to a YouTube encoder stream with its stream URL and key, check the preview in YouTube Studio, and go live.
Choose the right OBS source
| What you want to play | OBS source | Setting | Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| One video, repeated | Media Source | Enable Loop | A local video file |
| Several videos in sequence, repeated | VLC Video | Enable Loop Playlist | VLC installed, with its bitness matching OBS (use 64-bit VLC with 64-bit OBS) |
OBS’s Media Source supports common formats including MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF, and WebM. The VLC Video source also has visibility behavior settings: check whether it should continue, pause, or stop if the source or its scene becomes hidden.
Set up a single looping video
- In OBS, create or select the scene for the broadcast.
- In the Sources panel, add a Media Source and select the prerecorded video file.
- In the source properties, enable Loop. OBS describes this property as replaying the file after playback completes.
- Check the scene preview and audio levels. Confirm the file plays correctly before connecting to YouTube.
Loop a playlist of videos
- Install VLC if it is not already installed. Match its bitness to OBS; for 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC.
- In the OBS scene, add a VLC Video source.
- Add the prerecorded files to the playlist in the order you want them to play.
- Enable Loop Playlist, then review the source’s visibility behavior if it might be hidden during the stream.
- Preview the playlist in OBS to check playback, transitions between files, and audio.
Connect OBS to a YouTube Live stream
- In YouTube Studio, open the Live Control Room and create or schedule an encoder stream. Set the privacy option and schedule appropriate to your broadcast.
- Copy the stream URL and stream key shown for the stream. In OBS, open the stream settings and enter those values to connect OBS as the encoder.
- Treat the stream key like a password: do not publish it or share it with anyone who should not be able to send video to your stream.
- Start streaming from OBS. For a scheduled broadcast, wait for the video preview to appear in Live Control Room, check picture and sound, and then select Go live.
- Monitor stream health and confirm that audio and video remain present. To end, end the event in Live Control Room and stop the encoder feed in OBS.
Set video quality and test the stream
YouTube recommends RTMPS for encoder connections. Its published encoder guidance lists H.264 video, constant bitrate (CBR) encoding, and a keyframe interval of two seconds; the interval should not exceed four seconds. Choose a bitrate appropriate to your output resolution and, especially, the upload capacity and stability of your internet connection. A setting that exceeds the connection’s reliable capacity can cause dropped frames or an unhealthy stream; do not assume a higher bitrate is always better.
Use YouTube’s current encoder settings recommendations to select a resolution and matching bitrate rather than relying on a fixed value that may not suit your connection or stream. Confirm the resulting picture and stream health in Live Control Room before the event.
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#1 Best Overall
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Guermok Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P 60FPS & 2K 30FPS
- 【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
- YouTube recommends making the stream setup at least two hours before the event and starting the encoder at least 15 minutes before a scheduled event. These are preparation recommendations, not guarantees of connection time.
- Check the Live Control Room preview, audio, video, and viewer access before the scheduled start.
- For a scheduled stream, do not confuse starting the encoder with starting the public event: verify the preview, then select Go live.
Copyright, archives, and long streams
Have the appropriate rights for every video and audio element you broadcast. Using OBS, looping a file, or sending it as a live encoder feed does not grant permission to use copyrighted material. The specific legal status of a program or song can depend on the work, territory, and circumstances; confirm that you are authorized before streaming it.
YouTube’s encoder instructions say streams under 12 hours are automatically archived. That statement does not establish the same archive outcome for longer streams. YouTube also notes that DVR pause and rewind may be limited or unavailable on very long streams, including those over 12 hours. If an archive matters, plan around the stated limit and check the current Live Control Room behavior for your stream.
Rank #2
Capture Card, USB Video Capture Card Device, Audio Video Converter Grabber for RCA to USB-Convert VHS Mini DV VCR Hi8 DVD to Digital, for PC TV Tape Player Camcorder, MAC Windows Vista Compatible
- 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
Troubleshoot common problems
- The video plays once and stops: Open the Media Source properties and enable Loop. For multiple files, use the VLC Video source and enable Loop Playlist.
- The VLC source is missing or does not work: Install VLC and make sure its bitness matches OBS. A 64-bit OBS installation needs 64-bit VLC.
- A playlist pauses or stops when hidden: Review the VLC Video source’s visibility behavior and choose whether playback should continue, pause, or stop while it is not visible.
- YouTube does not receive the OBS feed: Check that the stream URL and key in OBS match the encoder stream currently open in Live Control Room. If needed, retrieve the current values from that stream’s settings.
- The scheduled event is not live for viewers: Confirm that the encoder preview appears in Live Control Room, then select Go live for the scheduled broadcast.
- Video or audio is missing in the preview: Check the OBS scene and source visibility, confirm that the media file plays and has the expected audio, and inspect the Live Control Room preview before starting the event.
- The stream health is poor or frames drop: Check the connection and whether the chosen bitrate is suitable for its stable upload capacity. Compare the encoder settings with YouTube’s current recommendations.
Or let it run in the cloud
OBS keeps the looping video running from the computer that is encoding it. If you want the YouTube stream to continue without leaving a computer or home connection on, StreamNeo runs uploaded videos from the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It does not stream from a camera and supports YouTube only.
StreamNeo keeps the uploaded quality, up to 4K at 60 fps, at one price per slot; it also includes automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly service is $9.99 per month. Start your free StreamNeo day.
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Capture Card, 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Game Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS Video Capture Device, HDMI to USB 3.0 Capture Card for Streaming, Work with Camera/Xbox/PS4/PS5/PC/OBS
- 【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.
Rank #4
Audio Express AXHDCAP 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Cam Link Card Game Audio Adapter HDMI to USB 2.0 Record Capture Device for Streaming, Live Broadcasting, Video Conference, Teaching, Gaming
- [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.
Rank #3
Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P60FPS HDMI Capture Card for Streaming, Gaming, Video Recording Compatible with Switch, Xbox, PS4/5, OBS,iPad Mac OS Windows,Camera, Zoom(Silver)
- 【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.
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