The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →For a single repeating video in OBS Studio, use a Media Source and enable Loop. For multiple files, use VLC Video, add the files to its playlist, and enable Loop Playlist. These settings control repetition, but OBS documentation does not promise gapless transitions. First check whether the black screen appears in OBS preview or only in the YouTube stream; that distinction helps narrow down where to investigate.
Choose the right OBS source for your loop
One video: Media Source
Add a Media Source for the local file and enable its Loop property. OBS will repeat that file when playback completes. Check the source’s end behavior as well: the Show nothing when playback ends option hides the source after the file finishes, which may contribute to a black image at the boundary. OBS Media Sources documentation.
Multiple videos: VLC Video
Use VLC Video for a playlist of multiple files, then enable Loop Playlist. OBS describes this option as specifying whether the source should restart when it has run out of media files. It restarts the playlist; the documentation does not say that transitions between different files are gapless. OBS Media Sources documentation.
VLC must be installed for VLC Video to appear as an OBS source. Match the application architectures: OBS states, “If you are using 64-bit OBS, you must install 64-bit VLC.”
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- 【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.
Find out where the black screen starts
- Watch the OBS preview at the file boundary. If the preview goes black too, investigate the source’s playback and visibility settings, then check whether another source covers it.
- If the preview stays correct, inspect the delivered stream path. Check OBS output and encoder settings, and review the OBS log for relevant errors. Randomly changing playlist controls is unlikely to help if the preview shows the right image.
- Record the setup details before changing several settings. Note whether you use Media Source or VLC Video, the loop and visibility options, whether the problem is in preview or only on YouTube, and what the OBS log reports.
This preview-versus-stream check is a practical way to narrow the fault location, not a documented diagnosis of any particular setup. OBS documentation does not establish one universal cause or fix for every black interval between files.
Check source visibility and scene order
For VLC Video, review Visibility Behaviour
The VLC Video source’s Visibility Behaviour setting controls whether playback continues, pauses, or stops when the source is not visible in the OBS scene. The option Stop when not visible, restart when visible refers to whether the source is visible in the scene—not whether the OBS application window is on screen. If your scene hides the source during a transition, check this setting.
Rank #2
- 【1080P 30FPS Full HD Recording】The HDMI capture card connects to your video source and computer, and captures high-definition video up to 1080p 60fps
- 【HDMI Video Capture】Based on high-speed USB 2.0 technology, you can capture a high-definition HDMI video and HDMI audio signal of a signal channel, sending audio and video signals to computers /pc. The gaming capture card is suitable for devices with HDMI output, such as devices for PS4, for Xbox one, for Wii U and for Switch
- 【Screen Sharing for Meetings】The video capture card is a fast, familiar and economical way to share content in conference rooms and online meetings. Connect to presentations without software, just connect to a laptop or tablet via HDMI to start sharing
- 【Plug and Play】This USB capture card does not need to install a driver, so you can use the built-in functions of the current software to get a seamless experience. Because the video capture device is compatible with most third-party software, it can be plug-and-play for Windows, for Ma OS X, and for Linux. The USB2.0 high-speed transmission port makes it easier for you to have real-time streaming for Twitch, for Youtube, for OBS, for Potplayer and for VLC
- 【Compact & Portable】The capture card is small size & easy to carry, convenient for outdoor and indoor live broadcasting. We provide 30 days no question asked money back and lifetime technical support, if you have any problem, please feel free to contact us
Check the Sources list
In OBS, sources higher in the Sources list appear above lower sources in the preview. An upper source can cover the video, and a hidden source may not display at all. If the preview is black, check the eye icons and move or hide any source that is covering the playback source. OBS Media Sources documentation · OBS Sources Guide.
Set YouTube’s 4K/60 encoder settings separately
Encoder settings determine how OBS sends the stream; they do not control how a playlist advances between files. YouTube’s encoder guidance lists these recommended bitrates for 2160p (4K) at 60 fps:
Rank #3
- 【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
| Codec | YouTube recommended bitrate |
|---|---|
| H.264 | 50 Mbps |
| AV1 or H.265 | 35 Mbps |
YouTube also recommends constant bitrate (CBR) and a 2-second keyframe interval, with keyframes no more than 4 seconds apart. These are encoder recommendations, not guarantees against a black frame between local files. Check YouTube’s live encoder settings and live encoder requirements when configuring the output.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot by symptom
| What you see | What to check |
|---|---|
| The black screen is visible in OBS preview at a file boundary. | Confirm the correct source type and loop option; check whether Media Source hides after playback ends; review VLC Video visibility behavior; inspect source visibility and stacking order. |
| OBS preview looks right, but the YouTube stream turns black. | Inspect OBS output and encoder settings and review the OBS log. The preview alone does not establish what went wrong in the delivered stream. |
| VLC Video is missing from the OBS source list. | Install VLC and match its architecture to OBS. A 64-bit OBS installation requires 64-bit VLC. |
| The playlist restarts, but a brief black interval remains between files. | Loop Playlist controls whether the playlist restarts after it runs out; it is not a documented guarantee of gapless transitions. Check preview, visibility settings, source order, and the OBS log to narrow down the issue. |
Codec or container differences between files, or encoder overload, may be worth investigating if the files or OBS logs point that way. They are possibilities to test—not established causes of this symptom in every setup.
Rank #4
- Turn Your Camera into a Pro Webcam: Connect your DSLR or mirrorless camera to any computer and go live in stunning quality
- Stunning quality: Stream and record in 1080p60 or even 4K60 for razor-sharp detail (Requires a compatible camera and the latest Cam Link 4K model)
- Connect More Than Just Cameras: Use a camcorder, action cam, or even your iPhone to level up your content
- No Lag, No Delays: Ultra-low latency keeps your video and audio perfectly in sync, just like it should be
- Your iPad, Now a Pro Field Monitor: Preview your shots in real time on an iPad with USB-C
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a YouTube channel that keeps looping uploaded videos without leaving a computer running, StreamNeo is a cloud option. Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Your computer and home connection do not need to stay on. StreamNeo streams files as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card required. Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Quick Recap
See StreamNeo or start your free first day.
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.
