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To loop several prerecorded videos in OBS, add a VLC Video Source, put the files in its playlist, and leave Loop Playlist enabled. Install VLC first—64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. For one video rather than a playlist, use a Media Source and enable its Loop property.
Choose the right OBS source
| OBS source | Best for | Repeat setting | VLC required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| VLC Video Source | A playlist of multiple files | Loop Playlist | Yes |
| Media Source | One local video file | Loop | No |
A Media Source loop repeats that individual file; it is not a multi-file playlist. VLC Video Source supports playlists and can restart the playlist when it reaches the end. OBS documents Loop Playlist as on by default, but check the setting rather than relying on the default.
Set up a repeating video playlist in OBS
- Prepare the files. Put the videos you want to use in a stable local folder and decide the playback order. Avoid moving or renaming them after adding them to the playlist, or OBS may no longer find them.
- Install VLC if needed. VLC Video Source depends on VLC. If you use 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC. Restart OBS after installing if the source is not listed.
- Add the playlist source. In the scene’s Sources dock, click the + button and choose VLC Video Source. Add the video files to its playlist.
- Set repeat and order. Enable Loop Playlist to start again after the final file. Turn off Shuffle Playlist if you want the files played in their listed order.
- Choose behavior when hidden. Set the source’s Visibility Behaviour to match how you use scenes. The available behavior determines whether playback continues, pauses, or stops when the source is not visible. If the playlist should keep advancing while you switch scenes, select the continue behavior.
- Compose the scene. Resize and position the video. OBS source order controls which visual elements appear above others, so keep overlays above the video when they should remain visible.
- Verify playback before going live. Run the playlist through its final file and confirm it returns to the first. Check both picture and audio, including transitions between differently formatted videos.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- In YouTube Studio, open the Live Control Room and obtain the stream’s server URL and stream key.
- Enter those connection details in OBS’s stream settings. Treat the stream key like a password: do not publish it, show it on screen, or share it with anyone who should not control the stream.
- Check eligibility before planning an unattended broadcast. YouTube requires a verified channel and no live-streaming restrictions in the previous 90 days.
- Start a short test and confirm the incoming preview and stream health in Live Control Room before relying on a long-running broadcast.
Choose output settings for your computer and connection
There is no single correct resolution, frame rate, codec, or bitrate for every OBS setup. Choose a combination your encoder can sustain and that fits the quality of the source videos and your upload connection.
- Rate control: YouTube recommends CBR.
- Keyframes: YouTube recommends a 2-second keyframe frequency and says not to exceed 4 seconds.
- Resolution, frame rate, codec, and bitrate: Use settings supported by your encoder and connection. Higher output demands more encoding performance and upload capacity.
- Upload headroom: YouTube recommends upload bandwidth with 20% headroom above the total stream bitrate. Leave capacity for other devices and traffic on the same connection where possible.
Test with video and audio that have movement and sound similar to the actual broadcast. Monitor YouTube’s preview and stream-health indicators during the test and after you go live.
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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
Plan for the limits of a 24/7 YouTube archive
YouTube says it can automatically archive live streams shorter than 12 hours and warns that streams exceeding 12 hours may not be captured at all. A continuous 24/7 broadcast should therefore not be treated as a guaranteed complete replay. If you need a retained copy, make and verify a local recording; YouTube also recommends keeping a local archive backup.
Troubleshoot a playlist that stops or behaves unexpectedly
- VLC Video Source is missing: Install VLC and match its architecture to OBS; 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. Restart OBS and check the Sources menu again.
- The playlist stops at the end: Open the VLC Video Source properties and confirm Loop Playlist is enabled. For a single-file Media Source, check its Loop property instead.
- Videos play in an unexpected order: Turn off Shuffle Playlist and confirm the playlist’s listed order.
- Playback pauses after changing scenes: Check Visibility Behaviour. Set the source to continue while hidden if it needs to keep advancing off-scene.
- Video freezes, stutters, or OBS reports encoding overload: Reduce output resolution or frame rate, simplify the scene, or remove expensive sources. The performance required varies with encoder, resolution, FPS, and scene complexity.
- YouTube preview or stream health is poor: Recheck the encoder settings, connection stability, and available upload bandwidth. Test again with similar audio and movement, and preserve the recommended bandwidth headroom.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you do not want a computer and home connection to carry the broadcast continuously, StreamNeo keeps an uploaded video or playlist looping from the cloud. The setup is three steps: upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It is for prerecorded videos on YouTube, not a live camera feed.
Rank #2
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.
- Nothing has to stay on at home; the stream continues from the cloud with your computer off.
- Every quality up to 4K 60fps streams as uploaded, with no re-encode and one flat price per slot.
- It automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card, one free day per account.
Monthly: $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo for details, or start your free day.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use VLC Video Source for just one video?
Yes. The playlist source can contain one file, but OBS Media Source is the simpler choice when you only need one file to repeat.
The Tool Desk
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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.
Does StreamNeo stream from a camera?
No. StreamNeo loops uploaded prerecorded videos to YouTube; it does not go live from a camera.
Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 4
Best Value
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
Rank #4
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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.
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