What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To loop an MKV file in OBS, add it to your scene as a Media Source, enable Local File, select the MKV, and check Loop. OBS plays the file repeatedly; YouTube receives the live output from OBS, not the MKV as an uploaded file.

Set up one MKV file in OBS

  1. Open the OBS scene you want to send to YouTube. In the Sources panel, select +, choose Media Source, and give the source a clear name.
  2. In the source properties, enable Local File, then browse to and select your .mkv file.
  3. Check Loop. OBS will start the file again after it reaches the end.
  4. Decide whether to leave Restart playback when source becomes active enabled. This is separate from Loop: it controls whether playback starts from the beginning when the source becomes visible or active. Loop controls what happens at the end of the file.
  5. Confirm the source is visible in the scene and that its audio is reaching the OBS mixer. Adjust the source’s position and size in the preview if needed.

You do not need to convert an MKV just to play it in a Media Source. OBS supports MKV as a video format. OBS’s recommendation to record in MKV is a separate matter: the format can protect a recording from being wholly corrupted if recording is interrupted, though it may need remuxing for some editing workflows.

Connect OBS to YouTube Live

  1. Make sure your channel is eligible to livestream: YouTube requires a verified channel and no livestreaming restrictions in the previous 90 days.
  2. Open YouTube Live Control Room and create or select the live stream. In OBS, open Settings > Stream. Choose YouTube if it is available, or enter the stream URL and key supplied by YouTube.
  3. Treat the stream key like a password. It tells OBS where to send the encoder feed and lets YouTube accept it. Do not share it or show it in a public recording or screenshot. If it is exposed, replace or reset it in YouTube before streaming again.
  4. Use the current options shown in OBS and YouTube Live Control Room. YouTube recommends RTMPS and identifies encoder settings such as codec, frame rate, keyframe interval, and bitrate mode. Choose output quality that your upload connection can reliably sustain; there is no bitrate value established here that fits every resolution and frame rate.
  5. Start the encoder from OBS and wait for the preview in Live Control Room. Check picture, motion, and audio before starting the public broadcast. Test with representative movement and sound, then monitor YouTube’s stream health while live.

For labels and available settings, rely on the current OBS and YouTube interfaces; they can change. Keep the video’s resolution and frame rate within the output configuration you have chosen, and prioritize a stable upload connection over a higher setting that causes dropped frames or poor stream health.

Use a playlist instead of a single MKV

For one local file, Media Source is the simplest option and does not require VLC. If you need several files in rotation, OBS offers a VLC Video source with a Loop Playlist option. That route requires VLC to be installed; with 64-bit OBS, OBS documentation specifies 64-bit VLC. A playlist is not needed for the single-file setup above.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
OBSBOT Meet SE 1080P 100FPS Webcam for PC, AI Framing Streaming Camera
  • 【OBSBOT × EWC 2025 Official Partnership】 OBSBOT is thrilled to be the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) Official Camera & Webcam Partner. Leveraging cutting-edge AI camera tech, OBSBOT will deliver immersive live broadcasts, capturing every epic moment of elite gamers. Also, OBSBOT provides content creators and streamers with the same pro imaging solutions, empowering global players to record esports highlights via EWC-approved AI camera tech.
  • 【Brilliance in Every Frame】The OBSBOT Meet SE webcam combines style with high performance. Enjoy ultra-high frame rates of 1080P@100FPS & 1080P@60FPS & 720P@150FPS, enhanced by smart AI Framing. Moreover, we break free from the traditional black with our webcam available in three vibrant colors. 🚩For 100FPS recording, use the 'More Output Options' in the OBSBOT software.
  • 【Intelligent AI Framing】Activate our computer camera's group mode and intelligently recognize individuals or groups, optimizing the composition and focus for each frame in real-time. Elevate your group meetings and live streams with ease.
  • 【Shine in Low Light】Breakthroughs in low-light performance set our streaming camera apart. Equipped with 1/2.8” Stacked CMOS, Dual Native ISO, 2.9 μm Pixels Size, Staggered HDR, 12 Bit dynamic color range ensure excellent video quality in any lighting condition.
  • 【Command with Cestures】 Along with the 2.0 dynamic gesture control, our web cam says goodbye to cumbersome manual operation. Simply face the webcam, make an “🖐” gesture to open/close AI framing, and make an “👆” gesture to control the zoom easily.

Check these issues if playback or streaming fails

  • The file plays once and stops: Reopen the Media Source properties and confirm Loop is checked. The restart-when-active option does not replace Loop.
  • The video starts over when you switch scenes: Check whether Restart playback when source becomes active is enabled. Turn it off if you want playback to continue from its existing position when the source becomes active again.
  • YouTube does not show a preview: Confirm OBS is sending to the intended YouTube stream and that the stream URL and key are correct. Wait for Live Control Room to receive the encoder feed before starting the broadcast.
  • The preview has no sound: Check that the Media Source is not muted and that its audio appears in the OBS mixer. Listen during the test rather than assuming the video’s audio is being sent.
  • The stream health is poor: Reduce output quality or bitrate until the connection can sustain it, then test again. YouTube recommends matching quality to a reliable upload bitrate and monitoring stream health.
  • You cannot start a livestream: Check channel verification and whether YouTube has placed a livestreaming restriction on the channel within the previous 90 days.
  • You want several files to cycle: Use VLC Video and Loop Playlist rather than adding a single Media Source and expecting it to manage a playlist; install the VLC edition matching 64-bit OBS when applicable.

Copyright and channel policy still apply

Looping a file does not give you permission to broadcast its contents. Use video and audio you own or have permission to livestream, and review YouTube’s copyright and channel rules before broadcasting. Repeating material also does not make it original or exempt from YouTube’s policies; OBS controls playback, while YouTube’s rules govern what you may stream and how the channel is treated.

Or let it run in the cloud

If your goal is a continuously looping YouTube stream rather than learning OBS, StreamNeo runs uploaded videos from the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home. Your upload streams as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot; StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. The Monthly plan is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo is for YouTube and uploaded videos, not a live camera feed. Start your free day with StreamNeo.

Best Value
OBSBOT Meet 2-4K Webcam for PC with 1/2" Sensor, AI Framing & Autofocus
  • 【OBSBOT × EWC 2025 Official Partnership】OBSBOT is thrilled to be the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) Official Camera & Webcam Partner. Leveraging cutting-edge AI camera tech, OBSBOT will deliver immersive live broadcasts, capturing every epic moment of elite gamers. Also, OBSBOT provides content creators and streamers with the same pro imaging solutions, empowering global players to record esports highlights via EWC-approved AI camera tech.
  • 【Mini in Size, Mighty in Sight】The upgraded OBSBOT Meet 2 webcam 4K combines AI features with a sleek compact design. Enjoy a wide selection of colors to personalize your setup, and experience improved performance without the high cost.
  • 【Experience Stunning 4K Clarity】The UHD 4K resolution, coupled with the bigger 1/2" CMOS sensor, expands the Meet 2 webcam's light-sensitive area, boosting its light capture capacity to yield clearer, brighter images.
  • 【AI Framing and Auto Focus】Whether you're alone or with a group of people, web cam's AI algorithm dynamically adjusts the composition and focus of each frame, guaranteeing you're always in the spotlight.
  • 【Dynamic Gesture Control】 Along with the 2.0 dynamic gesture control, our streaming camera says goodbye to cumbersome manual operation. Simply face the web cam, make an “🖐” gesture to open/close AI framing, and make an “👆” gesture to control the zoom easily.
Rank #4
Sale
EMEET PIXY Dual-Camera AI-Powered PTZ Camera 4K, AI Tracking
  • World's 1st Dual-Camera AI-Powered PTZ 4K Webcam - EMEET PIXY combines a 4K main imaging camera with PDAF focus and 1/2.55" sensor for ultra-clear video. Another auxiliary AI camera detects face position to optimize autofocus and exposure for flawless skin tones under any light. PDAF and AI Autofocus work together for blink-speed 0.2s focusing vs Others’ 1.1s. Ideal for both still and moving scenes like beauty streaming, product demos, fitness shows, online teaching, business meetings and more.
  • 3-chip Smoother Intelligent Tracking - PIXY streaming camera uses 3-chip AI for faster, smoother performance than 1-chip models. The imaging chip keeps stable framing, AI assist chip predicts motion and lighting for seamless tracking, and the PTZ chip enables 310° pan/180° tilt. Gesture control activates with an open palm held center for 2s. As dancers spin, step, and move across the stage, PIXY web cam automatically adjusts to keep bodies centered and skin tones flawless for video streaming.
  • EMEET STUDIO Control Software – Features are easily controlled via EMEET STUDIO. Preset positions switch angles instantly; fine-tuning ensures perfect framing. Whiteboard mode auto-detects boards with manual adjustment—no stickers needed. Privacy mode activates by tilt, timer, or app. FOV adjusts in 1080P&2K 30FPS; locked in 4K 30FPS & 1080P 60FPS for stability. Built-in AIGC creates shot lists and movements. The PIXY podcast camera also can be used with a remote (ASIN: B0FP281Z19) buying separately.
  • 3-Mic Array for Multiple Scenes - EMEET PIXY PTZ camera uses a triple-mic array for crystal-clear sound. Live Mode filters steady noise like fans&AC for smooth live streams. Noise Canceling Mode blocks both steady hums and sudden sounds like keyboard clicks or door slams, designed for podcasts, courses, and recordings. Original Sound Mode captures full ambient detail for music and singing.With multiple recording modes, PIXY streaming webcam achieves studio-grade versatility without extra mics.
  • PIXY Makes Pro Studio Easy, Affordable & Engaging - PIXY 4K webcam for PC with "adorable dual eyes" delivers emotional, immersive streams. Dual-axis PTZ smoothly tracks every move without blind area. Mount via clip (included) or tripod (sold separately). Compatible with OBS, Twitch, YouTube, Switch 2 Camera, Xbox, Windows 10+ (64-bit), macOS 10.14+. Unlike gear-heavy phones or costly DSLRs, PIXY live streaming camera unifies imaging, tracking, audio, and AI into one facecam.
Rank #3
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 #2
Sale
OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite 4K Webcam for PC, AI Tracking PTZ Streaming Camera
  • 【OBSBOT × EWC 2026 Official Partnership】As an Official OBSBOT Partner of the Esports World Cup 2026, OBSBOT powers the future of esports broadcasting with cutting-edge AI imaging technology. From immersive live productions to every defining in-game moment, OBSBOT delivers exceptional precision, clarity, and intelligent camera performance. Beyond the arena, OBSBOT empowers creators and streamers worldwide with professional imaging solutions, helping them capture, create, and share their own esports stories with confidence.
  • 【Stay Pro, Stay Productive】The new version Tiny 2 Lite webcam 4K streamlines some streaming features (whiteboard mode and voice control) to prioritize teaching and meeting scenarios. Reasonable price, uncompromised quality. The inherited 4K resolution & 1/2'' CMOS sensor and easier operation make it a more professional business shooting partner.
  • 【Your Tracking Mode,Your Rule】The web cam boasts multiple tracking modes (e.g. upper body& hand tracking), to cater to a broader audience with diverse tracking needs. Beyond just these features, the PTZ camera also allows you to customize tracking areas and Non-tracking area, offering unparalleled freedom for personalized tracking.
  • 【Customizable Preset Modes】The webcam for PC newly upgraded Preset Position function not only can set multiple preset positions, but also customizes separate parameters and AI tracking modes for each preset position. Even when the scene switches, it reduces adjustment time while still ensuring that every frame is shot at the optimal setting.
  • 【Dynamic Gesture Control】 Along with the 2.0 dynamic gesture control, our streaming camera says goodbye to cumbersome manual operation. Simply face the web cam, make an “🖐” gesture to lock the portrait tracking target, and make an “👆” gesture to control the zoom easily.

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.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi