What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
For one local video file, use OBS’s Media Source and turn on Loop. For a sequence of local files, use VLC Video Source and turn on Loop Playlist. That does not mean OBS’s VLC source is a documented way to play a YouTube playlist URL: OBS describes a local media playlist, while YouTube’s playlist embed workflow is separate.
Which OBS source should you use?
| Your goal | Use | Setting or caveat |
|---|---|---|
| Repeat one local audio or video file | Media Source | Enable Loop. It is off by default. |
| Play several local files in order and repeat the list | VLC Video Source | Enable Loop Playlist; OBS documentation lists it as on by default. VLC must be installed. |
| Play a YouTube-hosted playlist in an embedded player | YouTube’s embed workflow | This is separate from OBS’s documented VLC playlist of local media files. |
The choice is about the material you are playing and the controls you need. The available OBS documentation does not establish a performance winner for CPU or GPU use, reliability, or transition smoothness.
How to loop one local file with Media Source
- In OBS Studio, add a Media Source to the scene and select the local media file.
- Enable Loop in the source properties. The file will repeat when playback completes.
- Check the other playback options against your scene: Restart playback when source becomes active and Show nothing when playback ends are on by default.
OBS documents Media Source for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Its built-in media handling supports formats including MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF, WebM, MP3, AAC, OGG, and WAV. Playback speed can be set from 1% (0.01x) to 200% (2x).
How to loop several local files with VLC Video Source
- Install VLC on the same computer as OBS. The VLC Video Source only appears in OBS when VLC is installed; match the architectures, such as 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS.
- In OBS, add a VLC Video Source and create or populate its playlist with the local media files you want played in sequence.
- Keep Loop Playlist enabled to repeat the list. OBS documents this as on by default. Leave Shuffle Playlist off for the listed order, or enable it if you want randomized playback.
- Review visibility behavior if the source is hidden and shown during a production. OBS’s documented defaults are to stop when not visible and restart when visible.
VLC Video Source uses VLC libraries for extended media support. Its documented network caching default is 400 ms. These are configuration details, not evidence that VLC Video Source is faster or more reliable than Media Source.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Can OBS play a YouTube playlist URL?
Do not assume that pasting a regular YouTube playlist page URL into VLC Video Source will work as a native playlist player. OBS documents VLC Video Source as a playlist of media items; the reviewed documentation does not establish support for a standard YouTube playlist URL in that field.
YouTube’s documented embed procedure is to open Share, choose Embed, copy the HTML, and place it in website HTML. That is not the same workflow as adding local files to OBS’s VLC Video Source. YouTube says its API Terms of Service and Developer Policies apply to embedded-player access and use.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
If you need a YouTube playlist specifically, use YouTube’s playlist URL or its documented embed workflow for the intended context, and test the whole playback path before a live broadcast. When sharing a playlist, check that the copied URL identifies the playlist rather than only one video. Items may be unavailable in an embedded player if their uploaders disabled embedding; private videos must be shared with the viewer, and age-restricted videos cannot be watched on most third-party websites.
What changes when you send the scene to YouTube Live?
The source setting only controls OBS playback; it does not complete YouTube’s separate livestream setup. YouTube lists encoder software as a streaming path and says a channel must be verified and have no live-stream restrictions in the preceding 90 days to livestream. Confirm that your channel is eligible and that your OBS stream is configured before relying on a loop for a broadcast.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Also check that you have rights to the audio and video you broadcast and that the material complies with YouTube’s rules. A playlist looping correctly in OBS does not establish permission to stream its contents.
Troubleshoot a playlist that will not loop or play
- VLC Video Source is missing: Install VLC and make sure its architecture matches OBS; OBS specifically notes that 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC.
- A single file stops instead of repeating: Open Media Source properties and enable Loop; it defaults off.
- The last playlist item plays but the list does not restart: Check Loop Playlist in VLC Video Source properties.
- Files play in an unexpected order: Check whether Shuffle Playlist is enabled. Its documented default is off.
- A source stops when hidden: Review the VLC Video Source visibility behavior. Its documented default is to stop when not visible and restart when visible. Media Source also defaults to restarting playback when the source becomes active.
- A YouTube playlist item is missing in an embed: Check whether the video is private, embedding is disabled, or the video is age-restricted. These are YouTube playlist/embed access issues, not settings fixed by OBS’s local VLC playlist loop.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the goal is a YouTube channel that keeps uploaded video playing 24/7, StreamNeo is an alternative to leaving OBS running on a home computer. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live; StreamNeo loops uploaded videos from the cloud. Nothing has to stay on at home, it preserves the upload quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and it automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo streams to YouTube only; see StreamNeo for details. India-based creators can pay by UPI.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Start your free StreamNeo 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.
