First identify what OBS is playing: a single local file, a playlist of local files, or a YouTube playlist embedded in a Browser Source. The fix differs for each. A Media Source’s Loop setting repeats one file; use VLC Video Source for a local playlist, or configure YouTube’s playlist parameters for an embedded YouTube playlist. Also check whether scene changes are hiding and reactivating the source.
Identify the source that is restarting
In OBS, open the source’s properties and check its type. OBS distinguishes Media Source, which plays media files, from VLC Video Source, which supports a playlist, and Browser Source, which can display a YouTube embed. The source type determines which loop and playback controls apply.
- Media Source: one local media file.
- VLC Video Source: a list of local files.
- Browser Source: a web page or embedded YouTube player, possibly showing a YouTube playlist.
Fix a single local file that starts over
Open the Media Source properties and distinguish end-of-file looping from playback restarting when the source becomes active. The OBS Project’s Media Sources documentation describes Loop as controlling whether the file plays again after playback completes.
- Open the scene containing the source and select the Media Source.
- Open its properties.
- Enable Loop if you want that same file to play again when it reaches the end.
- Review Restart playback when source becomes active. If the file restarts when you switch scenes or make the source visible, disable this option if you want playback to continue rather than start over on activation.
- Apply the settings and observe what happens at the end of the file and when the source is hidden and shown again. These are separate playback events controlled by separate settings.
Fix a playlist made from local files
A Media Source is for a media file, not a multi-file playlist. For local files, use OBS’s VLC Video Source, add the files in the desired order, and set the playlist and visibility behavior there.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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
- Add a VLC Video Source to the scene and open its properties.
- Add the local media files to the playlist in the order you want them to play.
- Enable Loop Playlist if the list should start again after its final item.
- Set Visibility Behaviour according to what should happen when the source is hidden: stop and restart when visible, pause and resume, or always play.
- If the VLC source is unavailable or does not work, install VLC. OBS notes that a 64-bit OBS installation requires 64-bit VLC.
The controls have different effects: Loop Playlist repeats the list at its end, while Visibility Behaviour determines what happens when the source is hidden. Choose the latter to match your scene-switching needs.
Fix a YouTube playlist in an embedded player
If OBS is displaying a YouTube playlist through Browser Source, the local-file Loop checkbox does not control that playlist. YouTube’s embedded-player parameters use playlist-specific settings.
Rank #2
- 【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.
- In the YouTube embed URL, set
listType=playlist. - Set
list=PLAYLIST_ID, replacingPLAYLIST_IDwith the playlist’s ID. - Use
autoplay=1if the player should start playback automatically. - Use
loop=1to repeat the playlist after it reaches the end.
YouTube treats looping a playlist differently from looping a single video. These playlist settings apply to an embedded YouTube player; they do not change how OBS plays local files.
Check scene changes if the settings look right
If playback still starts over, check whether the source is being hidden and made active again as you switch scenes. For a local file, inspect Restart playback when source becomes active in Media Source properties. For a VLC playlist, inspect Visibility Behaviour. Also confirm that the source is actually the kind you think it is: an embedded YouTube playlist uses player parameters, not local-file loop controls. Without the source type and its configured properties, there is no single setting that can be identified as the cause.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #3
- 【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.
Optional alternative for local playlists
The OBS forum lists a third-party Media Playlist Source as another option for local playlists. It is not required for the fixes above. Before installing a plugin, check its current maintenance status and compatibility with your OBS version.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is unattended prerecorded broadcasting to YouTube rather than repairing a local OBS source, StreamNeo runs uploaded videos or playlists from the cloud: upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it streams your upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly is $9.99 per month. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- High-Quality Video Capture, 4K HDMI Capture Card Ready: Capture smooth and vibrant video with this 4K HDMI capture card, engineered for gamers and content creators who demand crisp 1080P 60FPS video quality. Whether you're streaming to Twitch or recording gameplay for YouTube, your footage will look professional and detailed
- Plug-and-Play USB Capture Card, No Drivers Needed: Designed as a USB capture card for streaming, this device works instantly out of the box, just plug into your PC or laptop and start capturing. Fully compatible with popular software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit, making setup quick and stress-free for beginners and pros alike
- Universal Compatibility PS5, Xbox, Switch & More: Stream or record gameplay from virtually any HDMI-enabled device including Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X, DSLR cameras, and PCs. The video capture card for gaming supports seamless passthrough so you can play without lag while your audience watches every frame in real time
- Low-Latency Performance for Smooth Streaming: This capture card for streaming minimizes delay between gameplay and broadcast, so you get reliable, low-latency capture that works well for competitive gaming, live broadcasts, and podcast sessions. Suitable for those building their channel with high-quality, engaging content
- Compact & Portable Design for Content Creators: Lightweight and portable, this USB 3.0 capture card works well for creators who travel or switch gaming setups often. Throw it in your bag and stream or record wherever you are, at home, events, LAN parties, streaming or studio sessions
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.
