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OBS Studio is the best free fit for looping pre-recorded video on YouTube Live: use its Media Source for one file, or its VLC Video source for a playlist. OBS can repeat the media, but it cannot guarantee an unattended 24/7 stream; your computer, power, network and YouTube connection still need to stay available.
Choose the right OBS source
| What you want to play | OBS source | What to enable | Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| One video repeatedly | Media Source | Loop | A supported local video file |
| A sequence of videos repeatedly | VLC Video | Loop Playlist | VLC installed; 64-bit VLC if you use 64-bit OBS |
OBS is free and open-source streaming and recording software. Its Media Source supports common formats including MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF and WebM. The VLC Video source can play a playlist and repeat it, but requires VLC to be installed. OBS Media Sources documentation
Set up a single video in OBS
- Install and open OBS Studio. Confirm your version and system meet the current requirements on the OBS Project download page.
- Create a scene. In the Scenes panel, add or select a scene for the video.
- Add the file. In Sources, select + → Media Source. Create a new source, name it, and choose the local video file.
- Enable looping. In the Media Source properties, check Loop, then select OK. The file starts again after playback ends.
- Fit the picture to the canvas. Select the source in the preview and use Transform → Fit to Screen if needed. Check that the scene’s canvas aspect ratio suits the video so it does not appear unexpectedly cropped or surrounded by empty space.
- Check audio. Watch the Audio Mixer while the file plays. Confirm the correct source is moving and that playback is audible at a reasonable level without clipping.
Set up a playlist that repeats
- Install VLC. Match the architecture to OBS: 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC for the VLC Video source.
- Prepare the playlist. Add the videos in the sequence you want. Check that each file is available locally and plays before relying on it in a live stream.
- Add the source. In OBS, select + in Sources → VLC Video. Create a source and add the playlist files in the source properties.
- Enable repeat. Check Loop Playlist so the source restarts after it reaches the end of the list. OBS documents this separately from the single-file Loop option. OBS Media Sources documentation
- Review order and transitions. Play the source in OBS and confirm the sequence, picture framing and audio at the transitions. If you change the playlist later, test the updated source before going live.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
YouTube Live uses an encoder to convert and send your video to YouTube. OBS is the encoder in this setup; the video source supplies the prerecorded content. YouTube’s exact Studio labels and availability can change, so follow the current controls shown for your channel. YouTube: Live streaming with an encoder
Recommended Free Tools
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- Check channel eligibility. YouTube says a channel must be verified, have no live-stream restrictions in the preceding 90 days, and the streamer must be at least 16. Confirm current rules and your channel’s status in YouTube’s live-streaming eligibility guidance before planning a broadcast.
- Create or select a live stream in YouTube Studio. Open the Live Control Room and follow the on-screen steps for the stream you intend to run.
- Copy the stream URL and stream key. Treat the key as a password: anyone with access to it may be able to send video to your stream. Do not publish it or include it in a screen recording.
- Enter the connection details in OBS. Open Settings → Stream, choose YouTube as the service, and connect or enter the stream URL and key using the method YouTube and OBS currently provide.
- Test before starting publicly. Start the encoder and check the Live Control Room preview. Verify the picture, audio and stream accessibility before you begin the public broadcast. YouTube recommends testing and monitoring stream quality. YouTube: Live streaming tips
- Start the broadcast from the appropriate controls. Follow the current YouTube Studio and OBS prompts; confirm in Live Control Room that the stream is live and the intended scene is playing.
Prepare for a long-running stream
A looping source only repeats media; it does not make the whole broadcast unattended or fault-proof. In a local setup, OBS must keep running, the computer must remain powered, and the network connection must continue to work. YouTube recommends testing and continuously monitoring audio and video quality, but this is not a guarantee of uninterrupted operation. YouTube: Live streaming tips
#1 Best Overall
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
- Disable sleep or automatic shutdown while the stream is running, and make sure the computer has reliable power.
- Use a dependable network connection and test the stream under the conditions in which it will run.
- Check that the source does not end, go black, lose audio or show an error when a file finishes or changes.
- Keep OBS and YouTube Studio accessible so you can respond if the encoder or live connection stops.
- If a complete YouTube replay matters, keep a local recording as a backup. YouTube says streams shorter than 12 hours can be automatically archived; streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured at all. YouTube: Archive live streams
Check rights before you broadcast
You are responsible for having the rights needed to stream the video and its audio, including music. YouTube’s live-stream terms require live content to comply with its Community Guidelines and the provider to have the necessary rights. Permission to use a track in a private video or on another service does not automatically establish permission to broadcast and archive it on YouTube. Review the applicable YouTube terms and obtain authorization for all included material before going live.
Repeatedly broadcasting prerecorded content does not by itself establish that a channel complies with YouTube’s policies or qualifies for monetization. Review current YouTube policies for the channel and content rather than assuming that a loop is exempt.
Rank #2
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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.
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Troubleshoot common problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| The single video stops at the end | Loop is not enabled on the Media Source. | Open the source properties, enable Loop, and replay the ending to confirm it starts again. |
| The playlist stops after its final file | Loop Playlist is off, or the VLC source is not configured as intended. | Check the VLC Video source properties and verify the playlist plays through in OBS. |
| VLC Video is missing or fails to load | VLC may not be installed, or its architecture may not match OBS. | Install VLC; if OBS is 64-bit, install 64-bit VLC. Reopen OBS and check the source again. |
| YouTube does not receive the stream | The encoder may have the wrong stream URL or key, or the channel may not be eligible to stream. | Confirm the current stream details in YouTube Studio, replace the key in OBS if necessary, and check channel eligibility. |
| YouTube preview is black or silent | The wrong OBS scene or source may be active, or the media/audio source may not be playing. | Check the OBS preview, source visibility and Audio Mixer, then verify the result in Live Control Room before broadcasting. |
| The stream drops while the file keeps looping locally | The encoder, computer, power or network connection may have failed. | Check OBS and the network, then reconnect using the current YouTube Studio stream controls. A looping file cannot recover a failed connection by itself. |
| The full live broadcast is missing from archives | The stream exceeded YouTube’s stated 12-hour archive threshold. | For a complete replay, plan around the under-12-hour guidance and keep a local recording as a backup. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If you do not want a computer and home connection to remain on, StreamNeo is the cloud alternative for keeping an uploaded video or playlist live on YouTube. Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Your computer can then be off. It plays uploaded videos, not a live camera feed, and streams to YouTube only.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
- One flat price per slot for any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps; StreamNeo streams the file as made, without re-encoding or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card, once per account.
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
See StreamNeo for plan details, then start your free first day.
Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 2
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Capture Card 4K HDMI Video Streaming to USB 3.0 1080P 60FPS Capture Device
- 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
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Rank #3
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.
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