For an always-on YouTube channel, Castr has the clearer documented fit—especially if you want to loop uploaded videos without a live encoder. Dacast can send an existing encoder-based live channel to YouTube, but its published plans list only a limited number of Simulcast hours each month. Confirm Dacast can cover your exact schedule before choosing it for 24/7 use.
If your goal is simply to keep uploaded programming running on YouTube without leaving a computer on, StreamNeo is another option: it runs the loop in the cloud, supports uploads up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and offers a free first day.
Which service fits your kind of always-on stream?
The first decision is whether your YouTube channel will be fed by a live source—such as a camera or production encoder—or by prerecorded videos that play in a loop. Dacast and Castr support different workflows, and their plan limits matter as much as the headline promise of continuous streaming.
| Need | Dacast | Castr | What it means |
|---|---|---|---|
| Send a live encoder feed to YouTube | Simulcast forwards an existing encoder live channel to YouTube; it does not create the channel itself. Dacast Simulcast API documentation | YouTube can be added by connecting an account or entering YouTube’s RTMP server and stream key. Castr says continuous duration is supported while the subscription is active and bandwidth is sufficient, provided the source stays live. Castr 24/7 help article · Castr YouTube setup | For a live production feed, compare actual streaming duration, bandwidth and concurrency limits, then test your source and destination configuration. |
| Loop uploaded videos without a live source | Dacast supports VOD-to-Live generally, but the available plan and support information does not establish continuous looping to YouTube on a standard plan. | Castr documents uploading a prerecorded file and scheduling it or looping it continuously to YouTube; it says this workflow does not require a live source or encoder. File duration and simultaneous prerecorded-stream limits depend on plan. Castr prerecorded-video workflow | Castr is the closer documented fit for uploaded-video programming. Check file-duration and concurrency limits against your playlist. |
| Run a channel continuously | Published Simulcast allotments are finite and monthly; the standard figures do not establish an uninterrupted 24/7 schedule. | Castr describes unlimited event duration subject to an active subscription, sufficient bandwidth and a live source. Its separate prerecorded workflow has its own plan constraints. | Ask Dacast to confirm your exact schedule and plan in writing. With Castr, calculate bandwidth and confirm the number of simultaneous streams and destinations you need. |
Neither service removes YouTube from the delivery path. Destination-side operation and limitations remain dependent on YouTube, and a hosted service adds another system between your source and the destination. Dacast describes itself as the origin when Simulcast forwards a channel to other destinations. Dacast Simulcasting guide
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- Compact but Powerful Design: ZowieBox is smaller than a phone, featuring a tally light and LCD screen for streaming status. Capture console gameplay in up to 4K with zero-lag HDMI passthrough, while the built-in video encoder converts video for IP streaming. The IP stream can also be decoded back to a 4K HDMI signal.
- Standalone Game Streaming: Just plug and play—ZowieBox enables PC-free live gaming without affecting gameplay. As an RTMP hardware encoder and HDMI streamer, it delivers stable streaming directly from your source, making it ideal for gaming, live events, and professional broadcasting.
- NDI|HX3 Converter Technology: ZowieBox converts HDMI signals to NDI|HX3/HX2/HX, functioning as an NDI video encoder, or NDI Video Decoder for flexible IP workflows. Certified NDI technology enables low-latency gameplay streaming through OBS/vMix. Note: Encoder and decoder modes cannot run simultaneously; full NDI signals are not supported.
- UVC to HDMI Conversion: Supporting up to 4K@30fps and 1080p@60fps decoding, ZowieBox enables flexible conversion for webcam and video workflows. As a video decoder and HDMI to IP converter, it expands connectivity options for professional video devices. Note: USB capture card functionality is not currently supported.
- All-around Configuration Options: Control ZowieBox through its web UI on a PC, phone, or tablet. Manage connected PTZ cameras, tally light, video/audio, OSD, work mode, streams, network, and system settings. Support for VISCA over IP encoder workflows enables flexible PTZ control, while the dashboard provides video preview and system status.
How Dacast Simulcast hours affect a 24/7 schedule
Dacast’s published plan and support pages list these Simulcast hours. Dacast says the hours reset monthly and unused time does not roll over; the published figures were available on its pricing and support pages accessed October 3, 2026. Pricing and terms can change, so verify them before purchase. Dacast pricing · How Dacast charges for Simulcast
| Dacast plan | Published Simulcast time |
|---|---|
| Starter | 5 hours per month |
| Event | 10 hours per month |
| Scale | 28 hours per month |
| Custom | 40 hours per month |
These allowances are not enough to support an uninterrupted 24/7 schedule on their face. The published material does not establish whether a custom arrangement can provide continuous YouTube Simulcast or what it would cost. If Dacast is otherwise a good match, ask its sales team to confirm coverage for your intended channel, schedule and destinations before committing.
Published plan prices and resource limits
The figures below are vendor-published plan details, not independently measured performance. Dacast prices shown are billed annually; its Custom plan requires a quote. Castr’s monthly and annual-billing prices and allowances were listed on its pricing page accessed October 3, 2026. Treat them as a dated snapshot and confirm current terms with each provider. Dacast pricing · Castr pricing
Rank #2
- 【Hardware H.265/H.264 Encoding at 1080P60】Dedicated hardware encoder delivers broadcast-quality 1080P60 streams with H.265/H.264 compression. Reduces bandwidth usage by up to 50% compared to legacy H.264-only solutions, while maintaining crisp, crystal-clear video output.
- 【Broad Protocol Support for IP Distribution】 Supports SRT, RTMP(S), RTSP, UDP, HTTP, HLS, WebRTC, TRTC, Icecast and SHOUTcast — integrate seamlessly with CDNs, surveillance NVRs, IPTV systems and browser-based monitoring dashboards. One device replaces multiple single-purpose streaming boxes.
- 【Browser-Based Setup in Minutes】 Set up in minutes through any browser — no software, drivers or OS compatibility issues. DHCP is enabled by default to prevent IP address conflicts on your network. Note: basic networking knowledge (IP address, RTSP/RTMP configuration) is recommended for advanced streaming setups.
- 【Compact Design with Flexible Deployment】Palm-sized form factor (approx. 90×54×29mm) fits easily behind monitors, on shelves, or in equipment racks. Low power consumption ensures reliable 24/7 operation for live events, remote monitoring, and digital signage.
- 【Professional Audio & OSD Overlay + 1-Year Warranty】 Supports HDMI embedded audio plus external 3.5mm input. Built-in OSD generator adds scrolling text, logos, or timestamps directly to the video stream — ideal for branding, event info, or security labeling. Backed by a 1-year warranty and 24/7 online technical support.
| Service and plan | Published price | Bandwidth | Storage | Streams and destinations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dacast Starter | $39/month billed annually | 2.4 TB annual | 500 GB | Simulcast: 5 hours/month |
| Dacast Event | $63/month billed annually | 6 TB upfront | 250 GB | Simulcast: 10 hours/month |
| Dacast Scale | $165/month billed annually | 24 TB annual | 2,000 GB | Simulcast: 28 hours/month |
| Dacast Custom | Quote required | Not stated on the cited pricing page | Not stated on the cited pricing page | Simulcast: 40 hours/month |
| Castr Starter | $19.99/month, or $16.67/month billed annually | 200 GB monthly, or 2.4 TB annual pool | 100 GB | 2 streams monthly / 3 annually; 6 destinations |
| Castr Standard | $49.99/month, or $41.67/month billed annually | 500 GB monthly, or 6 TB annual pool | 200 GB | 2 streams monthly / 3 annually; 10 destinations |
| Castr Premium | $199.99/month, or $166.67/month billed annually | 3 TB monthly, or 36 TB annual pool | 2 TB | 5 streams monthly / 10 annually; 20 destinations |
| Castr Ultra | $349.99/month, or $291.67/month billed annually | 5 TB monthly, or 60 TB annual pool | 3 TB | 10 streams monthly / 15 annually; 30 destinations |
Castr’s pricing page advertises a 99.9% uptime SLA; that is the vendor’s stated SLA, not an independent uptime measurement. A stated allowance or SLA is not a substitute for checking whether your expected bitrate, viewership and continuous operating schedule fit your account.
The Tool Desk
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Do not compare monthly prices without checking how a continuous channel consumes bandwidth and storage. The amount required depends on the stream’s bitrate, viewing hours and audience playback, along with how each service accounts for the stream and viewers. A busy channel can use substantially more delivery bandwidth than a low-viewership test.
- Bitrate and hours: Higher source bitrate and longer operating time increase data use. Use your actual planned bitrate and schedule rather than a generic 24/7 estimate.
- Audience playback: Estimate expected viewing, not just the feed sent from your encoder. Ask the provider how its bandwidth allowance applies to live delivery and viewers.
- Storage: For prerecorded programming, total the files you plan to upload and check both the account’s storage allowance and any per-file duration limits.
- Concurrency and destinations: Confirm how many simultaneous streams you need and how many platforms each stream must reach. Castr lists both figures by plan.
- Billing period: Compare the monthly allowance with the annual pool and billing commitment. Confirm what happens when a pool is exhausted or the channel exceeds plan limits.
Ask the provider to validate the calculation for unusually high bitrate, large viewership or a schedule that must not stop. The cited pricing pages do not establish a universal bandwidth cost for every continuous-stream scenario.
Rank #3
- 【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265 /H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 4K UHD (3840x2160) video input and output, with a maximum frame rate of 30fps at 4K resolution and up to 120fps at 2K and lower resolutions, delivering a smooth and detailed visual experience. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI ultra HD video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and 4K ultra HD content transmission.
- 【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), FLV, WebRTC, TRTC, ICECAST, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- 【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- 【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- 【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
Setup differences that matter
Dacast: create the live channel before adding YouTube
- Create a Dacast encoder live channel and configure the encoder as its source. Simulcast attaches destinations to an existing channel; it does not create the stream.
- Add YouTube as a Simulcast destination for that channel and complete the destination connection.
- Recheck the encoder’s ingest URL after creating Simulcast destinations. Dacast’s support guide warns that the ingest URL changes when destinations are created, so update the encoder configuration if needed.
- Confirm the monthly Simulcast hours and whether the plan covers your schedule before relying on it for a continuous channel.
Dacast’s Simulcasting guide also notes that issues or limitations on a destination platform depend on that platform. Dacast Simulcasting guide
Castr: connect YouTube or enter its RTMP details
- In Castr, choose YouTube from Add Platform.
- Connect the relevant Google account, or use the manual RTMP option with YouTube’s server URL and stream key.
- For a live-source channel, keep the source live and check the account’s bandwidth and subscription status.
- For uploaded-video programming, use Castr’s prerecorded-video workflow to upload a file, then schedule it or configure continuous looping. Check the plan’s file-duration and simultaneous prerecorded-stream limits.
The live-source 24/7 mode and the uploaded-video loop are distinct workflows. Castr’s continuous-live guidance assumes a source that remains live; its prerecorded feature supplies the video itself. Castr 24/7 guidance · Castr prerecorded-video workflow
Or let it run in the cloud
If you are looping uploaded videos to YouTube and do not want a computer, OBS setup or home internet connection to remain on, StreamNeo is built for that workflow:
Rank #4
- ⭐【Innovative Product with Leading Technology】- Equipped with an advanced H.265/H.264 dual encoding chip, supports 1920x1080 resolution input and output, achieving 60fps high-definition presentation with realistic and delicate color reproduction and lossless detail. It also supports HDCP 1.4 decryption, easily decoding various HDMI high-definition video sources, delivering a cinematic visual experience for both professional live streaming and high-definition content transmission.
- ⭐【Multi-protocol and Multi-platform Compatibility】- Fully compatible with streaming protocols such as HTTP, RTSP, RTMP(S), SRT, HLS(M3U8), MP4, Multicast(UDP, RTP, PTL), ONVIF, FLV, it can simultaneously output 4 video streams with different protocols and push them to live streaming platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch, and Vimeo with one click. Simultaneous live streaming across multiple platforms can be achieved without additional equipment.
- ⭐【Highly Customizable Settings to Meet Individual Needs】- It supports adding static text, scrolling captions, brand logos, and timestamps. Users can freely adjust core parameters such as video resolution, frame rate, and bitrate, and also perform personalized editing functions such as video cropping, rotation, flipping, and mirroring. It supports dual input of HDMI embedded audio and line-in audio, with adjustable sound quality, making your live stream content more distinctive and allowing you to create a unique brand live stream style.
- ⭐【Stable and Efficient Transmission, Easy Operation】- Employing HDMI to Ethernet core connection technology, it ensures stable and reliable network transmission with low latency and no lag, adapting to various network environments. Equipped with an intuitive user interface and detailed instruction manual, no professional technical background is required; setup can be completed quickly after connecting the device. It is also compatible with multiple terminals such as computers and mobile phones for management, and the video stream status can be viewed in real time via a URL.
- ⭐【Lifetime Free Warranty and Technical Supports】- All URayCoder video codecs come with a lifetime free warranty and technical supports, supporting secondary development and feature customization to meet enterprise-level personalized needs. Meanwhile, we providing many kinds of customization services such as shell pattern printing, logo addition, hardware and function development, ensuring reliable quality and worry-free after-sales service.
- Upload a recording or build a playlist.
- Add your YouTube stream key once.
- Go live; StreamNeo loops the uploaded programming from the cloud.
Nothing has to stay on at home. Each slot streams your upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot rather than quality-based tiers. If YouTube drops the stream, StreamNeo automatically attempts recovery. The first day is free with no card required.
Monthly pricing: $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo or start your free first day.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Common problems and what to check
Dacast’s YouTube Simulcast stops before the schedule is complete
Check the plan’s remaining monthly Simulcast hours and confirm the current allowance with Dacast. The published allocations are finite, reset monthly and do not roll over; they do not establish a 24/7 standard-plan schedule.
Best Value
- 【Local Recording & Video Cropping – EH1211 Exclusive Features】 This mini HDMI video encoder supports local recording to USB drive or TF card – it can record both RTSP streaming video and direct HDMI input to external storage. The built-in video cropping function lets you customize the encoding region, making it easy to adapt input to needed displays or focus on specific areas. With its space-saving design, EH1211 is ideal for classrooms, conference rooms, and digital signage installations.
- 【ORIVISION Advantage& Ultra Mini Model】- This ORIVISION ultra mini video encoder has high integration with low cost. Ultra mini size(125x72x25mm) and light weight (200g) of H.265 encoder is perfect for live broadcasting applications with frequent move or tiny device installation space. IP encoder has 1 X HDMI Input and loop-out, 1 X 3.5mm audio input,1 X 3.5mm audio output(new), 1X USB2.0 port(new), 1X TF card port(new). IPTV encoder support audio encoding without video input.
- 【1080P@30HZ Input/Output Resolution & 2 Channel Output】- HDMI encoder supports max 1080P@30 resolution HD input and output. The video encoder for live broadcasting can output 2 channels feeds at the same time. While only 1 channel can reach 1080p output. The H.265/ H.264 encoder supports multiple different protocol feeds output at the same time, but does not support simultaneous output 1080P30.
- 【Multi-Protocols & Software & Platform & Flip Supporting】- Hardware encoder supports protocols including HTTP/HTTPS/RTSP/RTMP/RTMPS/SRT/UDP/RTP/FLS/FLV,is compatible with Onvif protocol. Multicast UDP/RTP. HDMI video encoder supports software like Flashplayer, OBS, VLC player, Vmix..etc. Fit for Youtube, Facebook, Ustream, Livestream, Twitch, Vimeo, Streamspot, Dacast, Tikilive, Netrmedi, etc. This video encoder also supports new function of image rotation and mirror flip. More convenient for live broadcasting.
- 【Powerful OSD Setting】- OSD setting function of the live broadcasting encoder makes it easy for you to add any self-defined text, time and image overlay on your video when output displayed. You may add any text/logo at any position to announce your copyrights with this hevc video encoder.
The Dacast encoder no longer connects after adding a destination
Recheck the encoder ingest URL in the Dacast channel configuration. Dacast warns that the URL changes when Simulcast destinations are created, so the encoder may still be pointing to its previous value.
Castr’s continuous live stream ends or cannot start
Check that the subscription is active, the source remains live and the account has enough streaming bandwidth. Castr’s stated unlimited-duration support is conditional on these requirements, not an unlimited bandwidth allowance.
A Castr prerecorded loop will not fit the account
Check the plan’s file-duration and simultaneous prerecorded-stream limits, then compare them with the uploaded file or playlist you intend to run. The prerecorded workflow does not use the same source assumption as Castr’s live-source 24/7 guidance.
YouTube does not show the stream as expected
Verify the correct YouTube account or RTMP server and stream key, then check the destination’s own status and settings. A connection service cannot eliminate YouTube-side restrictions or destination problems; Dacast explicitly distinguishes destination-platform limitations from its own Simulcast service.
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Neither Dacast nor Castr grants rights to the music, footage or other material you upload. Before putting a playlist on a continuous public stream, confirm that you have the necessary rights and that the content complies with YouTube’s applicable rules. A stream running technically does not establish that its content is permitted or that a channel will meet YouTube’s monetization requirements. Review the relevant rights and channel requirements before scheduling programming.
StreamNeo offers a copyright safety checklist to help review uploads before streaming.
Quick Recap
Decision guide
- Want an uploaded-video loop without leaving a computer on? StreamNeo is #1 for this use case: it runs continuously from the cloud, supports any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and gives the first day free.
- Want to loop prerecorded files through a hosted multistreaming service? Castr is the closer documented fit of these two: it describes continuous prerecorded-video playout to YouTube, subject to plan limits.
- Have a live encoder feed and already use Dacast? Dacast can forward an existing live channel to YouTube, but verify that its Simulcast-hour allowance or a custom arrangement covers the full schedule.
- Need many concurrent channels, destinations or substantial bandwidth? Compare each plan’s published limits with your actual requirement and confirm any overage or continuous-use terms directly with the provider.
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.
