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To crop portrait clips for a 24/7 YouTube playlist stream, compose a portrait-sized scene in OBS, add your clip or a VLC Video playlist, crop the source with Alt-drag (Windows/Linux) or Option-drag (macOS), then resize and position it to fill the canvas. Test the playlist, stream preview, audio, and recording before leaving it running. A computer-based OBS setup needs the computer, power, and network connection to remain available; for a cloud alternative, see StreamNeo.
Set up a portrait scene and playlist in OBS
1. Choose a portrait canvas
For a program intended to be vertical, set OBS’s base canvas and output to portrait dimensions, then build the scene for that shape. The OBS crop and transform controls do not prescribe a particular resolution for this project. Choose a resolution and frame rate compatible with your destination and the capacity of your computer and connection; check YouTube’s current encoder recommendations rather than relying on generic bitrate figures that may be out of date.
2. Add one clip or several
For one local file, add a Media Source and enable its Loop option if you want that clip to repeat. For a sequence of local clips, add a VLC Video source, add the files in playback order, and keep Shuffle Playlist off for sequential playback. VLC must be installed, and its architecture must match OBS: for example, 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. VLC Video’s Loop Playlist setting defaults to on; verify it in the source properties. If the source is configured to stop when it is not visible, hiding or switching away from its scene can affect playback.
3. Crop the image
- Select the video source in the OBS preview.
- Hold Alt on Windows or Linux, or Option on macOS, and drag an edge of the source’s bounding box inward to crop that side. Drag a top or bottom edge to crop vertically.
- For numeric crop values, open Edit menu → Transform → Edit Transform and adjust the crop controls.
Cropping changes the visible portion of the source; it does not automatically reframe each clip in a playlist.
#1 Best Overall
- 【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.
4. Fit and position the cropped source
After cropping, drag the source to position it and resize it to fill the portrait canvas. OBS provides Fit to Screen, Stretch to Screen, and Center to Screen transforms. Stretch to Screen can distort a clip when its aspect ratio differs from the canvas, so inspect faces, text, and important details in the preview before using it. A fixed crop is most suitable when clips share similar framing. For clips composed differently, create separate sources or scenes with their own framing, or edit the clips before adding them.
5. Check the full playlist
Preview more than the first clip. Confirm file order, transitions between files, loop behavior, crop framing, and audio across the playlist. Look for black frames, unexpected pauses, missing files, or clips whose important content falls outside the crop.
Rank #2
- 4K60 Capture: Record in cinematic quality with crisp detail and vivid colors
- HFR Support: Play and capture in 1440p120 or 1080p240
- HDR10 Support: Capture brilliant HDR content with tone mapping on Windows
- Cross-Platform Compatible: Works with PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and more
- Analog Audio In: Capture in-game chat or commentary with 3.5mm input
Choose where the vertical version is created
| Route | What it does | Best suited to | Main check |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portrait scene in OBS | You compose the crop directly in a portrait canvas. | A portrait-only program where you want the framing controlled in OBS. | Confirm the OBS canvas, output, and YouTube preview are portrait and the crop is well framed. |
| YouTube Live Control Room layout | YouTube can derive a vertical version from a horizontal stream. The default is a center crop; the editing canvas also offers fit-to-phone-width and stacked layouts. | One source program intended to serve both horizontal and vertical viewing. | A center crop can remove content at the sides. YouTube says the vertical format cannot be added after the stream has started, although an edited layout can be adjusted while live. |
| Third-party encoder dual output | The encoder sends separate horizontal and vertical outputs using RTMP(S) and a separate vertical stream key. | Independently composed horizontal and vertical versions. | Route each format to its matching key and inspect both previews; confirm current setup details in Live Control Room. |
A vertical live feed can appear in the YouTube Shorts feed and opens as a vertical viewing experience in the YouTube mobile app. Choose the format with the intended viewing experience in mind; feature availability differs from horizontal viewing.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsConnect OBS to YouTube and test before a long run
- Confirm channel eligibility. YouTube requires a verified channel with no live-stream restriction in the preceding 90 days. The creator must be at least 16 years old. First-time live-stream activation can take up to 24 hours.
- Get the encoder details. In YouTube Live Control Room, use the Live server URL and stream key for the broadcast. Treat the stream key like a password: use the intended key for the stream, do not publish it, and replace it if exposed.
- Configure the OBS stream. Enter the server URL and stream key in OBS’s streaming settings. YouTube recommends RTMPS and publishes encoder settings by resolution and frame rate; use its current recommendations for your chosen output rather than copying an unqualified bitrate from an older guide.
- Run a test stream. Use an unlisted or otherwise appropriate test. Check the Live Control Room preview, watch-page access, playback on a phone, audio and video quality, playlist order, and looping. For dual output, inspect both previews and confirm each format reaches the correct stream key.
- Monitor the broadcast. Check that the stream remains accessible and the audio and video continue to look and sound right. If recording locally, confirm the recording file is growing and can be played back.
A 24/7 OBS broadcast still depends on the machine, power, network, and playback sources continuing to work. Plan how you will notice a failure and restart or recover the stream; OBS does not make a home computer or connection interruption-proof.
Rank #3
- 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
Plan for recordings separately from the live broadcast
A continuous live stream is not necessarily a continuous YouTube archive. YouTube says streams shorter than 12 hours can be automatically archived; streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured at all. It recommends a local recording backup. Decide whether to record locally, how to rotate or retain recordings, and how to manage separate stream sessions. Estimate storage from your recording settings and how long you want to keep the files; no particular storage capacity fits every setup.
Check rights before looping videos
Use only videos and audio for which you have the necessary rights for livestreaming and any archive. Adding a file to an OBS playlist does not grant permission to rebroadcast it. YouTube scans live streams for third-party content. If it detects such material, it may replace the stream with a placeholder and warn you; if the material continues, YouTube may interrupt or terminate the stream. Even when you hold a license, the rightsholder may need to add your channel to its Content ID allowlist, and a license alone does not guarantee that live detection will not interrupt the broadcast.
Rank #4
- 【Full HD Video Capture Card】The capture card captures video and audio simultaneously, transmits the signal to your computer for preview or storage, and shares the video output to the screen. The capture card supports up to 4K30Hz input and Full HD 1080p60fps video capture, high-speed transmission without delay. Suitable for streaming media, video conferencing, game live streaming and other use scenarios
- 【3.5MM Microphone Input and Headphone Output】You can connect the capture card for streaming to a headphone connection with a 3.5.mm audio output port, and you can also connect the capture card to a 3.5mm microphone so you can easily stream sound and record your voice through the port. You can also use it to freely add external commentary while playing games. Note: Do not use a hub or USB extension cable, the USB port of the product must be connected to the USB 3.0 port of your computer for use
- 【HD 1080P 60fps Signal Loop-Out】The Hi-Speed USB 3.0 port of the capturadora de video para streaming provides 1080P60FPS video signal and excellent low-latency technology, allowing you to transmit live streams to Switch/Potplayer/VLC/Twitter/OBS more easily.The output port can provide up to 1080P60Hz output resolution, outputting a clean and clear image quality with no latency. image quality with no latency. Note: Maximum output is 1080P60Hz only
- 【Wide range of compatibility】This game capture card utilizes an advanced chip for compatibility with PC, PS5, PS4, X-box, Switch, DVD, DSLR, camcorder, webcam and more. Suitable for operating systems such as Windows, Linux and Ma-c OS. High-speed transmission without delay, record wonderful moments and enjoy good times. No need to install driver or external power supply, the device will automatically recognize as webcam when plugged in, detect the input and adjust the output automatically
- 【Our Service】After purchasing the switch capture card capturadora, you will receive: 1 x Capture Card, 1 x USB 3.0 Cable, 1 x User Manual. Service: 1. One year warranty service; 2. Professional technical assistance
YouTube’s livestream terms require creators to represent that they have the necessary rights to exploit live content on Google services, including music licensing rights. Check rights for every playlist item, including music and audiovisual material, before starting a long broadcast.
Troubleshoot common problems
- The crop does not change: Make sure the video source itself is selected in the preview, then try Alt-drag on Windows/Linux or Option-drag on macOS. You can also adjust the values under Edit menu → Transform → Edit Transform.
- The clip looks stretched or important content is missing: Reposition and resize the cropped source, and check the selected transform. Avoid Stretch to Screen when it distorts the image. If clips need different framing, give them separate sources or scenes rather than expecting one crop to adapt automatically.
- The playlist will not load: Confirm VLC is installed and matches OBS’s architecture, then check that the playlist files are available at their expected locations.
- The playlist order or repeat behavior is wrong: Review the VLC Video source’s file order, turn Shuffle Playlist off for sequential playback, and check Loop Playlist. For a single Media Source, check its Loop option.
- Playback stops after a scene change: Check the source’s visibility behavior. A source set to stop when not visible may stop when its scene is hidden.
- YouTube does not receive the intended format: Recheck the server URL, stream key, and output settings. With dual output, verify that each format is routed to its corresponding key and inspect the relevant Live Control Room preview.
- The YouTube archive is missing or incomplete: Streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured. Use a local recording backup and confirm the file is growing during the broadcast.
- The live stream is interrupted after a copyright warning: Stop or replace the identified material and resolve the rights issue. If the material is licensed, contact the rightsholder about allowlisting your channel; do not assume that a license prevents automated interruption.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want the YouTube channel to keep playing uploaded videos without leaving OBS or a computer running at home, StreamNeo is a cloud option. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo loops the uploaded videos from the cloud; it does not broadcast a camera feed.
- Nothing has to stay on at home for the stream to continue.
- Each slot streams the upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot without re-encoding or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery is included if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card, once per account.
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Each slot includes one always-on stream, 10 GB of storage per slot pooled across active slots, 24/7 looping and playlists, automatic recovery, and StreamNeo team support. The same product is included on every plan; only the billing length changes. Billing options are Daily $0.99 per day · Weekly $2.99 per week · Monthly $9.99 per month · 6 months $49.99 for 6 months · Yearly $89.99 a year. Plans can be cancelled any time. UPI and cards are available in India; card checkout is available worldwide. For five or more slots, contact support.
See StreamNeo or start the free first day at https://app.streamneo.com/register.
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