To loop a local video in OBS while sending YouTube a 4K/60 stream, add it as a Media Source, enable Loop, and set OBS’s base canvas and output resolution to 3840×2160 with the frame rate at 60 fps. Then choose a supported encoder and use YouTube’s recommended bitrate for that codec: 35 Mbps for AV1 or H.265, or 50 Mbps for H.264. The source itself, your computer’s encoding capacity, and a stable upload connection must all support the workload; OBS settings cannot restore detail or frames that are absent from the file.
1. Add the video file and make it loop
- In OBS, select or create the scene you want to use.
- In the Sources list, click + and choose Media Source.
- Name the source if prompted, select Local File, and browse to your video.
- Enable Loop, then confirm the source properties. OBS will replay the file after playback completes. See the OBS Media Sources guide.
If you need to loop a playlist rather than one file, OBS’s VLC Video source has a Loop Playlist property. VLC must be installed, and its architecture should match OBS—for example, 64-bit VLC with 64-bit OBS.
2. Set OBS to output 4K at 60 fps
- Open Settings → Video.
- Set Base (Canvas) Resolution to 3840×2160.
- Set Output (Scaled) Resolution to 3840×2160. The canvas is the area in which you arrange sources; the scaled output resolution determines the resolution OBS sends to the stream.
- Under Common FPS Values, select 60.
- Apply the changes and confirm that the video source fills the canvas as intended.
For a genuine 4K/60 result, the file should itself contain 3840×2160 video at 60 fps. Upscaling a smaller source or selecting 60 fps in OBS does not recreate original image detail or genuine frames. OBS’s overview guide explains the video and output settings.
3. Configure the YouTube stream encoder
YouTube’s live encoder guidance supports RTMP or RTMPS ingest and the H.264, H.265 (HEVC), and AV1 codecs. YouTube recommends RTMPS. Use constant bitrate (CBR), set the keyframe interval to two seconds, and do not exceed four seconds. The recommended bitrate depends on both codec and resolution/frame rate:
#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.
| OBS encoder codec | YouTube recommended bitrate for 2160p at 60 fps | YouTube minimum listed for 2160p at 60 fps |
|---|---|---|
| AV1 | 35 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| H.265 (HEVC) | 35 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| H.264 | 50 Mbps | 14 Mbps |
These figures are YouTube’s published live-ingest recommendations, accessed in 2026; they are not guarantees that every viewer will receive a 4K/60 playback rendition. YouTube transcodes live input into multiple output formats. Check the current YouTube live encoder settings before a high-stakes stream, since platform guidance can change.
In OBS, open Settings → Output and configure the selected streaming encoder’s bitrate and keyframe interval. Choose a codec that your installed OBS encoder and hardware can actually use; there is no universal computer specification that guarantees smooth 4K/60 encoding. Confirm the connection type and stream key in OBS’s stream settings using the values for your YouTube stream. Keep the key private: anyone who obtains it may be able to broadcast to your channel.
Rank #2
- Seamless Broadcasting and Versatile Streaming: Connect effortlessly to any app such as OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Restream, Zoom, Teams, and stream flawlessly on various platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Discord, Facebook Gaming, etc., providing you with unparalleled flexibility and reach.
- Next-gen capture: Unleash the full potential of your content with cutting-edge 4K resolution, delivering crystal-clear visuals at an impressive 144 frames per second.
- HDMI 2.1 in/out: Elevate your recording capabilities with HDMI 2.1 support, allowing you to document high frame rates up to 240fps in glorious 1080p resolution for an unparalleled viewing experience.
- VRR passthrough: Immerse yourself completely in the gaming experience as our Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) passthrough ensures flawlessly smooth gameplay, eliminating screen tearing for an uninterrupted visual feast.
- Ultra-low latency: Stay in the moment with ultra-low latency powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2, ensuring your broadcast and gameplay remain perfectly synchronized, delivering an immersive and responsive streaming experience.
4. Test the complete stream before relying on it
- Use a test clip with motion and audio similar to what you plan to loop. A static image alone may not reveal motion-related encoding or performance problems.
- Check that your upload connection can reliably sustain the selected stream bitrate. Allow headroom for normal connection variation and other network use; a speed-test peak does not prove the upload will remain stable throughout a broadcast.
- Start a test stream and inspect the preview and stream health in YouTube Live Control Room.
- Watch the OBS output and YouTube preview for dropped frames, stutter, audio problems, or signs of unstable ingest. YouTube advises testing in advance and monitoring quality; see its live streaming tips.
5. Troubleshoot softness, stutter, or failed ingest
The stream is not actually 4K
- Cause: OBS’s Output (Scaled) Resolution is lower than 3840×2160, even if the canvas or source is 4K.
- Fix: Check both resolution fields under Settings → Video; set the output as well as the canvas to 3840×2160.
The picture looks soft or motion is not smooth
- Cause: The file may be lower-resolution or lower-frame-rate than the output settings suggest.
- Fix: Check the source file’s actual resolution and frame rate. OBS can scale or repeat frames, but cannot restore missing detail or genuine motion frames.
YouTube reports poor stream health or the stream drops
- Cause: Upload capacity may not sustain the chosen bitrate, or the encoder configuration may not match YouTube’s ingest guidance.
- Fix: Recheck codec, CBR, keyframe interval, and bitrate against YouTube’s current settings. Test upload capacity and repeat the stream test; consider a lower output load if the connection cannot sustain the recommended rate.
OBS stutters or reports rendering or encoding strain
- Cause: Rendering or encoding 4K/60 can exceed the available system’s capacity. Hardware capability varies by workload, and the official guidance does not establish a universal minimum CPU or GPU.
- Fix: Follow OBS’s encoding performance troubleshooting steps. If the system still cannot sustain the stream, reduce output resolution or frame rate and test again. OBS’s overview guide also cautions that 60-fps streaming can be demanding.
Low-latency mode is unavailable at 4K
YouTube states that its low-latency option is unavailable for 2160p streams; YouTube sets them to normal latency. This is a YouTube stream setting limitation, not a loop-source problem.
6. Copyright and YouTube channel considerations
Looping a file in OBS only changes how the source plays; it does not grant permission to broadcast its music, footage, or other material. Use content you own or are authorized to stream, and review YouTube’s notices and stream status when testing. Repeatedly airing a recording also does not by itself establish eligibility for monetization: YouTube evaluates channels under its applicable monetization policies. Check current terms and rights for the specific material and channel rather than assuming that a technically successful loop is cleared or monetizable.
Rank #3
- Turn Your Camera into a Pro Webcam: Connect your DSLR or mirrorless camera to any computer and go live in stunning quality
- Stunning quality: Stream and record in 1080p60 or even 4K60 for razor-sharp detail (Requires a compatible camera and the latest Cam Link 4K model)
- Connect More Than Just Cameras: Use a camcorder, action cam, or even your iPhone to level up your content
- No Lag, No Delays: Ultra-low latency keeps your video and audio perfectly in sync, just like it should be
- Your iPad, Now a Pro Field Monitor: Preview your shots in real time on an iPad with USB-C
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want a YouTube channel to keep looping uploaded recordings without leaving OBS or a computer running at home, StreamNeo is a cloud option. Upload your video, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It keeps the stream running from the cloud, supports uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly service is $9.99 per month. Start the free first day at StreamNeo registration.
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.
