What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
To switch between pre-recorded videos during a YouTube Live stream, add each clip to its own OBS scene as a Media Source, then switch scenes while you are live. Use OBS Studio Mode to prepare the next clip before viewers see it, or use a VLC Video source when you want OBS to play a playlist without manually selecting each scene.
Choose how you want to play the videos
| Method | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Media Source in separate scenes | Selecting a particular clip or segment on cue | Media Source is built into OBS. Separate scenes let you choose which clip goes live, and you can switch to a scene with a hotkey. |
| VLC Video source | Playing a playlist from one OBS source | Requires VLC installed. You can configure playlist looping and shuffle, but playback follows the playlist rather than letting you cue any clip by selecting its scene. |
For a live documentary program where you need to decide what plays next, separate scenes are usually easier to control. For a set-and-play sequence, a VLC playlist may be more convenient.
Set up one scene per clip in OBS
- Create a scene: In OBS, use the Scenes panel to add a scene for the first clip. Give it a clear name, such as “Opening” or the clip’s title.
- Add the video: Select the scene, then use the Sources panel’s + button and choose Media Source. Name the source and select the local video file in its properties.
- Set playback behavior: In the Media Source properties, choose whether to loop the clip, restart playback when the source becomes active, use hardware decoding when supported, or hide the source when playback ends. Set these according to how you want that particular scene to behave.
- Repeat for each clip: Create another scene and Media Source for every video you want to select independently. Check the source properties in each scene; playback behavior is configured per source.
- Fit the video to the canvas: Check the OBS preview and adjust the source to fit your canvas. Confirm that the clip is framed as intended before you take it live.
OBS Media Source documents support for video formats including MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF, and WebM, and audio formats including MP3, AAC, OGG, and WAV. If a file does not play, first check that its format is supported and that the selected file path is correct. See the OBS Media Sources guide.
Switch clips during the broadcast
Switch directly from the Scenes panel
While live, select the scene for the clip you want to show. The active scene becomes the live output. Before switching, confirm that the intended scene is selected so you do not accidentally show a setup or holding scene.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
osee GoStream Deck HDMI Pro Live Streaming Multi Camera Video Mixer Switcher
- 【Rich Connection Ports】 The Osee GoStream Deck video switcher comes with 4 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs, allowing you to connect four different media sources and two displays for MultiView and monitoring. It also includes 2 Type-C ports (input/output) for webcam input/output, SSD connection, and PC connectivity, 1 Ethernet port for live streaming, 2 audio inputs and 1 headphone output for monitoring audio quality or recording, and 1 SD card slot for recording or playing files directly.
- 【Audio Control, Recording and Playback 】 The Osee GoStream Deck video switcher features various audio control buttons and adjustable knobs. It comes with headphone and microphone input for your live-streaming audio system. Additionally, it provides professional audio effects, including EQ, Limiter, Fader, etc. The GoStream Deck can record your PGM to an SD card or USB SSD while simultaneously playing back MP4 files for intros, breaks, etc.
- 【3 Streaming & Landscape / Portrait streaming】 This live streaming video switcher can simultaneously stream to 3 platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Zoom, or any RTMP server via the Ethernet port. Alternatively, you can use the USB output to stream through PC software like OBS or vMix. In addition, it supports both landscape and portrait modes to suit your various needs.
- 【Efficient Control】 The GoStream Deck features a hard control panel with PVW/PGM buses, T-Bar, and Macros - perfect for broadcast-quality streaming in education, conferences, worship, live events, and weddings. With its built-in menu system, you can control your live production without a PC. Additionally, we provide free PC control software and a companion control module for expanded functionality.
- 【Convenient Graphics Overlay】 This video mixer supports MultiSource functionality with dual video windows, background options, and graphics overlay - ideal for church broadcasts, podcasts, online meetings, panel discussions, and TV-quality live productions. Downstream keyer for logo and lower-third overlays. Upstream keyer supporting green screen, chroma key, PIP (Picture-in-Picture), and pattern effects.
Assign a hotkey to each scene
OBS supports hotkeys for switching to a specific scene. Assign a distinct keyboard shortcut to each clip scene in OBS’s hotkey settings, then use the relevant shortcut when you want to switch. A standard keyboard is enough; a programmable keypad is optional convenience, not a requirement. Review the OBS Sources Guide and OBS Studio Overview Guide.
Prepare the next clip with Studio Mode
Studio Mode shows the live scene separately from the scene you are preparing. Select the next clip in the preview area, check it, then use Transition or a configured Quick Transition to send it to the live output. OBS offers transitions including Fade and Cut, plus other built-in choices and adjustable durations; choose the effect and timing that suit your program.
Rank #2
Osee GoStream Duet Multiple Camera SDI and HDMI Live Stream Video Mixer Switcher
- Enriched inputs selection: unlimited inputs select from 4*SDI, 4*HDMI and USB-type C, NDI HX source and SD/SSD playback. Supports landscape and portrait for both inputs and outputs.
- Multiple control methods: control your live event via GoStream built-in GUI & GoStream computer software (both for MAC and Win) & Bitfocus Companion.
- Rich key effects and transitions: Multisource, Luam Key, Chroma Key, Pattern Key, PIP, DSK. Transition with MIX, DIP, WIPE and T-Bar.
- Highly compatible live streaming methods: Up to 3 streaming platforms at one time. Streaming directly via Ethernet or Smart Phone hotspot(via USB cable). Or you can connect to all streaming software, like OBS, Vmix to streaming.
- Affordable Professional Streaming Solution: A GoStream Duet equals a GoStream Deck + 4 HDMI & SDI converter + a FREE NDI HX LICENSE(need to download the latest firmware to unlock free NDI) as a gift.
Use a playlist instead of separate scenes
- Install VLC: OBS’s VLC Video source uses VLC libraries. Install the VLC version that matches your OBS architecture; 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC.
- Add the source: In the scene where you want the playlist, choose + in the Sources panel and add VLC Video. If the source is unavailable, check the VLC installation and architecture.
- Build the playlist: Add the video files you want to play to the source’s playlist. Configure looping or shuffle if needed.
- Choose visibility behavior: Set how playback should behave when the source is not visible, then test what happens when you hide and show it or switch scenes.
The VLC Video source is useful when the playlist should advance on its own. If you need to choose a specific next video in response to the program, separate scenes provide more direct operator control. OBS documents the source options in its Media Sources guide.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- Open YouTube Studio’s Live Control Room: Create or open the live stream and locate its stream URL and stream key.
- Enter the connection details in OBS: Open OBS stream settings and provide the stream URL and key shown by YouTube.
- Protect the key: YouTube describes stream keys as like the stream’s password and address. Do not show it on screen or include it in screenshots shared with others.
- Use YouTube’s encoder guidance: YouTube recommends RTMPS and publishes bitrate and resolution tables for encoder settings. Select a configuration for your intended output and available upload connection rather than relying on a generic bitrate number.
See YouTube’s instructions for managing live stream settings and creating a YouTube live stream with an encoder.
PerformanceWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadDriversCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?PerformancePC Slower Than It Used to Be?
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro HDMI Live Stream Switcher
- FEATURE RICH: Includes 4-camera multiview; cut, mix, dip, wipe, and DVE transitions; luma, linear, chroma, and pattern upstream keys; downstream keyer; and a built-in 6-input, 2-channel audio mixer.
- APPLICATIONS: Multicamera live streaming to the Internet or broadcast applications. Perfect for education & training, business presentations, livestream eSport events and more.
- INPUTS: 4 x HDMI Type A (10-bit 4:2:2 YUV), 2-channel embedded audio; 2 x 3.5mm stereo analog audio; 1 x RJ45 Ethernet.
- OUTPUTS: 1 x HDMI Type A (10-bit 4:2:2 YUV) with 2-channel embedded audio; multiview output; 1 x USB Type-C 3.1 Gen 1 (for webcam output, panel connection, and external drive recording).
- INCLUDES: ATEM Mini Pro HDMI live stream switcher and external 12V DC power supply with international socket adapters.
Test before viewers arrive
- Play representative clips and confirm that both picture and audio appear in the OBS preview.
- Test every scene change, hotkey, or playlist behavior you intend to use, including what happens when a clip ends.
- Check the Live Control Room preview and stream health before the event.
- During the broadcast, monitor audio and video quality and stream health. YouTube’s advice is direct: “Test before you start your live stream.”
Use YouTube’s encoder settings, bitrates, and resolutions guidance to choose settings for your selected output, and its live streaming tips for preparation and monitoring.
Troubleshoot common playback and switching problems
| Problem | What to check |
|---|---|
| A Media Source shows no video | Verify the selected file path and supported format, then check the source in the OBS preview. |
| A clip starts at the wrong point after switching back | Check the Media Source’s restart playback when source becomes active setting and set it to match the intended behavior. |
| A clip stops at the end | Enable looping if the clip should repeat, or plan to switch to another scene. Check whether hiding when playback ends is appropriate. |
| VLC Video is missing from the source menu | Install VLC and verify that its 32-bit or 64-bit architecture matches OBS; 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC. |
| The wrong clip appears after a hotkey press | Review the hotkey assignments and ensure each shortcut targets the intended scene. Test them before going live. |
| The next scene is shown before it is ready | Use Studio Mode to prepare and inspect the scene before transitioning it to the live output. |
| YouTube does not receive the OBS stream | Check that OBS has the stream URL and key from the intended Live Control Room stream, then inspect YouTube’s preview and stream health. |
| Audio or video quality is poor | Check the OBS output configuration against YouTube’s bitrate and resolution guidance, verify the upload connection, and test with representative media. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want uploaded videos to play continuously on a YouTube channel without leaving OBS or a computer running at home, StreamNeo is a cloud option. Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It keeps the stream running from the cloud, supports uploaded video 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 pricing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo plays uploaded videos; it does not go live from a camera.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 3
Best Value
Mixer Plus Compact Video Switcher 4 HDMI with 4''Built-in Screen, Portable Live Streaming Switcher for Multi-Camera, Online Class, Event, YouTube, OBS, Zoom
- Ultra-Compact &Build in Screen: Mixer Plus combines a professional 4-channel HDMI video switcher with a built-in 4inch display, delivering real-time Multi View monitoring in a portable form factor ideal for live streaming and on-the-go production.
- Seamless Multi-Camera Switching: Supports up to 4 HDMI inputs with zero-latency switching, 30 customizable transition effects (Mix, DIP, etc.), and 4 user-defined scene presets, ensuring smooth and professional broadcast-quality results
- Advanced Broadcast Tools: Offers PTZ camera control via VISCA over IP (up to 4 cameras, 4 presets each), along with chroma key, luma key, PIP, DSK, and logo overlay, giving users the flexibility to create professional and engaging live productions.
- Customizable AUX HDMI Output:Mixer Plus features a versatile AUX HDMI output that allows users to customize the output signal from multiple options, including IN1, IN2, IN3, IN4, PGM, Clean PGM, PVW, Clean PVW, PAT, and Multi View—offering maximum flexibility for different production needs.
- Multi View (MV) Monitoring:The Multi View (MV) feature allows users to monitor all input sources simultaneously on a single display. It provides real-time previews of each video input along with dedicated Program (PGM) and Preview (PVW) windows, resolution indicators, and audio level meters. This enables precise signal monitoring and seamless switching during live production. Ideal for multi-camera setups, the MV mode enhances operational efficiency and ensures professional broadcast quality.
Rank #4
RGBlink Mini V3 Video Switcher with Customizable Features via TAO Cloud – 4K HDMI Switcher, 2.1" Touch Screen, Multi-Cam Live Streaming, Dual HDMI Output, Recording & PTZ Control
- Flexible TAO Cloud Activation – Unlock premium functions via monthly or lifetime plans (not exceeding $100 total lifetime cost). Choose and pay only for the features you need, including PTZ control, Record and Chroma key, logo overlay .
- Step for ACTIVATION – Upgrade your Mini V3 to the LASTEST FRIMWARE before use. Connect the device to the internet with a Ethernet network cable. On the menu of Mini V3, go to Settings → IP Setting, enable DHCP, and wait for the device to receive an IP address. Then go to Settings → TAO Cloud, follow on‑screen instructions to get a verification code, log in to your TAO Cloud account, and bind the Mini V3. For full details, see the USER MANUAL.
- Compact 4K Video Switcher – Mini V3 features 4× HDMI inputs, 2 x1080P HDMI output, a 2.1" touch screen, and professional T-bar control, making it the ideal video switcher for live streaming and multi-cam productions.
- Dual HDMI Output & UVC Webcam Mode – Stream with dual HDMI outputs for program and preview, or connect via UVC for instant webcam recognition on YouTube, Facebook, and other platforms. Perfect as an HDMI switcher and 4K switcher. NOTE: For stable UVC streaming with OBS on Mac or PC, use the included USB 3.0 cable.
- HD Recording & Creative Effects – Record directly to USB drives up to 2TB, add PIP layouts, chroma key overlays, and 15 transition effects. Recording and selected advanced features are activated via optional TAO Cloud licensing. A versatile video switcher with touch screen 2.1" for entry-level content creation.
Start your free StreamNeo day.
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.
