Recommended Free Tools
To show recent activity on a YouTube livestream, add an Events List overlay for a persistent list of recent events, or an Alerts overlay for pop-up notifications as events happen. In OBS, add the overlay provider’s URL to a Browser Source in the scene where you want it. OBS does not provide alerts itself, and its documented method does not require plugins.
Choose between an Events List and Alerts
These overlays serve different purposes. An Events List keeps recent activity visible together on screen; Alerts display individual notifications as activity happens. Decide which behavior suits your layout before creating the overlay. OBS explains the distinction in its Stream Layout Tutorial 2: Alerts & Chat Box.
- Choose an Events List when viewers should be able to glance at a continuing record of recent activity.
- Choose Alerts when you want a notification to appear for an event as it happens.
Add an overlay to OBS
- Create or select the overlay. Use your overlay provider’s editor to choose the widget and appearance you want. For StreamElements, the Elements Editor supports configuring alerts, including event-specific text, graphics, and sound; see Creating Alerts in the Elements Editor.
- Copy the overlay URL. The provider supplies a URL for the overlay. Keep it available for the OBS scene configuration.
- Open the intended OBS scene and add a Browser Source. Paste the overlay URL into the source’s URL field, then set its width and height to fit the area you want it to occupy. OBS’s stream-alerts FAQ describes using a third-party Browser Source for alerts. Its tutorial notes that plugins are not required.
- Arrange the source in the scene. Position and size it so that the list or pop-ups are visible without obscuring important documentary footage, captions, or other on-screen information.
Set up a YouTube overlay with StreamElements
StreamElements documents a YouTube setup using a YouTube theme and a browser-source overlay. Follow its SE.Live Tutorial for YouTube for the account connection and theme flow; the guide is dated May 8, 2025.
- Connect the YouTube account in StreamElements.
- Select a YouTube theme and configure the AlertBox or other relevant overlay widget in the editor.
- For the theme’s alert settings, retain Super Chat among the enabled options, as the guide instructs.
- Copy the resulting overlay URL and add it to the relevant OBS scene as a Browser Source, with dimensions suited to the layout.
If you are building a custom display rather than using a preset, StreamElements’ Widget Events documentation describes event callbacks and data that include recent-event information. The cited documentation does not establish a complete, current list of every YouTube event supported across providers, so check the selected widget’s own settings for the event types it offers.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Check the overlay and troubleshoot common problems
Review the composed OBS scene to confirm the overlay is placed and sized as intended. If it does not appear or alerts are silent, use the checks in StreamElements’ Overlays Troubleshooting guide, dated April 2, 2025.
- Overlay is missing: confirm the Browser Source contains the correct overlay URL, then check its width and height.
- Alerts are silent or do not appear: check whether alerts have been muted or paused.
- The wrong behavior is showing: verify whether the selected widget is an Events List or an Alerts widget; one presents recent events together, while the other produces individual notifications.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the livestream is made from uploaded video rather than a live camera, StreamNeo can keep a YouTube channel live from the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. An OBS Browser Source overlay is for displaying activity in an OBS scene; StreamNeo is a separate option for keeping uploaded video streaming without leaving a home computer on.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Nothing has to stay running at home.
- Uploaded video streams at its original quality up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot.
- StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free, with no card required.
Monthly: $9.99 per month. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start the free day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
