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Yes. OBS can play a local prerecorded video and send it to YouTube Live as an encoded 1440p stream. You are streaming the video through OBS—not uploading a finished file directly into a live event. Set OBS’s output resolution, encoder settings and YouTube stream key, then test the broadcast in YouTube Live Control Room before relying on it.
What “1440p live” means
The video file is a source in an OBS scene. OBS encodes the scene into a live feed, which YouTube receives through an encoder connection. A 1440p source file does not, by itself, make the live output 1440p: the outgoing resolution is controlled separately in OBS. YouTube’s current encoder guidance includes 1440p at 30 and 60 fps as supported incoming resolutions. YouTube explains the encoder and stream-key workflow; OBS distinguishes canvas size from output resolution.
Set up a prerecorded video as a YouTube Live stream
- Create a scene and add the file. In OBS, select or create a scene, select Sources → + → Media Source, give the source a name, and choose the local video file. OBS documents support for formats including MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF and WebM. In the Media Source properties, enable Loop if the video should repeat. Restart playback when source becomes active controls whether playback starts from the beginning when the source becomes active. See the OBS Media Sources guide.
- Set the outgoing resolution and frame rate. Open Settings → Video. Set Output (Scaled) Resolution to 2560×1440 for 1440p, then choose the frame rate you intend to stream. Base (Canvas) Resolution is the workspace where OBS arranges sources; it is not the same setting as the stream’s output resolution. Changing the canvas can require resizing or repositioning sources. Confirm the output setting before going live. Details are in the OBS Studio Overview Guide.
- Connect OBS to YouTube. In YouTube Live Control Room, create or select a live stream and copy its stream key. In OBS, open Settings → Stream, select YouTube as the service, and enter or connect the stream key using the available connection method. The key directs the encoder feed to your YouTube stream; treat it as private. YouTube’s encoder setup instructions describe this workflow.
- Configure encoder output. YouTube recommends RTMPS, CBR bitrate encoding and a keyframe interval of two seconds (not exceeding four). Choose a supported codec—H.264, H.265/HEVC or AV1—and use the bitrate guidance below for that codec and frame rate. Encoder options available to you depend on your OBS installation and hardware; do not combine bitrate recommendations from different codec columns.
- Run a test before the intended broadcast. Start the OBS stream and check the YouTube Live Control Room preview and stream health. Confirm that the image is 1440p, audio is present if needed, motion is smooth, and the video starts and repeats or ends as you intend. YouTube recommends testing and monitoring the feed.
YouTube’s published 1440p encoder settings
The following are YouTube’s current published recommendations, accessed in 2026. Recommended bitrates and listed minimums are guidance for the incoming encoder feed, not a guarantee that a given computer or connection can sustain it. Use the figures for the codec you have selected.
| Incoming format | H.264 recommended | AV1 or H.265 recommended | Listed minimum: H.264 | Listed minimum: AV1/H.265 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1440p at 30 fps | 21 Mbps | 15 Mbps | 7 Mbps | 5 Mbps |
| 1440p at 60 fps | 34 Mbps | 24 Mbps | 8 Mbps | 6 Mbps |
YouTube lists frame rates up to 60 fps and recommends a two-second keyframe frequency, not exceeding four seconds. Its live encoder settings guidance is the reference for supported resolutions, codecs, protocols and bitrates. YouTube also transcodes incoming live video into different formats for viewers on different devices and connections, so an incoming 1440p feed does not mean every viewer will receive 1440p playback.
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#1 Best Overall
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Elgato 4K S Capture Card for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 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 1440p30 or 1440p60
| Output | When it may suit the video | Practical consideration |
|---|---|---|
| 1440p30 | Documentary footage or other material whose motion does not need 60 fps. | Lower frame rate generally places less demand on encoding than 60 fps; use the matching YouTube bitrate for your codec. |
| 1440p60 | Material where smoother motion at 60 fps is important. | OBS cautions that 60-fps streaming can be taxing compared with 30 fps. Test the computer under load and use the higher bitrate guidance for the selected codec. |
OBS does not publish a minimum computer specification for this exact prerecorded-file-at-1440p setup. Whether a particular system can produce a stable stream depends on its rendering and encoding capacity as well as the connection. If OBS reports encoding or rendering trouble, use its encoding performance troubleshooting guide; reducing output resolution or frame rate can reduce load.
Playback details that can affect a long broadcast
- Looping: Media Source’s Loop option is off by default. Turn it on if the file should repeat; otherwise playback ends when the file finishes.
- Restart behavior: Use Restart playback when source becomes active if you want playback to begin at the start whenever the source becomes active.
- Playlist playback: OBS’s VLC Video source can play a playlist and offers a Loop Playlist setting. It requires VLC to be installed. The OBS guide covers these source options.
- Check the actual feed: Source resolution, canvas resolution and output resolution are distinct. Inspect the YouTube preview and stream health rather than assuming the file’s properties determine what viewers receive.
Copyright and YouTube channel rules
Using a prerecorded file does not grant permission to broadcast its contents. Before streaming, make sure you have the rights or permissions needed for the video, music, images and other material, and review YouTube’s current policies for live streams and monetization. A stream that is technically accepted at 1440p may still be subject to copyright claims or channel-policy decisions; resolution and encoder settings do not establish a right to use the content.
Rank #2
Guermok Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P 60FPS & 2K 30FPS
- 【1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card】 This HDMI game capture card is based on USB3.0 high speed transmission port, input resolution up to 4K@30HZ, output resolution up to 2K@30Hz or 1920×1080@60Hz. Type c and USB interface can meet most of the devices in daily life. Easily meet the online capture, real-time recording, online meetings, live gaming and other functions, so you have a better visual enjoyment. Note: For capture use only; requires capture software to function and is not intended for direct screen casting to a monitor or TV
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】 HDMI capture card is made of good quality aluminum alloy with strong heat dissipation, allowing you to enjoy ultra low latency while live gaming or video recording or live streaming, avoiding blue screens and lag. This HDMI to USBC capture card supports easy recording of good quality audio or HD video and transferring it to your computer or streaming platform, allowing you to record 60 fps HD video directly on your hard drive and real-time preview
- 【Plug and Play, Easy to Carry】 This HDMI 1080P video capture card does not require any additional drivers or external power supply, just plug and play for fast capture. The capture card is small and lightweight, so you can put it in your bag for emergencies, making it very portable for outdoor live streaming. It's also a great way to share content in game recording, video conference, video recorder and online teaching
- 【Wide Compatibility USB Capture Card】 Easily streams to Facebook, Youtube or Twitch. With the connection, this HDMI to USB C/3.0 video capture devices can be working on several Operating Systems and various software: Windows 7/ 8/ 10, Mac OS or above, Linux, Android, Laptop, Xbox One, PS3/PS4/PS5, Camera, DVDs, Set Top Box, Webcame, DSLR, Switch/Switch 2, TV BOX, HDTV, Potplayer/VLC, ZOOM, OBS Studio etc.
- 【Package Content & Note】 1x HD Audio Capture Card , 1x USB 3.0 to USB C Adapter (A-side 3.0, B-side 2.0), 1x user manual. Please note that you need to restart the OBS Studio software after the audio setup is complete, otherwise it will result in no sound output. When using an adapter, if the device is recognized as USB 2.0, try using the other side with the USB-C port. Simply flip the capture card and reconnect it to be recognized as USB 3.0
Troubleshooting common problems
- YouTube receives a lower resolution than expected: Check Settings → Video → Output (Scaled) Resolution in OBS. The source file’s resolution and Base (Canvas) Resolution do not set the outgoing resolution on their own.
- The video does not repeat: Open the Media Source properties and enable Loop. If you are using a VLC Video source, check Loop Playlist instead.
- The stream is choppy or OBS reports overload: Check OBS’s rendering or encoding status and test system capacity. Reduce output resolution or frame rate if needed; OBS notes that 60 fps can be more demanding than 30 fps.
- The stream will not connect to the intended event: Confirm that OBS is using the correct YouTube stream key and that the selected live event is the one you intend to broadcast. Keep the key private.
- The preview is missing audio or starts at the wrong point: Check the scene’s audio sources and the Media Source’s playback settings. Test the full start, playback and loop/end behavior before the scheduled broadcast.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep prerecorded videos live on YouTube without leaving a computer running, StreamNeo runs the stream from the cloud: upload the video, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; each slot streams the file as uploaded at any quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start your free StreamNeo day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
UGREEN 2K@30Hz 1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card 4K Input HDMI to USB 3.0
- 2K 30FPS & 1080p 60FPS HDMI Capture Card: The 4K@30Hz input and 2K@30Hz output resolutions offer dual benefits. The high input resolution preserves original video quality for post-production editing, while the 2K output provides an optimal balance between clarity and compatibility. At the same time, this HDMI to USB-C capture card is also backward compatible with 1080p 60FPS, to fulfill a variety of daily needs. Note: Ensure your HDMI source device and the capture device support 2K resolution
- Low Latency 5 Gbps High Data Transfer Speed: With high-speed USB 3.0 technology for optimal performance and low delay, you can easily stream video from the Switch/Switch 2/PS4/PS5 to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, OBS, Potplayer, and VLC on a computer. It's also backward compatible with USB 2.0. Note: This capture card for streaming only supports HDMI input sources, as well as iPadOS devices need to be updated to 17 or higher to use it
- USB A and USB C ports: Featuring both USB-A and USB-C interfaces, this streaming capture card ensures broad compatibility with modern devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, desktops, and Quest 3. Perfect for multi-scenario streaming—whether you're broadcasting camera footage, mobile gaming, or PC live streams. Note: This capture card only supports unidirectional signal flow—HDMI input to USB output
- Universal Compatibility: This Driver-Free HDMI capture card for streaming supports Windows 11/10/8.1/7, MacOS, Linux, and phones/tablets. This capture card effortlessly livestreams gameplay from Switch, Switch 2, PS4/PS4 Pro/PS5 (Disable HDCP mode), Xbox Series X, and Meta Quest 3/2 directly to your iPad, laptop, or PC. Fully support OBS Studio, XSplit, PotPlayer, QuickTime Player, and more for streaming, recording, editing, and high-res video transfer. Note: iPadOS 17 or later is required for USB-C iPad compatibility. Switch / Xbox / PS5/ PS4 work fine when HDCP is turned off
- Durable USB Capture Card: The aluminum alloy casing easily dissipates heat and is lightweight while effectively shielding against EMI, ensuring stable signal transmission. The built-in cable features 26AWG (2C) + 30AWG (1P) tinned copper conductors, ensuring excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance, enhancing durability, and reducing signal loss
Rank #4
NearStream CCD10 HDMI Capture Card for PS5, PS4, Xbox, Switch, DSLR Camera
- 【4K60Hz, 1440P@120HZ & 1080P@240HZ PASSTHROUGH】: Supports HDMI input and loop-out at 4K60Hz, 1440P@120Hz, or 1080p@240Hz for smooth, high-frame-rate gameplay on your monitor or TV while streaming or recording at the same time.
- 【1080P60 VIDEO CAPTURE WITH LOW-LATENCY PERFORMANCE】: Captures video up to 1080p at 60fps through USB-C 3.0, delivering smooth, stable, and low-latency performance for live streaming, gameplay recording, video capture, and content creation.
- 【PLUG AND PLAY ON WINDOWS, MAC, AND LINUX】: Works with Windows, macOS, and Linux for quick setup with compatible apps and devices, making it easy to start streaming, recording, or broadcasting right away.
- 【Dual 3.5mm Audio Ports】: Use the 3-pole TRS mic input for an external mic or the 4-pole TRRS headset jack for headset mic input and headphone output. When both ports are connected, the headset jack provides headphone output only.
- 【COMPATIBLE WITH CONSOLES, CAMERAS, AND PCS】: Works with PS5, PS4, Xbox, Switch, cameras, DSLRs, and computers. Package includes the CCD10 capture card, HDMI cable, USB cable, user manual, and quick start guide.
Rank #3
Capture Card, 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Game Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS Video Capture Device, HDMI to USB 3.0 Capture Card for Streaming, Work with Camera/Xbox/PS4/PS5/PC/OBS
- 【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.
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