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You can change the video in a YouTube live loop without ending the broadcast: keep the YouTube live event and encoder output running, and change the media or active scene in the encoder. In OBS Studio, use a looping Media Source for one file or a VLC Video source for a playlist. Don’t click End Stream just to switch videos.
What changes—and what stays live
Your encoder sends an audio/video feed to YouTube using the stream URL and stream key. YouTube receives that feed; the encoder determines which video is in it. In OBS, scenes and sources define the content sent to the output. Switching media or scenes is therefore different from ending the YouTube event.
In this guide, a playlist means a local media list in OBS, not a playlist on your YouTube channel. YouTube’s encoder instructions treat ending the event as a separate action: to end the stream, click End Stream and stop sending content from the encoder (YouTube Help: Create a YouTube live stream with an encoder).
Choose an OBS source for your videos
One video file: Media Source
Add an OBS Media Source, select the local file, and turn on Loop if it should replay when it finishes. OBS lists supported common formats including MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF, and WebM. The source also has a Restart playback when source becomes active control (OBS Project: Media Sources).
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#1 Best Overall
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
Several files: VLC Video
Use an OBS VLC Video source to make a playlist from multiple files. Loop Playlist is on by default; Shuffle Playlist is off by default, so the list plays in order unless you enable shuffle. VLC must be installed for this source type to appear. If you use 64-bit OBS, OBS notes that you need 64-bit VLC (OBS Project: Media Sources).
| Need | OBS source | Useful controls or requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Repeat one local file | Media Source | Enable Loop; check inactive-source behavior if switching away and back. |
| Play several files in a list | VLC Video | VLC must be installed; choose whether to loop or shuffle the playlist. |
Change the video while the stream is live
- Connect the encoder in YouTube Studio. Open Live Control Room and configure the encoder connection with the stream URL and stream key. Keep the stream key private.
- Prepare your OBS media. Add a looping Media Source for a single video, or a VLC Video source for a playlist. Place the source in the scene you intend to send to YouTube.
- Start the encoder output. In YouTube’s documented workflow, wait for the Live Control Room preview, then click Go live (YouTube Help: Create a YouTube live stream with an encoder).
- Switch the content, not the broadcast. While OBS continues streaming and the YouTube event remains live, change the media selection or switch to another prepared scene. OBS Studio’s overview guide describes scenes and sources as the layout and media or devices used in the output; Studio Mode lets you prepare a scene in preview before transitioning it to the live output.
- End only when you mean to end. When the broadcast is over, use YouTube’s End Stream control and stop sending encoder content. Don’t use either action for an ordinary video change.
Prevent a blank or awkward transition
OBS does not promise gap-free switching for every file and setup. Rehearse with the actual media before relying on a change during a public broadcast.
Rank #2
Audio Express AXHDCAP 4K HDMI Video Capture Card, Cam Link Card Game Audio Adapter HDMI to USB 2.0 Record Capture Device for Streaming, Live Broadcasting, Video Conference, Teaching, Gaming
- [Enhanced 4K-1080P Video Capture Experience] Capture the Magic: Elevate your video recordings to new heights with our upgraded anti-static 1080P Video Capture Card. Immerse yourself in stunning visuals, supporting HDMI input at 4K 60FPS and USB output for capturing in 1080P, complete with rich stereo sound. Enjoy crystal-clear video recordings, dynamic gaming live streams, and professional conference broadcasts. Note: HDMI resolution: Max input can be 3840×2160@30Hz / Video output resolution: Max output can be 1920×1080@30Hz
- [Seamless Real-Time Preview] Stay in the Moment: Our advanced ultra-low latency technology ensures seamless real-time transmission of video streams. Experience instant, lag-free previews, allowing you to capture every detail precisely. Effortlessly record video directly to your hard disk, all without compromising on quality or introducing any delays.
- [Versatility and Broad Compatibility] Your Creative Hub: Connect your DSLR, camcorder, or action camera to a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux. Unlock a world of possibilities with real-time streaming to popular platforms like Twitch, Youtube, OBS, Zoom, Potplayer, and VLC, giving you the tools to share your content effortlessly.
- [Effortless Plug and Play] Simplicity Redefined: Say goodbye to complex installations. Our plug-and-play design eliminates the need for drivers or external power supplies. Seamlessly integrate high-definition acquisition into various scenarios, whether it's educational recordings, immersive gaming, precise medical imaging, captivating live streams, or professional broadcasting.
- [Seize Every Detail with Precision] Unleash your creativity and attention to detail with our video capture card. Capture every nuance, every color, and every moment with precision, thanks to the enhanced capabilities of our technology. Whether you're a content creator, a gamer, or a professional, our capture card empowers you to seize the finest elements and bring them to life in your recordings and live streams.
- Check inactive-source behavior. OBS notes that a Media Source configured with Close file when inactive can take a short time to reload when shown again. That reload may briefly leave no media visible. Check the setting and test switching away and back (OBS Project: Media Sources).
- Prepare scenes ahead of time. Give scenes clear names and confirm that the intended source is included. Studio Mode can help you inspect the next scene in preview before sending it live.
- Verify playlist behavior. Check file order, loop and shuffle settings, playback, and audio before going live. A playlist in OBS is not a scheduled YouTube playlist editor.
- Test the full sequence. OBS’s Quick Start Guide recommends testing settings before streaming. Check the transition with the files and setup you will actually use; the cited guides do not guarantee uninterrupted playback.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep uploaded videos playing on a YouTube channel without leaving OBS or a computer running, StreamNeo is a cloud alternative. Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo loops uploaded videos from the cloud; it does not stream from a camera.
- Nothing has to stay on at home once the stream is running.
- One flat price per slot covers any uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps, as made, with no re-encoding or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card; one free day is available per account.
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
For a YouTube-only, prerecorded loop, start your free StreamNeo day.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
Capture Card, USB Video Capture Card Device, Audio Video Converter Grabber for RCA to USB-Convert VHS Mini DV VCR Hi8 DVD to Digital, for PC TV Tape Player Camcorder, MAC Windows Vista Compatible
- AV TO USB Converter: Capture videos and audios from VHS, VCR, Hi8, DV tapes to a PC, with the help of our USB Video Converter. Save room while digitizing your favorite old memories
- Quality Capture Card: Our USB Video Capture Card converting anolog RCA composite input into HD 720P USB output and capturing audio without any sound card. Advanced signal processing technology provides you with great precision, colors, resolutions, and details.
- Plug and Play: Automatically install the driver once you hook up this RCA to USB Converter to a PC. No external power is needed. User-friendly and easy to operate
- Wide Compatibility: The Video Capture Card can work with video devices with RCA connector or S-Video connector, such as VHS, VCR, Hi8, camcorder, compatible with Windows and Mac OS. Support video formats like NTSC, PAL, and support brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation control
- Note: The Video Converter is used with acquisition software. We recommend OBS Studio or PotPlayer for Windows, and QuickTime Player for Mac. They can be downloaded for free online. Please operate according to the steps in User Manual or contact us if you have any questions
Rank #4
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.
Rank #3
Video Capture Card, 4K USB3.0 HDMI to USB C, 1080P60FPS HDMI Capture Card for Streaming, Gaming, Video Recording Compatible with Switch, Xbox, PS4/5, OBS,iPad Mac OS Windows,Camera, Zoom(Silver)
- 【4K HDMI Input, 2K@30Hz Recording】Powered by a true USB 3.0 high-speed interface, the capture card supports up to 4K@30Hz HDMI input and records at 2K@30Hz or 1080P@60Hz. Perfect for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need crisp, smooth video for live streaming, gameplay recording, or online meetings.
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】Built with a premium aluminum alloy shell and advanced chipset for stable heat dissipation, ensuring ultra-low latency transmission. Capture high-quality video and dual-channel audio in real time—no lag, no frame drop—ideal for Twitch, YouTube, or OBS streaming.
- 【Easy Plug and Play, Compact & Portable】No driver or external power required—just plug and play via USB 3.0 or Type-C connection to your Windows or macOS computer. Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for outdoor streaming, live shows, or mobile recording setups.
- 【Wide Compatibility & Multi-Device Support】Compatible with Windows 7 8 10 11, macOS, Linux,Android and supports most popular software such as OBS, Zoom, VLC, Twitch Studio, and more. Works seamlessly with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, DSLR cameras, TV boxes, and other HDMI-output devices for streaming to YouTube, Twitch, etc.
- 【What You Get】Includes: HDMI Capture Card, USB 3.0 to USB-C Adapter, User Manual. Tips: Make sure your tablet’s OTG function is enabled before connecting. Test your HDMI device with a monitor first to confirm video and audio output, then connect to the Video Capture Card for recording.
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