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To loop a prerecorded video on YouTube Live with OBS Studio 30, add the file as a Media Source, turn on Loop, configure YouTube’s stream URL and key, and set the encoder to match YouTube’s current recommendations for your codec, resolution, and frame rate. This keeps the video repeating while OBS and the computer remain running; OBS and YouTube’s setup guidance do not guarantee unattended 24/7 uptime.
What you need before configuring OBS
- OBS Studio 30 installed on a computer that can stay on and connected to the internet.
- A prerecorded video file supported by OBS Media Source. OBS lists MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF, and WebM video formats, among others. See the OBS Media Sources guide.
- A YouTube channel with live streaming enabled, plus a stream created or selected in YouTube Live Control Room.
- A stable upload connection and enough computer capacity to encode the selected quality continuously.
For documentaries, make sure you have the rights to stream the full video and its soundtrack. A successful technical setup does not grant permission to rebroadcast copyrighted material or determine whether a channel meets YouTube’s monetization policies.
Configure the looping video in OBS Studio 30
- Create a scene. In the OBS Scenes panel, add a scene for the broadcast and give it a recognizable name.
- Add the video. In Sources, select + and choose Media Source. Create a new source, then browse to and select the prerecorded file. OBS’s Media Source supports common video formats including MP4, TS, MOV, FLV, MKV, AVI, GIF, and WebM; supported audio formats include MP3, AAC, OGG, and WAV. The full list and source controls are in the official guide.
- Turn on Loop. In the Media Source properties, enable Loop. This makes the file start again after it finishes. For a single-file stream, this is the setting that produces the repeat. OBS also exposes controls such as restarting playback when the source becomes active, hardware decoding when available, and showing nothing when playback ends; choose these according to your scene and playback needs.
- Check the scene output. Confirm the video fits the canvas, the audio meters respond, and no unintended desktop, microphone, or other source is being sent. A short local preview can catch framing and audio problems before you start the live encoder.
Connect OBS to YouTube Live
- Open YouTube Live Control Room and create a stream or select the stream you intend to use. YouTube’s encoder setup instructions describe the workflow for obtaining the stream URL and stream key.
- In OBS, open Settings and select Stream. Choose the YouTube service and enter or connect the stream details as offered by your OBS version. If entering them manually, use the stream URL and key supplied by YouTube.
- Keep the stream key private. Anyone who can use it may be able to broadcast to the associated stream. Do not publish it, include it in a screenshot, or place it in a public document.
- Start streaming from OBS. For a scheduled broadcast, YouTube may show an encoder preview first; check the Live Control Room and use its Go live action when the preview is ready. Follow the status shown there rather than assuming that clicking Start Streaming alone has made the scheduled event public.
Set OBS output to match YouTube’s encoder guidance
YouTube’s current encoder guidance supports RTMP/RTMPS and lists H.264, H.265 (HEVC), and AV1. It recommends constant bitrate (CBR), frame rates up to 60 fps, and a two-second keyframe interval, with intervals no longer than four seconds. Use YouTube’s encoder settings and bitrate table for the exact codec, resolution, and frame-rate combination you choose.
Practical H.264 examples
| Output configuration | YouTube-recommended H.264 bitrate |
|---|---|
| 1080p at 30 fps | 5 Mbps |
| 1080p at 60 fps | 6 Mbps |
| 720p at 30 fps | 3 Mbps |
| 720p at 60 fps | 8 Mbps |
These figures are YouTube’s published recommendations, not a guarantee that your encoder or upload connection can sustain them. Notice that the recommended 720p60 value is higher than 1080p30; do not assume bitrate rises or falls based on resolution alone. For H.265 or AV1, consult YouTube’s table rather than reusing an H.264 target.
The Tool Desk
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#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
- 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.
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- 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.
OBS settings to check
- Output mode and encoder: In Settings > Output, select an encoder and configure a constant bitrate target appropriate to your selected codec and stream quality. Available encoders depend on the computer and installed hardware.
- Keyframe interval: Set it to 2 seconds; do not exceed four seconds, per YouTube’s recommendation.
- Video resolution and frame rate: In Settings > Video, select a canvas/output size and frame rate the computer can sustain. A 60-fps stream can demand more from a system than 30 fps, as OBS notes in its overview guide.
- Audio: Check that the chosen audio track is included in the stream and that dialogue or music is audible without clipping. Include representative audio in your test.
Test the stream before leaving it unattended
- Run a test using the same file, scene, resolution, frame rate, codec, and bitrate planned for the live broadcast.
- Watch the YouTube Live Control Room’s preview and stream-health indicators. Look for dropped frames, disconnects, missing audio, or an unexpected end to playback.
- Let the video finish once during testing and verify that Media Source begins it again. If it does not, re-open the source properties and confirm Loop is enabled.
- Check the computer and network under sustained load. A short successful test is useful for finding setup errors, but it does not prove that a local computer or connection will remain stable for days.
What a 24/7 broadcast does—and does not—guarantee
In this setup, OBS plays the local file and continuously encodes and sends the stream. The computer, OBS process, video storage, and upload connection therefore all need to remain available. YouTube’s documentation recommends testing and monitoring stream health, but neither the cited OBS nor YouTube setup pages promise 24/7 unattended uptime or prescribe a guaranteed recovery procedure.
YouTube states that streams under 12 hours are automatically archived. That statement does not establish what happens to a stream that runs longer than 12 hours or whether a multi-day broadcast will be preserved as one complete archive. Do not plan on a single complete recording of a 24/7 stream without confirming YouTube’s current archive behavior.
Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
- 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.)
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- 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.
Troubleshooting common OBS-to-YouTube problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| The video stops at the end | Loop is off, or the wrong Media Source is active. | Open the source properties, enable Loop, and verify that the scene being sent to YouTube contains that source. |
| YouTube does not receive the encoder feed | Incorrect stream URL or key, wrong stream selected, or encoder not started. | Recheck the stream details in YouTube Live Control Room and OBS Settings > Stream. Keep the key private. |
| Stream health reports unstable bitrate or dropped frames | The encoder or upload link may not sustain the selected configuration. | Check that bitrate matches YouTube’s table for the selected codec, resolution, and frame rate. Test a lower output configuration if the connection cannot sustain the target. |
| Video is live but there is no sound | The file may lack an expected audio track, or the active OBS audio track/mixer routing may be wrong. | Check the file in playback, watch OBS audio meters, and confirm the stream’s audio track is enabled. |
| The broadcast ends after a disconnect or computer interruption | A local setup depends on the computer, OBS, and network remaining operational; the cited setup documentation does not guarantee automatic recovery. | Check OBS and YouTube status, restore the connection, and restart the encoder or event as needed. Test any recovery process before relying on it. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If keeping OBS and a computer running around the clock is the part you want to avoid, StreamNeo is a YouTube-only cloud service for looping uploaded videos. Upload the recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it streams the upload as made, up to 4K at 60 fps, at one price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly is $9.99 per month. Start your free day on StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 5
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
- 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.
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- 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
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
- 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
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
- 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.
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