If you replace a video but keep its filename and location, its OBS playlist entry still points to that path. However, OBS’s documentation does not promise that a VLC Video source will automatically reopen a file replaced outside OBS. Reload or recreate the source, then check playback in the OBS preview before going live. For a folder that changes often, use a folder-aware plugin or script whose refresh method and source requirements match your setup.
What happens when you replace a playlist video?
An OBS playlist entry identifies a media file by its path. Replacing the file at the same path and with the same filename preserves that entry, but it does not guarantee the source will immediately read the replacement. OBS documents playlist support, not automatic reloading after an external file change. Treat reloading the source as a practical step, not a guaranteed hot-reload feature. OBS media sources documentation.
If the replacement has a different name or location, update the playlist entry to point to the new file. A playlist cannot follow a file that has moved simply because it remains in the same folder.
Refresh an existing VLC Video playlist
- Replace the video. When possible, use the same filename and folder as the original. If the path changes, note the new path.
- Reload the source. In OBS, select the VLC Video source and reopen or recreate it so it can reopen the media. The exact refresh behavior after an external replacement is not specified in OBS’s documentation.
- Update changed paths. If the file moved or was renamed, edit the playlist entry to use its new path.
- Check the preview. Confirm the replacement plays and the playlist continues as intended before starting a live session.
- Check VLC installation and bitness. VLC Video relies on VLC libraries. OBS specifies 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS; confirm the matching installation if the source does not work.
OBS’s built-in VLC Video source supports playlists, with loop enabled by default and shuffle disabled by default. The official guide does not describe a continuous folder watcher. A regular playlist and a directory that automatically tracks additions or replacements are therefore different needs.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →#1 Best Overall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.
Choose a refresh method for a changing folder
Manual refresh with Media Playlist Source
Media Playlist Source supports file and folder entries. Its resource page says folder contents refresh when a setting changes and gives saving the settings again as a temporary manual refresh method; automatic refreshing is not implemented in the described version. Version 0.1.0 and later require OBS 31 according to the resource listing. Version 0.1.3 is dated 2025-04-13. Check the current requirements and installation directions on the Media Playlist Source resource page before installing.
Event-driven updates with PlayFolder
PlayFolder 1.3 describes scanning a selected folder and dynamically updating a playlist on OBS events. Its instructions specify an OBS Media Source, not a VLC Video source, and say not to enable OBS’s internal looping because the script manages playback. These are the author’s listed features, not independent confirmation that the script will work in every setup. The resource lists an update date of 2026-09-24. See the PlayFolder resource page for its current instructions and requirements.
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.
Other Windows option: NowPlaylisting
The NowPlaylisting resource describes a Windows plugin for OBS 30 and later, with file and folder entries and editable playlists. The available description does not establish that it automatically refreshes folder contents. Check its current documentation before relying on that behavior: NowPlaylisting resource page.
Compare the options against your setup
| Approach | Refresh model | Source or compatibility notes |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in VLC Video | Reload or recreate the source after replacing media; no continuous folder watcher is documented. | Playlist source; 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC, according to OBS documentation. |
| Media Playlist Source | Save settings again to refresh folder entries; automatic refresh is not implemented in the described version. | Folder entries supported. The resource listing says OBS 31 is required for versions 0.1.0 and later. |
| PlayFolder 1.3 | Claims event-driven dynamic folder scanning. | Requires an OBS Media Source, not VLC Video; its instructions say to leave OBS internal looping off. |
| NowPlaylisting | Refresh behavior for folder contents is not stated in the available resource description. | Resource describes Windows and OBS 30+; check current requirements. |
Before committing to a method, check that the source type matches the tool, that your OBS version and operating system meet the current requirements, and that the folder paths and file replacement timing work in your scene. Test in preview; do not assume a plugin or script has been verified in your particular setup.
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.
Troubleshoot a playlist that does not update
- The old video still plays: OBS may not have reopened the replaced file. Reload or recreate the source, then check the preview.
- The replacement is missing: Confirm the filename and path match the playlist entry, or edit the entry to the replacement’s actual path.
- The VLC Video source fails: Confirm VLC is installed and its bitness matches OBS. OBS specifies 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS.
- A folder plugin does not show new files: Use the refresh method its current documentation supports. For Media Playlist Source, the described manual workaround is to save settings again; automatic refresh is not implemented in that version.
- PlayFolder does not behave as expected: Confirm it is attached to an OBS Media Source and that OBS internal looping is off, as its instructions require.
- A plugin will not install or load: Recheck its current OBS-version and platform requirements before troubleshooting the playlist itself.
Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep a YouTube channel live with uploaded videos, StreamNeo is a separate option from maintaining an OBS playlist: upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It loops from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. Videos stream as uploaded, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; if YouTube drops the stream, StreamNeo automatically recovers. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo is for YouTube, not camera-based broadcasts. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start the free first 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
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.
