What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Use FFmpeg’s concat demuxer to read your videos in order, then apply -stream_loop -1 to repeat the playlist indefinitely and send the output to the stream URL and key shown in YouTube Live Control Room. The playlist files need compatible streams; test the feed in YouTube’s preview before relying on it.
What you need before you start
- A Linux server with FFmpeg installed and enough CPU and network capacity for your chosen output settings.
- Video files readable by the Linux account that runs FFmpeg, plus a text playlist listing them in order.
- A YouTube channel able to create an encoder stream in Live Control Room, where you can copy its stream URL and stream key.
- Rights to retransmit every video and audio asset in the playlist.
These steps describe a general FFmpeg workflow; no particular Linux distribution or FFmpeg build has been tested here. YouTube and FFmpeg documentation reviewed on October 3, 2026, may change, so use the current values and prompts shown for your stream.
Prepare a compatible playlist
Create a text file such as /srv/videos/playlist.txt containing one entry per video, in the order you want them to play:
file '/srv/videos/intro.mp4'
file '/srv/videos/main-01.mp4'
file '/srv/videos/main-02.mp4'Use paths that the FFmpeg process can read. The concat demuxer is intended to join files with matching stream characteristics, including codecs and time bases. Differences between clips, or inaccurate duration metadata, can cause timestamp gaps or artifacts at boundaries. Inspect the files before scheduling the broadcast; this example has not been tested against any media files. See the FFmpeg concat demuxer documentation.
Recommended Free Tools
#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.
The -safe 0 option used below permits absolute paths in the list. Only use it with a playlist file you control.
Set up the YouTube encoder stream
- In YouTube Studio, create or schedule a live stream and choose the encoder workflow in Live Control Room.
- Copy the stream URL and stream key displayed for that stream. Enter the current values exactly as YouTube presents them; do not rely on a generic or hard-coded ingest address. YouTube explains the encoder setup in its encoder setup instructions and stream settings.
- Use RTMPS if YouTube offers it for your stream and your FFmpeg build supports it. YouTube’s RTMPS guidance covers protocol and connection troubleshooting.
Treat the stream key like a password. Do not expose it in public scripts, screenshots, logs, or shell history. If it is compromised, reset it in Studio.
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.
Start the infinite FFmpeg stream
Use this as a starting template, replacing the output placeholder with the correct output URL format and current URL/key values for your stream:
ffmpeg -re -stream_loop -1 -f concat -safe 0 -i /srv/videos/playlist.txt
-c:v libx264 -preset veryfast -b:v 10M -maxrate 10M -bufsize 20M
-pix_fmt yuv420p -r 30 -g 60
-c:a aac -b:a 128k -ar 44100
-f flv 'YOUTUBE_INGEST_URL_WITH_STREAM_KEY'-rereads the input at real-time speed.-stream_loop -1applies to the following input and repeats it indefinitely; FFmpeg documents-1as infinite looping. See the FFmpeg command-line documentation.-f concatselects the concat demuxer, and-ispecifies the playlist file.-c:v libx264and-c:a aacencode video and audio. The example uses a 30 fps output with a 60-frame GOP, corresponding to a two-second keyframe interval.-b:v,-maxrate, and-bufsizeset video rate-control values in this example. They are not a universal preset; adapt them to the sources, YouTube’s current guidance, and the server’s actual upload capacity.
The command does not scale or normalize source dimensions, frame rates, or audio layout. If clips differ, adjust the processing and test the output. If all media streams are already compatible with one another and YouTube’s requirements, stream-copying may reduce CPU use; mismatched inputs or unsuitable encoding settings can make that approach fail. FFmpeg’s demuxer documentation describes concat stream requirements.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchRank #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.
YouTube recommends H.264, CBR, AAC or MP3 audio, frame rates up to 60 fps, and a two-second keyframe interval, not exceeding four seconds, for RTMP/RTMPS encoder streams. For H.264 at 1080p/30, YouTube lists 5 Mbps minimum and 14 Mbps recommended; at 720p/30, it lists 3 Mbps minimum and 8 Mbps recommended. These are YouTube’s published recommendations, not a measurement of your server connection. Check the current YouTube encoder settings.
YouTube asks for the stream URL and key in separate encoder fields. FFmpeg command examples may combine them in an output URL, so follow the current format exposed for your stream rather than assuming the placeholder above is a literal address. If an RTMPS connection fails, check that the server/protocol and port are correct and that the installed FFmpeg build supports RTMPS.
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
Preview, go live, and stop the broadcast
- Run FFmpeg and wait for the incoming feed to appear in Live Control Room.
- Check the preview, stream health, and audio/video quality with representative movement and sound. YouTube recommends preparing the encoder at least two hours ahead and starting it at least 15 minutes before a scheduled event; see its streaming tips.
- For a scheduled stream, follow the Live Control Room prompt to go live. At the end, use YouTube’s End Stream control and stop the FFmpeg process.
YouTube says streams under 12 hours are automatically archived. Check your account’s stream settings and current Studio prompts, since options such as auto-start and auto-stop can affect the flow.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose an approach that fits the videos
| Approach | Fits best when | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
Concat demuxer with -stream_loop -1 |
You have a fixed ordered list of compatible files and want FFmpeg to repeat it without manually duplicating the list. | List syntax, stream compatibility, and duration metadata matter; mismatches can cause boundary problems. FFmpeg command-line docs and demuxer docs. |
| Pre-rendered combined file or another playlist/encoder system | Your clips need transitions, overlays, filters, or handling that is difficult with a simple concat list. | Requires an additional preparation or encoding workflow. The right choice depends on your library and operating needs; no specific alternative is established as best for every case. FFmpeg demuxer docs. |
Consider source compatibility, whether you need transitions or overlays, available CPU headroom if re-encoding, how often the playlist must change, and how you will monitor or recover the process. Neither this setup nor the documentation establishes a guarantee of uninterrupted availability.
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.
Troubleshoot common problems
- No preview in Live Control Room: Recheck the exact current stream URL and key, network access, output format, and FFmpeg protocol support. For connection or SSL errors, check RTMPS support and the server/protocol spelling and port against YouTube’s RTMPS guidance.
- The playlist fails or glitches at a clip boundary: Check the playlist syntax, file paths and permissions, stream compatibility, and duration metadata. The concat demuxer uses file durations when adjusting timestamps, and inaccurate durations can produce artifacts. See the FFmpeg demuxer documentation.
- Dropped frames or poor stream health: Check server CPU headroom and upload capacity. YouTube recommends selecting reliable encoder settings for the available connection and monitoring stream health; reduce bitrate or resolution if needed. Refer to YouTube’s encoder settings.
- The stream ends unexpectedly: Check whether the FFmpeg process is still running, review its logs, and investigate network stability, server uptime, and YouTube’s stream duration or configuration. A restart supervisor or other recovery setup is separate from the loop command and should be tested; this configuration alone does not promise unattended recovery.
Check rights before looping a documentary playlist
Confirm that you have the necessary rights for every video, soundtrack, and other asset in the playlist, including the right to retransmit it live. YouTube’s stream settings include a Rights Management area for managing ownership and Content ID, but that does not determine whether a particular playlist is licensed or eligible for monetization. Review the current YouTube stream settings and your channel’s applicable settings. This is not a rights clearance or legal determination.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you do not want to operate a Linux server and FFmpeg process yourself, StreamNeo keeps a YouTube channel live from uploaded videos: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; the stream runs from the cloud. Each slot streams uploads as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot, and StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. The monthly option is $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo pricing, or start your free day.
Quick Recap
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.
