October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
DocumentaryTube
live streaming

How to Loop Multiple MP4 Files in OBS for a YouTube Live Stream

Use OBS's VLC Video Source to queue multiple MP4 files in order and repeat the playlist for a YouTube Live stream.

By DocumentaryTube Team 4 min read
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To loop several MP4 files in sequence in OBS, add a VLC Video Source, put the files in its playlist in the order you want, and leave Loop Playlist enabled. The playlist will start again at the first file after the last one finishes. This controls video playback in OBS; you still need to connect OBS to YouTube Live and verify the broadcast separately.

Before you set up the playlist

  • Install VLC if VLC Video Source is missing from OBS. OBS specifies that 64-bit OBS requires 64-bit VLC.
  • Have your MP4 files ready and decide their playback order.
  • Make sure YouTube Live is available for your channel. YouTube says first-time live-streaming activation can take up to 24 hours, so do not wait until the day of an event to enable it.

OBS documents VLC Video Source for Windows, macOS, and Linux, provided VLC is installed. Its built-in Media Source supports common media formats including MP4. See the OBS media sources documentation.

Create and loop a multi-file playlist

  1. In OBS, select the scene that should contain the videos.
  2. In the Sources dock, select + and choose VLC Video Source. Name the source if prompted, then confirm.
  3. In the source properties, add the MP4 files to the playlist. Arrange them in the exact order you want them to play.
  4. Leave Loop Playlist enabled. OBS documents it as on by default; it restarts playback from the beginning after the playlist reaches its end.
  5. Leave Shuffle Playlist off for predictable file-list order. OBS documents shuffle as off by default.
  6. Choose the source’s visibility behavior. OBS documents the default as Stop when not visible, restart when visible. This setting determines whether playback continues, pauses, or stops when the source is hidden in the scene. It does not control whether YouTube is broadcasting.
  7. Confirm the source is visible in the scene and check that its video and audio appear as expected in the OBS preview.

OBS’s documented setting labels and behavior are described in its media sources guide.

Choose the right OBS source

What you want to play OBS source Loop behavior Dependency
Several files, one after another, repeating as a list VLC Video Source Loop Playlist restarts the list; shuffle can be disabled to keep file-list order. VLC must be installed. OBS requires 64-bit VLC when OBS is 64-bit.
One file repeating Media Source Enable its Loop option to repeat the individual file. Built into OBS; VLC is not required.

For a list of separate MP4s, use VLC Video Source rather than adding a Media Source for each file. OBS documents Media Source’s Loop control for a single file, while VLC Video Source provides playlist controls.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#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.
  • 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.

Connect OBS to YouTube Live

  1. Open YouTube Studio and go to the channel’s Live Control Room. Create or open the stream and obtain its server URL and stream key.
  2. In OBS, open Settings → Stream. Choose YouTube as the service and enter the server URL and stream key as required by the available connection method.
  3. Apply the settings, then start the stream from OBS when ready. Check the preview in YouTube’s Live Control Room before making the broadcast public or relying on it for an event.
  4. Test the entire scene and connection for a few minutes before the planned stream. OBS recommends checking settings and testing; YouTube also recommends testing the setup in advance.

YouTube’s encoder workflow and preview checks are covered in its encoder streaming setup guide and live-streaming getting-started guidance.

What looping does—and does not—guarantee

Loop Playlist only repeats the media source. It does not ensure that OBS stays connected, that YouTube accepts the stream, or that the broadcast remains live. The outgoing stream depends on the encoder connection and your network as well as the playlist. YouTube recommends adequate upload bandwidth with room to spare and a reliable connection; see its live encoder settings and connectivity guidance.

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.)
  • 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.

Troubleshoot playback and the YouTube connection

Symptom Checks and fixes
VLC Video Source is not available Install VLC, then restart OBS and check again. If OBS is 64-bit, install 64-bit VLC.
Only one file plays, or the list does not restart Open the VLC source properties, confirm every intended MP4 is in the playlist, and enable Loop Playlist.
Files play in an unexpected order Reorder the playlist and make sure Shuffle Playlist is off.
Playback stops when switching scenes or hiding the source Review the source’s visibility behavior. Select a behavior that matches whether playback should continue, pause, or stop while the source is not visible.
The YouTube preview does not show the stream Check the YouTube server URL and stream key in OBS, then verify that the stream is started and that the Live Control Room is showing the correct stream preview.
The stream drops or becomes unstable Check the outgoing connection and available upload bandwidth. YouTube recommends a reliable network and upload capacity with spare room; playlist looping cannot correct a network interruption.

Copyright and channel-policy checks

Having permission to play a video in OBS is not the same as having permission to broadcast it on YouTube. Before streaming, confirm that you have the necessary rights to every video and audio track in the playlist. Replaying your own or licensed material does not by itself guarantee monetization or compliance with YouTube’s channel policies. Review YouTube’s current copyright and monetization requirements for your channel before running a long or recurring stream.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Or let it run in the cloud

If your goal is to keep a YouTube channel live from uploaded videos without leaving a home computer running, StreamNeo is a cloud alternative. Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It loops uploaded videos in the cloud; it does not stream from a camera.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
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.
  • Nothing has to stay on at home: your computer and OBS can be off while the cloud stream runs.
  • Each slot streams the upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot rather than separate quality tiers.
  • It attempts automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
  • The first day is free, with no card required; the free day is available once per account.

Monthly: $9.99 per month. The same product is included on every plan; only the billing length changes. UPI and cards are available in India, and card checkout is available worldwide. Start your free day with StreamNeo.

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.
  • 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
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2Ă— USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2Ă— 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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Screening Room

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.