The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →For a single clip, use OBS’s Media Source; for a list of clips that should advance in sequence, use VLC Video. The VLC Video source depends on VLC libraries, so install VLC if the source is missing—and match architectures (64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS). Before converting a playlist, test a representative file: a supported filename extension alone does not guarantee that every video, audio, or subtitle stream will work in your Linux setup.
Choose the OBS source that fits your playback
One video file: Media Source
Add a Media Source when the scene needs to play one individual file. OBS documents these video file types for the source: .mp4, .ts, .mov, .flv, .mkv, .avi, .gif, and .webm. Listed audio types include .mp3, .aac, .ogg, and .wav. That list describes extensions, not a guarantee that every codec variant or damaged file will decode in every OBS package.
Several clips in a playlist: VLC Video
Use the VLC Video source when you want multiple files in one source and playback to advance from clip to clip. It uses VLC libraries for extended media support and requires VLC to be installed to appear in OBS. OBS’s documentation specifies 64-bit VLC when OBS is 64-bit. Linux distributions package OBS and VLC in different ways, so the required package or integration depends on how your software was installed.
OBS documents both sources and their controls in its Media Sources guide.
#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.
Make the playlist appear and set its behavior
- Add the source: In the scene’s Sources dock, select + and choose VLC Video. If it is not listed, check that VLC is installed and that its architecture matches OBS; for 64-bit OBS, use 64-bit VLC.
- Populate the playlist: Add the files in the order you want them played. Start with a short, representative selection rather than adding or converting a whole library before you know the files work.
- Check shuffle and looping: Shuffle defaults off, while Loop Playlist defaults on. Leave shuffle off if you need the listed order, and decide whether playback should restart at the end of the playlist.
- Choose visibility behavior: Set what playback should do when its scene is hidden—stop, pause, or continue—according to how you switch scenes.
- Leave specialized controls alone unless needed: VLC Video also exposes network caching, audio track, and subtitle settings. Adjust these when a specific playback issue or requirement calls for it, rather than changing them as a generic preparation step.
- Preview the result: Check that clips advance as intended and that video, audio, subtitles, and aspect ratio are right before going live.
The defaults and available controls are documented by OBS; check them in the source properties rather than assuming playlist order or end behavior.
Check files before converting them
A file’s extension identifies its container or filename type, but it does not establish which codecs, audio tracks, or subtitles it contains—or whether your installed media stack can decode them. OBS’s format guide covers OBS audio/video workflows, including recording. Its note that HLS output consists of .ts segments and a playlist is specific to HLS output; it is not a recommendation to convert local playlist files to .ts.
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.
- Test one representative file in the intended source. Confirm that the picture appears, sound plays, subtitles behave as expected, and the image has the intended aspect ratio.
- If it fails, identify what the file contains. Check its video and audio codecs, resolution, frame rate, and audio or subtitle tracks; then check the media support available in your OBS/VLC installation.
- Convert only after diagnosis. Choose an output based on the identified incompatibility and your quality and file-size needs. There is no universally established conversion preset for every Linux distribution, OBS package, and source file.
- Retest the converted file in OBS. Confirm the same picture, sound, subtitle, and aspect-ratio behavior before applying a change across the playlist.
FFmpeg’s official documentation lists supported formats and codecs, but the available set depends on how FFmpeg was built. A format appearing in a general support list does not prove that a particular installed build—or the media stack OBS uses—supports every variant: FFmpeg documentation.
Keep the original or convert?
| Choice | Use it when | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Keep the original | The file plays correctly in the intended OBS source. | Verify picture, audio, subtitles, aspect ratio, and playlist behavior in your setup. |
| Convert a file | Testing and inspection identify an incompatibility that conversion can address. | Choose settings in light of the actual codecs, resolution, frame rate, tracks, quality needs, and file size; then retest. |
OBS’s supported extension list and FFmpeg’s build-dependent format support do not establish one universally best codec or container combination for Linux playlist streaming. The practical choice is the file that has been verified in the OBS source and installation you plan to use.
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 common playlist problems
- VLC Video is missing: Check that VLC is installed and that the OBS package can use its VLC integration. If OBS is 64-bit, install 64-bit VLC. Package names and integration vary by Linux distribution and OBS build.
- The source appears, but a clip has no picture or sound: The extension alone cannot confirm codec compatibility. Inspect that file’s streams and test the installed media stack; avoid converting every clip before identifying the failing file and stream.
- Clips play in an unexpected order: Check that Shuffle is off and inspect the playlist order.
- The playlist stops at the end: Check Loop Playlist; OBS documents it as on by default, but source properties should reflect the behavior you want.
- Playback changes when you switch scenes: Review the source’s visibility behavior and choose whether it should stop, pause, or continue while hidden.
- Subtitle or audio selection is wrong: Review the VLC Video source’s subtitle and audio-track controls, and test the affected file again.
- A network source stutters: VLC Video has a network-caching setting. Consider it only when the source is network-based and buffering is the symptom; it is not a general fix for local-file decoding problems.
Or let it run in the cloud
If the goal is an always-on YouTube channel playing uploaded videos, StreamNeo is a different workflow from OBS playlist streaming: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. StreamNeo loops the uploaded videos in the cloud, so no computer or home connection has to stay on. It streams the uploaded file as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; it also automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. The monthly option is $9.99 per month.
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
See StreamNeo or start your free day.
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.
