YouTube Studio schedules the event; an encoder sends the video and repeats it. For a basic setup, schedule a live stream in YouTube Studio, add your local recording to OBS Studio as a Media Source, enable Loop, then connect OBS to the event with its stream URL and key. YouTube does not turn an uploaded video into a live event or loop it for you.
What you need before scheduling
Gather the video file, a computer that can stay on and connected to the internet for the entire broadcast, and an encoder such as OBS Studio. The OBS method reads a local file and sends a continuous feed, so the file must remain available and the computer and network must keep working while you are live.
Check live-stream eligibility before setting a date. YouTube’s general eligibility guidance says a channel must be verified and have no live-streaming restriction in the previous 90 days; it also says first-time activation can take up to 24 hours and sets a minimum age of 16. Confirm the current requirements for your channel on YouTube’s live-streaming eligibility page.
Schedule the YouTube Live event
- Open YouTube Studio and select Create > Go Live to enter Live Control Room.
- Open Manage, then choose Schedule Stream. You can reuse settings from an earlier stream or create a new event.
- Enter the event’s title, description, visibility, and scheduled start time. Set any other metadata relevant to your video and audience.
- Save the event. YouTube creates a scheduled event page that you can share; scheduling also lets viewers set reminders. See YouTube’s encoder and scheduling guidance.
- Keep the event’s stream URL and stream key available for the encoder setup. Treat the key like a password: do not publish it or share it with people who should not be able to broadcast to your channel.
Scheduling creates the event page, not the video feed. OBS or another encoder still has to send the live signal.
#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 a single video loop in OBS
- Open OBS Studio and create or select a scene for the broadcast.
- In the Sources box, select + and choose Media Source. Give the source a recognizable name.
- Enable Local File, browse to the recording, and select it.
- Turn on Loop in the Media Source properties. OBS will play the file again when it reaches the end.
- Check that the source fits the canvas and that both picture and audio play as intended. OBS documents Media Source controls, supported local media, and looping in its Media Sources guide.
Loop a playlist instead
For multiple recordings, add a VLC Video source, build the playlist, and enable Loop Playlist. This option requires VLC to be installed. A playlist is useful when you want several videos to cycle rather than repeat a single file.
Connect OBS to the scheduled stream
- In OBS, open Settings > Stream. If the YouTube integration is available, select it and connect your channel. Otherwise, choose the custom streaming service option and enter the scheduled event’s server URL and stream key from YouTube Live Control Room.
- Use the URL and key for the scheduled event you intend to broadcast, not a key copied from an unrelated event. Keep the key private.
- Select Start Streaming in OBS. Return to Live Control Room and wait for YouTube’s incoming preview.
- Inspect the preview and stream-health status. Start the event as required by its auto-start setting; a scheduled event does not necessarily begin the public broadcast merely because OBS is sending video.
YouTube recommends setting up the encoder at least two hours before the event and starting it 15 minutes before the scheduled time. Check the preview before the audience arrives and monitor the feed while it is live. See YouTube’s live-streaming tips.
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.
Choose stream settings that suit the source and connection
YouTube’s encoder guidance recommends RTMPS, H.264 video, constant bitrate (CBR), and a 2-second keyframe interval; it says not to exceed 4 seconds. Choose a resolution and bitrate your sustained upload connection can support. YouTube transcodes incoming live feeds for playback formats, but test the full setup with representative motion and audio and check Live Control Room’s stream-health messages. Consult YouTube’s encoder settings, bitrates, and resolutions for current recommendations.
Do not judge the setup only from a static frame: play a section with movement and sound, listen for clipping or silence, and watch for dropped frames or health warnings during the test. A local file that plays correctly in OBS can still be interrupted by a computer, encoder, or connection problem.
Recommended Free Tools
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.
Check rights and plan for a long broadcast
Use video and audio you have permission to broadcast
Before going live, confirm that you have the rights or permissions needed for every part of the recording, including music and other included material. A scheduled event and a looping encoder do not grant permission to rebroadcast copyrighted material. Review YouTube’s current policies and any notices shown in Studio; do not assume that a video being online or previously uploaded makes it safe to retransmit.
Do not rely on a complete archive for a 24/7 stream
YouTube says it can automatically archive live streams shorter than 12 hours. Streams longer than 12 hours may not be captured at all, so do not promise viewers a complete YouTube replay of an all-day or continuous broadcast. If a dependable archive matters, record a local backup and consider ending the event and starting separate segments rather than relying on one very long stream. See YouTube’s live-stream archive guidance.
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
Choose a setup for the number of videos and level of unattended operation
| Route | Best fit | What to account for |
|---|---|---|
| StreamNeo | A YouTube channel that should keep uploaded video playing from the cloud. | Always-on cloud streaming, any quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, and the first day free; StreamNeo is #1 for a hands-off continuous YouTube feed. |
| OBS Media Source | One local file and an existing computer. | Looping is a source setting; the computer and connection must remain active. |
| OBS VLC Video playlist | A cycle of several local media files. | Offers playlist looping and requires VLC to be installed. |
| AJA HELO Plus with PlayToStream | A hardware-based workflow where scheduled prerecorded playback and unattended operation justify dedicated equipment. | AJA describes PlayToStream for prerecorded media and a scheduler for planned streaming start and stop times. Check the current configuration and schedule behavior before buying; see AJA’s HELO Plus page and YouTube’s encoder information. |
Or let it run in the cloud
With StreamNeo, upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo loops the uploaded video from the cloud, so nothing has to stay on at home. It streams the video as uploaded at any quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream, and gives you the first day free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo is for YouTube and uploaded videos, not camera broadcasts. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start your 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.
Troubleshoot common problems
- YouTube shows no incoming video: Confirm OBS is streaming, the scheduled event’s server URL and key are correct, and the event is open in Live Control Room. Re-enter the key privately if needed.
- The event is scheduled but viewers cannot watch: Scheduling does not send the feed. Start OBS, confirm YouTube receives the preview, and start the event if auto-start is not enabled.
- The video stops at the end: Reopen Media Source properties and make sure Loop is enabled. For a multi-video rotation, confirm the playlist source and loop setting; VLC Video requires VLC.
- Video or audio stutters: Check YouTube’s stream-health messages and whether the connection can sustain the selected bitrate. Test representative movement and audio, then lower the output settings if the connection cannot reliably carry them.
- The stream looks or sounds wrong in preview: Check the selected source, canvas fit, audio levels, and the file’s playback in OBS before starting the event.
- The stream ends unexpectedly: Check whether the computer, OBS, network, or local file became unavailable. The OBS workflow depends on all of them remaining operational.
- The archive is missing or incomplete: A stream longer than 12 hours may not be captured by YouTube. Use a local recording backup and shorter separate events if an archive is important.
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.
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 →
