To schedule different OBS playlists during a 24/7 YouTube stream, put each content block in its own OBS scene and use Advanced Scene Switcher macros to change scenes at the times you choose. YouTube Studio schedules and manages the broadcast; OBS plays the files and switches between them. The computer running OBS must remain on and connected for this do-it-yourself setup.
Choose a schedule that fits your programming
First decide whether blocks should change at fixed clock times or when a playlist finishes. A clock-based schedule might switch from one documentary collection to another every evening; an end-of-file schedule starts the next set only after the current one finishes. OBS’s VLC Video source can play a playlist, but its loop and shuffle controls do not create a clock-based timetable by themselves.
- Clock-based: Make a separate scene for each block and automate scene changes with date/time conditions.
- Sequential: Arrange files in the desired order in a playlist. Confirm how playback behaves at the end of the list and test it before relying on unattended operation.
Keep video files in stable local folders, and give scenes and sources descriptive, consistent names. OBS documents support for local video files and VLC-based playlists: OBS media sources.
Set up playlists and scenes in OBS
Install VLC for the VLC Video source
OBS’s VLC Video source requires VLC to be installed. Match the architecture: OBS says a 64-bit OBS installation needs 64-bit VLC. If the source is missing, check VLC installation and restart OBS.
#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.
Add a playlist source
- In OBS, select the scene for the first programming block, or create one in the Scenes dock.
- In the Sources dock, select +, choose VLC Video, and create the source.
- In the source properties, add the local video files to the playlist in the order you want. Choose whether the playlist should loop or shuffle.
- Repeat for each content block, using separate scenes where the blocks need different schedules. Add any overlays or audio sources needed for that block.
- Preview each scene and verify that its files play correctly from their saved locations.
For one video that should repeat, OBS’s standard Media Source has a Loop option. A community alternative, Media Playlist Source, describes playlist, folder, and shuffle functions; its listed release requires OBS 31 or later. Confirm compatibility with your installed OBS version before installing it: Media Playlist Source.
Automate clock-time scene changes
Advanced Scene Switcher provides macros with conditions and actions, including date/time conditions and scene actions. For its listed version 1.36.1, the resource specifies OBS 31.1.1 or later. Check the plugin page for the current compatibility details before installing or upgrading: Advanced Scene Switcher.
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.
- Install a compatible Advanced Scene Switcher release and open its dock or settings in OBS.
- Create a macro for each scheduled boundary. Configure a date/time condition for when the block should begin and an action that switches to its OBS scene.
- Make the schedule unambiguous: decide which scene should be active before the first change, what happens overnight, and whether the schedule repeats daily or varies by date.
- Test each macro at its boundary and run a representative full cycle. Confirm that the intended scene becomes active and its playlist plays as expected.
- Back up the OBS scene collection and plugin settings before upgrades or major schedule edits.
These are the plugin’s documented capabilities, not a guarantee that an unattended setup will remain operational. Test after OBS or plugin updates.
Schedule the YouTube broadcast separately
A scheduled YouTube broadcast is not the same thing as the OBS playlist timetable. YouTube Studio manages the broadcast; OBS sends the encoder feed and supplies the media content. Google’s API documentation likewise treats broadcasts and streams as separate resources that can be bound together. API automation can manage broadcast resources, but it does not set up local OBS playlist playback.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
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.
- In YouTube Studio, open the Live Control Room and create or schedule the broadcast.
- In OBS, configure the YouTube stream URL and stream key for the encoder connection. Keep the key private.
- Start the encoder feed from OBS. For a scheduled encoder stream, YouTube’s workflow is to wait for the preview in Live Control Room, then select Go live.
- If the channel has never streamed live before, allow for YouTube’s stated activation time: enabling live streaming for the first time may take up to 24 hours.
YouTube says, “Scheduling a stream lets you promote your stream.” See Create a YouTube live stream with an encoder. For programmatic broadcast management, consult Google’s liveBroadcasts and liveStreams API documentation.
Plan for session boundaries and failures
Account for YouTube archiving
YouTube Help states that streams under 12 hours are automatically archived. It does not promise the same automatic archiving for a single stream longer than 12 hours. For a 24/7 channel, verify YouTube’s current behavior and decide how to handle successive broadcast sessions or another supported arrangement rather than assuming one uninterrupted session will be archived.
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
Test the cases that can interrupt programming
- A playlist ends or a file is missing: Check the source playlist, file paths, and end-of-playback behavior. Test with the actual media before leaving the stream unattended.
- OBS restarts: Confirm the correct scene, source playback, macros, and encoder connection after a restart.
- The network drops: Test reconnection and establish an alert or operator recovery path. Scene-switching automation is not an uptime guarantee.
- A scene change coincides with a session boundary: Test the transition and broadcast handoff together, not only as separate tasks.
- You update OBS or a plugin: Recheck plugin compatibility and rerun the schedule tests before relying on it.
Which scheduling approach should you use?
| Approach | Best for | Schedule behavior | Main caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
| OBS VLC Video playlist in one scene | A fixed ordered or shuffled file set | Plays playlist items; can loop or shuffle | Requires VLC; playlist controls alone do not provide a clock-based timetable. |
| Multiple OBS scenes plus Advanced Scene Switcher | Different blocks at particular times | Macros can use date/time conditions and scene actions | Requires compatible plugin setup and testing of transitions and recovery. |
| Media Playlist Source plugin | Playlist editing through a media-source-style plugin | Its author describes playlist, folder, and shuffle functions | Community plugin; the listed release requires OBS 31 or later, and compatibility can change. |
| YouTube Live Streaming API | Programmatic management of scheduled broadcast resources | Manages broadcast and stream resources | Does not configure local OBS playlist content. |
Choose based on whether your schedule is clock-based or end-of-file, whether playback must be ordered or shuffled, your willingness to install plugins, compatibility with your OBS version, and how you will handle broadcast-session boundaries.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want YouTube to keep playing uploaded videos without leaving an OBS computer running at home, StreamNeo is a cloud option. Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It plays uploaded videos on YouTube; it does not stream from a camera. Nothing has to stay on at home, and the video streams as uploaded at any quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot. StreamNeo automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
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.
Monthly: $9.99 per month
Start your free first day with StreamNeo.
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.
