To loop a playlist in OBS, add a VLC Video Source, add your media files in the order you want, leave Shuffle Playlist off, and turn on Loop Playlist. The source can repeat a finite list of media files; it is not documented as a way to expand a YouTube playlist webpage URL into all its videos. For dependable looping, use media files you have the right to stream and test the scene before going live.
What OBS’s VLC Video Source can—and cannot—do
OBS’s VLC Video Source plays a playlist of media items and can restart playback after the last item. VLC must be installed for the source to appear in OBS. OBS’s documentation describes a playlist of media files, but does not promise that pasting a YouTube playlist page URL will load every video in that playlist. OBS Project’s Media Sources documentation explains the source’s playlist and playback settings.
That distinction matters: a finite list of local, authorized files is a different workflow from tracking an online YouTube playlist that may change. YouTube URL playback through VLC or an intermediary depends on extracting and resolving playable media URLs. VideoLAN warns that changes to YouTube transmission protocols can make some VLC YouTube playback obsolete; that is a compatibility warning, not proof that every URL currently fails. See the VideoLAN VLC FAQ.
Set up a repeating media playlist in OBS
- Install VLC with the matching architecture. If you use 64-bit OBS, install 64-bit VLC. Restart OBS if the source does not appear after installation. OBS lists VLC as a dependency for VLC Video Source.
- Add the source. In OBS, select the scene where the playlist should play. In the Sources dock, click +, choose VLC Video Source, enter a name, and confirm. The OBS Sources Guide covers adding sources and positioning them in a scene.
- Populate the playlist. In the source’s properties, add the media paths or URLs you intend to use, then arrange them in the desired sequence. For an uninterrupted, repeatable setup, local media files you are authorized to stream avoid dependence on online URL extraction.
- Set the sequence and repeat behavior. Leave Shuffle Playlist off to keep the listed order. Turn Loop Playlist on so the source restarts after it runs out of media files. OBS documents Loop Playlist as on by default and Shuffle Playlist as off by default; check the installed settings rather than assuming defaults were not changed.
- Choose how playback behaves when hidden. Set Visibility Behaviour deliberately. OBS documents the default as stopping playback while the source is not visible and restarting it when visible. If the playlist should continue while another scene is active, select a continue-playing behavior if your installed OBS version offers it.
- Fit the source to the scene. Check the preview, then resize or position the source using its bounding box or OBS’s Edit Transform option. Confirm that the video fills the intended area without covering other sources unexpectedly.
- Test a full cycle before going live. Check playback, audio, scene switching, and whether the final item returns to the first item. A short preview that ends before the playlist finishes cannot verify the loop.
Settings worth checking
| Setting | Documented default or behavior | When to change it |
|---|---|---|
| Loop Playlist | On by default; restarts the source after it runs out of media files. | Keep it on for a repeating finite playlist. |
| Shuffle Playlist | Off by default; randomizes item order when enabled. | Leave it off when sequence matters. |
| Visibility Behaviour | Stops when the source is not visible and restarts when visible. | Choose a continue-playing option, if available, when playback must persist across scene changes. |
| Network caching | 400 ms in OBS documentation. | Increasing buffering may trade latency for resilience, but the documentation does not quantify an improvement for YouTube URLs. |
| Audio Track | Track 1. | Check it if audio is missing or the wrong track or language plays. |
| Subtitles | Disabled by default; track 1 is the default if subtitles are enabled. | Enable and select a subtitle track only if the media and stream need it. |
These documented defaults are described in the OBS Media Sources documentation (published January 11, 2022). Labels and available choices can differ by installed version.
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.
Using a YouTube playlist URL is a separate, fragile workflow
Do not assume that pasting a YouTube playlist webpage URL into OBS’s VLC Video Source will expand it into a working playlist. The OBS documentation establishes playlist support for media items, not native processing of YouTube playlist pages. The yt-dlp FAQ documents YouTube playlist processing and, separately, streaming media to VLC; it does not establish that OBS natively handles a YouTube playlist URL.
An extractor or intermediary may be able to resolve online media for a player, but that adds a dependency that can break when YouTube changes its delivery methods. VideoLAN’s FAQ specifically cautions that protocol changes can make VLC’s YouTube handling obsolete. Any such workflow also requires you to check current tool maintenance, installation guidance for your operating system, YouTube’s terms, and your rights to use the material. There is no universal, durable direct-URL fix established here.
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.
Troubleshooting
- VLC Video Source is missing: Install VLC, restart or reopen OBS, and check that VLC and OBS have matching architecture—especially 64-bit VLC for 64-bit OBS.
- The playlist stops at the end: Open the source properties and enable Loop Playlist. Confirm that the final item finishes rather than remaining stuck or failing to load.
- Items play in the wrong order: Disable Shuffle Playlist and review the playlist item order in the source properties.
- Playback stops after switching scenes: Review Visibility Behaviour. The documented default stops playback while the source is hidden and restarts it when visible.
- A YouTube URL used to work but no longer plays: YouTube transmission changes can disrupt VLC playback. Recheck the current compatibility of VLC and any external extraction workflow; a universal current fix is not established.
- There is no sound or the wrong language plays: Check the VLC Video Source’s Audio Track setting; its documented default is track 1. Also verify the media file itself has the expected audio.
- The picture is cropped or misplaced: Select the source in the preview and adjust its size and position, or use Edit Transform.
Copyright and YouTube live-stream checks
Looping content in OBS does not grant permission to broadcast it. Before streaming, make sure you have the rights to the video, music, and other included material, including any material that may be audible or visible in the recording. YouTube can enforce its copyright rules during or after a live stream; a playlist setting cannot prevent claims or takedowns. Review YouTube’s current live-stream and copyright requirements, and use the copyright safety checklist as a pre-stream check.
A technically continuous stream is not a guarantee of YouTube monetization or recommendation eligibility. Reused-content decisions are separate from whether OBS can loop a file; make sure the channel and stream meet YouTube’s current policies rather than treating repetition as a policy workaround.
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.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want an uploaded recording or playlist to keep a YouTube channel live without leaving OBS or a home computer running, StreamNeo runs the loop in the cloud. Upload your video or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. It plays uploaded videos rather than broadcasting a camera feed.
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
- Nothing has to stay on at home; the stream runs from the cloud.
- One flat price per slot for any upload quality up to 4K 60fps, streamed as made without re-encoding or quality tiers.
- Automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
- The first day is free with no card, one free day per account.
- Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Start your free StreamNeo 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.
