Either MP4 or MOV can work. OBS lists both as supported video file types for its built-in Media Source on Windows, macOS and Linux. The extension alone does not guarantee that every file’s video and audio codecs will play correctly, so test your actual clip in the scene before you go live. OBS Media Sources
MP4 and MOV are local file containers, not YouTube stream settings
MP4 and MOV describe containers that hold video and audio streams. Your local clip’s container is separate from the encoding settings OBS sends to YouTube. Choosing an MP4 or MOV file does not set the outgoing live stream’s video codec, bitrate, frame rate, audio codec or keyframe interval. YouTube’s encoder guidance covers those stream settings.
OBS describes MP4 as a de facto standard for internet video and MOV as a closely related format with some differences in codec compatibility and a historical preference on Mac platforms. For playback, the decisive issue is whether the particular video and audio codecs inside your file work in the playback path you choose, as well as whether the file is compatible with the software that created it. OBS Audio/Video Formats Guide
Play a single MP4 or MOV clip with OBS Media Source
- In OBS, select the scene where the clip should appear. In the Sources box, click + and choose Media Source.
- Create a new source or select an existing one, then choose the local video file. OBS lists MP4 and MOV as supported types for Media Source on Windows, macOS and Linux. OBS Media Sources
- Set playback behavior for the scene: enable Loop only if the clip should repeat; use Restart playback when source becomes active if it should start from the beginning whenever that scene becomes active. Media Source also offers hardware decoding when available and an option to hide the source after playback.
- Preview the scene from beginning to end, checking picture, sound, timing and transitions. Listen for missing audio or unexpected silence, and confirm that the clip starts and ends where you expect.
When to use VLC Video instead
Use OBS’s VLC Video source if you need playlist behavior or broader media support than the built-in Media Source provides. VLC must be installed. If you are running 64-bit OBS, install the matching 64-bit VLC version. Add the source, configure its playlist and playback behavior, then preview every item and transition before the broadcast. OBS Media Sources
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- 【1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card】 This HDMI game capture card is based on USB3.0 high speed transmission port, input resolution up to 4K@30HZ, output resolution up to 2K@30Hz or 1920×1080@60Hz. Type c and USB interface can meet most of the devices in daily life. Easily meet the online capture, real-time recording, online meetings, live gaming and other functions, so you have a better visual enjoyment. Note: For capture use only; requires capture software to function and is not intended for direct screen casting to a monitor or TV
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- 【Plug and Play, Easy to Carry】 This HDMI 1080P video capture card does not require any additional drivers or external power supply, just plug and play for fast capture. The capture card is small and lightweight, so you can put it in your bag for emergencies, making it very portable for outdoor live streaming. It's also a great way to share content in game recording, video conference, video recorder and online teaching
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- 【Package Content & Note】 1x HD Audio Capture Card , 1x USB 3.0 to USB C Adapter (A-side 3.0, B-side 2.0), 1x user manual. Please note that you need to restart the OBS Studio software after the audio setup is complete, otherwise it will result in no sound output. When using an adapter, if the device is recognized as USB 2.0, try using the other side with the USB-C port. Simply flip the capture card and reconnect it to be recognized as USB 3.0
Set the outgoing YouTube stream separately
After confirming that the local file plays, check OBS’s streaming output against YouTube’s current guidance for your chosen encoder and resolution. YouTube lists H.264, H.265/HEVC and AV1 video options; AAC or MP3 audio; CBR bitrate encoding; and a recommended keyframe interval of two seconds, not exceeding four seconds. Follow the settings applicable to your encoder and stream rather than assuming that the MP4 or MOV source determines them. YouTube encoder settings
Before the event, test with movement and audio representative of the actual broadcast, then monitor YouTube’s stream health during the live stream. A static test image or silent preview may not expose problems that appear with the real clip’s motion or sound. YouTube encoder settings
Rank #2
- 【1080P HD High Quality】Capture resolution up to 1080p for video source and it is ideal for all HDMI devices such as PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, DVDs, DSLR, Camera, Security Camera and set top box. Note: Video input supports 4K30/60Hz and 1080p120/144Hz. Does not support 4K120Hz/144Hz. Output supports up to 2K30Hz.
- 【Plug and Play】No driver or external power supply required, true PnP. Once plugged in, the device is identified automatically as a webcam. Detect input and adjust output automatically. Won't occupy CPU, optional audio capture. No freeze with correct setting.
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Troubleshoot playback and recording separately
- OBS shows no picture or audio: Check that the selected file is correct and that its video and audio codecs are compatible with the playback path. Try VLC Video if Media Source cannot play it; VLC must be installed, with matching architecture for 64-bit OBS.
- The picture plays but audio does not: Check whether the file contains an audio track and whether OBS is receiving it in the scene. Preview and listen before going live; changing the filename extension alone does not change the underlying encoding.
- The clip starts at the wrong point when returning to its scene: Enable Restart playback when source becomes active if the desired behavior is to begin at the start on each activation.
- The clip stops but should repeat: Enable Loop in the Media Source properties.
- YouTube reports stream-health trouble despite successful local playback: Check the outgoing encoder settings and stream health; local container compatibility and YouTube delivery are separate parts of the workflow.
Do not confuse playing a clip as a source in an OBS scene with a scheduled YouTube stream trailer. YouTube documents trailers as a separate feature for eligible creators, configured in live-stream settings. Manage live stream settings
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is to keep uploaded videos looping on a YouTube channel without leaving OBS or a computer running, StreamNeo is a cloud option: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; each slot streams the upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. Start your free day on StreamNeo.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- High-Quality Video Capture, 4K HDMI Capture Card Ready: Capture smooth and vibrant video with this 4K HDMI capture card, engineered for gamers and content creators who demand crisp 1080P 60FPS video quality. Whether you're streaming to Twitch or recording gameplay for YouTube, your footage will look professional and detailed
- Plug-and-Play USB Capture Card, No Drivers Needed: Designed as a USB capture card for streaming, this device works instantly out of the box, just plug into your PC or laptop and start capturing. Fully compatible with popular software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit, making setup quick and stress-free for beginners and pros alike
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Rank #3
- 【4K HDMI Input, 2K@30Hz Recording】Powered by a true USB 3.0 high-speed interface, the capture card supports up to 4K@30Hz HDMI input and records at 2K@30Hz or 1080P@60Hz. Perfect for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need crisp, smooth video for live streaming, gameplay recording, or online meetings.
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】Built with a premium aluminum alloy shell and advanced chipset for stable heat dissipation, ensuring ultra-low latency transmission. Capture high-quality video and dual-channel audio in real time—no lag, no frame drop—ideal for Twitch, YouTube, or OBS streaming.
- 【Easy Plug and Play, Compact & Portable】No driver or external power required—just plug and play via USB 3.0 or Type-C connection to your Windows or macOS computer. Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry for outdoor streaming, live shows, or mobile recording setups.
- 【Wide Compatibility & Multi-Device Support】Compatible with Windows 7 8 10 11, macOS, Linux,Android and supports most popular software such as OBS, Zoom, VLC, Twitch Studio, and more. Works seamlessly with PS4, PS5, Xbox, Switch, DSLR cameras, TV boxes, and other HDMI-output devices for streaming to YouTube, Twitch, etc.
- 【What You Get】Includes: HDMI Capture Card, USB 3.0 to USB-C Adapter, User Manual. Tips: Make sure your tablet’s OTG function is enabled before connecting. Test your HDMI device with a monitor first to confirm video and audio output, then connect to the Video Capture Card for recording.
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