Recommended Free Tools
To loop a pre-recorded video on YouTube Live with OBS Studio 30, add the file as a Media Source, turn on Loop, and set OBS’s stream output to match YouTube’s encoder guidance. If you want playback to begin only after OBS connects to YouTube, start on a holding scene and switch to the video scene once the stream is underway. OBS playback and YouTube’s live status are separate controls.
Set up one video to repeat
- Create or select a scene. Choose the scene that should display the video.
- Add the file. In the Sources panel, select + and choose Media Source. Give it a name, select the local video file, and confirm. OBS lists common formats including MP4, MOV, MKV, AVI, and WebM. See the OBS Media Sources guide.
- Enable looping. In the Media Source properties, check Loop. This replays the file when playback reaches its end; OBS lists the setting as off by default.
- Choose its activation behavior. Check Restart playback when source becomes active if the file should start from the beginning whenever the source becomes visible in the current scene.
- Check framing and sound. Make sure the video fits the canvas and its audio is routed and audible as intended. Test the scene before streaming.
Loop and Restart playback when source becomes active do different things: the first repeats the file at the end; the second restarts it when the source becomes visible. Enable both for a video that should repeat continuously and restart whenever it is shown.
Use a playlist instead of one file
For multiple local files, add a VLC Video source and configure its playlist, looping, or shuffle controls. This source requires VLC to be installed. A 64-bit OBS installation requires 64-bit VLC. OBS also provides visibility behavior settings for hidden sources. For one file, Media Source is the simpler built-in option. Details are in the OBS Media Sources guide.
Start playback after OBS connects
A Media Source begins or restarts playback in response to source visibility and activation. That does not mean YouTube has made the event live to viewers. The stream key and server URL send OBS’s feed to YouTube; the source’s playback settings control the local video.
#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.
- Create a holding scene that does not contain the video source.
- Start streaming from OBS and wait for the feed to connect in YouTube Live Control Room.
- Switch to the scene containing the video source. If restart-on-activation is enabled, playback starts from the beginning when the source becomes visible.
This scene handoff is a practical way to avoid playing the opening while OBS is connecting. YouTube’s stream settings are managed separately from OBS source playback; see Manage live stream settings.
Match OBS output to YouTube’s encoder guidance
In YouTube Live Control Room, get the stream URL and stream key for the event, then enter them in OBS’s streaming configuration. Use a supported protocol and encoder configuration. YouTube recommends RTMPS; its listed video codecs include H.264, H.265/HEVC, and AV1. H.264 is a broadly applicable choice when your available OBS encoder supports it.
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.
- Rate control: CBR.
- Keyframe interval: two seconds recommended; do not exceed four seconds.
- Audio codec: AAC or MP3. For stereo, YouTube lists 44.1 kHz and 128 kbps as recommended advanced settings.
- Resolution and frame rate: YouTube detects these automatically by default in Live Control Room. Choose an output your computer and connection can sustain.
The bitrate figures below are YouTube Help’s published recommendations for live ingestion. Select the row that matches both the output and codec configured in OBS; these are configuration recommendations, not guarantees of stream performance.
| Output | H.264 minimum | H.264 recommended | AV1 or H.265 minimum | AV1 or H.265 recommended |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1080p30 | 5 Mbps | 14 Mbps | 4 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| 720p30 | 3 Mbps | 8 Mbps | 2 Mbps | 6 Mbps |
These figures are from YouTube Help’s encoder settings page, checked 2026-10-03; the page does not state a publication year. Consult YouTube’s current live encoder settings for other resolutions or frame rates and to confirm the latest recommendations. The available interface may differ from a preserved OBS Studio 30 screen; check the installed version if a label has changed.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsRank #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.
Test bandwidth, scenes, and stream health
YouTube recommends leaving 20% headroom between your total outgoing stream bitrate and available upload bandwidth. The figure is YouTube’s recommendation, not a guarantee that a connection will remain stable. Test before going live using audio and movement similar to the intended stream, then monitor stream health and messages during the event. See YouTube’s streaming tips.
- Confirm the local file plays through to its end and loops as expected.
- Check that the intended scene and source are visible, and that both picture and audio reach the OBS output.
- Verify the codec, CBR setting, keyframe interval, resolution, frame rate, and bitrate against the selected YouTube guidance.
- Confirm the YouTube preview receives the feed before switching away from the holding scene.
- Test the full scene handoff and watch YouTube’s stream health indicators.
OBS’s overview guide recommends testing scenes and stream performance before the first live stream.
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
Troubleshoot common playback and stream problems
- The video stops at the end: Open Media Source properties and enable Loop.
- The video resumes partway through after switching scenes: Enable Restart playback when source becomes active if it should restart whenever it is shown.
- The opening plays before YouTube receives the feed: Begin on a holding scene, start the stream, then switch to the video scene after the feed connects.
- A playlist source is unavailable: Install VLC and ensure its architecture matches OBS. A 64-bit OBS installation needs 64-bit VLC.
- YouTube reports an unstable or unhealthy stream: Check that total outgoing bitrate fits available upload bandwidth with YouTube’s recommended 20% headroom. Verify the encoder settings against the codec-specific guidance and test before the event.
- Viewers cannot hear the video: Check the source audio routing and the OBS output mix, then confirm audio is present in the YouTube preview before going live.
Copyright and YouTube live rules
Using a pre-recorded file does not remove the need to have rights to its video and audio. Confirm that you have permission to stream every component, including music, clips, photographs, and archival footage, and review YouTube’s applicable copyright and monetization policies before broadcasting. A successful OBS setup or a healthy preview does not establish that content is cleared for use.
Or let it run in the cloud
If you want a YouTube channel to keep looping uploaded videos without leaving a home computer running, StreamNeo runs the stream in the cloud. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on, and the service automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. Uploaded video streams as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot with no re-encode or quality tiers. The first day is free with no card. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo is for YouTube streams of uploaded videos, not camera broadcasts. Start your free day with StreamNeo.
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallQuick 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.
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.
