How to Use OBS to Stream a Pre-Recorded Video to YouTube
The exact OBS settings and workflow to broadcast a pre-recorded video file as a live YouTube stream — with troubleshooting tips for every common issue.
Free
OBS Studio — no subscription or license cost
10 min
Setup time for first pre-recorded OBS stream
MP4
Recommended format — best compatibility with OBS Media Source
2s
Required keyframe interval for YouTube live streams
⚡ Key Requirement
Your video file must be accessible to OBS on your local computer during the stream. OBS reads the file in real time — it doesn’t upload it first. Ensure the file stays open and accessible for the duration of the broadcast.
Step-by-Step: OBS Pre-Recorded Stream Setup
- Download and install OBS Studio from obsproject.com. Run the Auto-Configuration Wizard. When asked about streaming platform, select “YouTube.”
- Connect OBS to YouTube: Settings → Stream → Service: YouTube / YouTube-RTMPS → Click “Connect Account” (recommended) or paste your Stream Key manually.
- Set stream quality settings: Settings → Output → Mode: Advanced → Encoder: NVENC (GPU) or x264 → Rate Control: CBR → Bitrate: 6000 kbps for 1080p → Keyframe Interval: 2.
- Create a new Scene in OBS (click “+” in the Scenes box at the bottom left).
- Add your video file: In the Sources box, click “+” → “Media Source” → Create New → Browse to your video file → Uncheck “Loop” → OK.
- Position the media source to fill the canvas (right-click → Transform → Fit to Screen).
- Set up your YouTube stream details in YouTube Studio: title, description, thumbnail, privacy, schedule time.
- Start streaming: Click “Start Streaming” in OBS. Then in YouTube Studio, click “Go Live” to make the stream public.
- Monitor the stream in YouTube Studio’s Live Control Room. Check that video and audio are coming through before walking away.
OBS Settings Quick Reference
| Setting | Recommended Value | Location in OBS |
|---|---|---|
| Output Mode | Advanced | Settings → Output |
| Encoder | NVENC H.264 (GPU) or x264 | Settings → Output → Streaming |
| Rate Control | CBR | Settings → Output → Streaming |
| Bitrate | 6,000 kbps (1080p60) | Settings → Output → Streaming |
| Keyframe Interval | 2 seconds | Settings → Output → Streaming |
| Output Resolution | 1920×1080 | Settings → Video |
| FPS | 60 | Settings → Video |
Common Issues and Fixes
- Video file shows as black screen — ensure the media source is correctly linked; right-click source → Properties → re-browse to file. Also check that the file isn’t DRM-protected.
- Audio not playing from video — in OBS Audio Mixer, check “Media Source” channel is not muted. In Properties, verify “Use custom audio track” is unchecked.
- Video stutters during stream — convert your video to H.264 MP4 first using HandBrake (free). Some codecs aren’t efficiently read in real time by OBS.
- Stream starts but YouTube shows no video — check your stream key; it may have been reset. Generate a new key in YouTube Studio and update in OBS settings.
- Video ends but stream keeps running — OBS continues streaming your idle scene after the media source ends. Either check “Loop” in media properties or manually stop streaming when the video ends.
💡 Pro Tip
Use HandBrake (free) to convert any video to H.264 MP4 before streaming via OBS. This ensures maximum compatibility, smooth playback, and no codec-related stuttering issues during your broadcast.
OBS vs. Dedicated Streaming Services
OBS works well for occasional pre-recorded streams but has limitations for regular or automated streaming. If you want to schedule YouTube live streams automatically weeks in advance, dedicated streaming services are more practical.
✅ Use OBS When:
- Streaming occasionally (1–2× per week)
- You want free, open-source tool
- You need custom overlays
- You can manually start each stream
❌ OBS Falls Short When:
- You want fully unattended streams
- You need advance scheduling (days/weeks)
- You want multiple queued streams
- You’re running 24/7 live streams
Automate Your Pre-Recorded Streams
Upload videos, set a schedule, and go live automatically — no OBS required, no manual start every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be at my computer while OBS streams a pre-recorded video?
Yes, OBS must be running on your computer during the entire stream. If your computer sleeps, crashes, or OBS closes, the stream ends. For unattended streaming, use a dedicated streaming service that runs independently of your local machine.
Can OBS loop a video for 24/7 streaming?
Yes — check “Loop” in the Media Source properties. OBS will replay the video continuously. Note that your computer must remain on and OBS must keep running. For stable 24/7 streams, a dedicated streaming service or VPS is more reliable.
What video length works best for OBS pre-recorded streams?
Any length works technically, but 60–120 minute videos are ideal for YouTube’s algorithm. Very short streams (under 30 minutes) rarely generate enough watch time signals for significant algorithmic reach.