YouTube, with over 2 billion monthly users, remains the go-to platform for video content. Whether you are a content creator, marketer, or business owner, understanding the best video length is essential for maximizing views, engagement, and retention. But what is the best length for YouTube videos?
Finding the best length for your YouTube videos can be complex. If you’re a YouTube creator looking to make videos, or a short-form creator looking to branch out into longer-form YouTube content, this whole conversation can be daunting.
If you want to understand the ideal video length for your audience, start by understanding the YouTube’s Algorithm. If you’re a new creator, this is something that won’t work for you right now. You’ll need to build up your channel a little to gather some data first.
YouTube’s algorithm
YouTube’s algorithm favors videos with higher watch times. Longer videos that keep viewers engaged can rank higher in search results and suggested videos.
Some general guidelines for YouTube video length include:
- Most people prefer videos between 8–15 minutes long.
- Videos beyond 12 minutes are likely either narrative-driven stories or extensive tutorials.
- Longer videos (30+ minutes) are increasingly seeing success.
Why Does Video Length Matter on YouTube?
- Audience Retention:
YouTube’s algorithm prioritizes videos with higher watch times. Keeping viewers engaged for the entire video boosts your chances of appearing in search results and suggested content. - Monetization:
Creators who aim to monetize need to know that videos longer than 8 minutes allow mid-roll ads, increasing potential ad revenue. - SEO and Discoverability:
Longer videos often rank better because they signal in-depth content, but only if they maintain high retention rates. - User Intent:
Viewers’ preferences vary depending on their intent. Tutorials may perform well with detailed explanations, while entertainment-focused videos thrive on shorter formats.
Factors that influence YouTube video length
Audience Demographics
- Younger audiences often prefer short, engaging videos.
- Professional or niche audiences may appreciate longer, detailed content.
Content Complexity
Simple topics can be covered in a few minutes, while in-depth tutorials may require more time. Avoid adding fluff—focus on delivering value.
Platform Trends
The rise of YouTube Shorts has shifted focus towards short-form content. However, longer videos still perform well for evergreen content.
Competitor Analysis
Finding the best length for your YouTube videos is often a matter of trial and error. It usually requires a balance between content depth and viewer engagement. But if you’re just getting started with your channel, you can use the recommended lengths as a starting point. As you create and publish more content, you can use your data to find the perfect length based on your individual audience.
Click here to know more on How to grow your YouTube Channel with Fujest