How to upload a video to YouTube

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To upload a video to YouTube, sign in to your YouTube account, click on the camera icon with a '+' sign at the top right corner, select 'Upload video', and follow the prompts to choose your video file and fill in the necessary details. This process can be done via a web browser, mobile app, or desktop application.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before uploading a video to YouTube, ensure you have the following:
  • •A YouTube account (Google account) with no restrictions on video uploads.
  • •A stable internet connection (recommended minimum speed of 5 Mbps for HD uploads).
  • •Video file in a supported format (e.g., MP4, AVI, MOV).
  • •Access to the video file on your device (local storage, cloud storage, etc.).
  • •Optional: Video editing software if you need to edit your video before uploading.

Method 1: Uploading via Web Browser

This method is ideal for users who prefer using a desktop or laptop computer to upload videos.
  • •Step 1: Open a web browser and go to [YouTube.com](https://www.youtube.com).
  • •Step 2: Click on the camera icon with a '+' sign located at the top right corner of the page.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Upload video' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 4: In the upload interface, click on 'Select files' to choose your video file from your device.
  • •Step 5: Fill in the video details such as title, description, and tags.
  • •Step 6: Choose a thumbnail or upload a custom thumbnail.
  • •Step 7: Set the video's visibility (Public, Unlisted, or Private).
  • •Step 8: Click on 'Publish' to complete the upload.
  • •Step 9: Verify the upload by checking for the confirmation message 'Your video has been published.'

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users will find a slightly updated interface but the steps remain largely the same.
  • •Use the Microsoft Edge or any preferred browser to access YouTube.
  • •The camera icon will be located in the same position as in Windows 10.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow the same steps as outlined above.
  • •Ensure your browser is updated to avoid compatibility issues.
  • •The upload interface may vary slightly based on the browser used.

Method 2: Uploading via YouTube Mobile App

This method is convenient for users who prefer to upload videos directly from their mobile devices.
  • •Step 1: Open the YouTube app on your mobile device.
  • •Step 2: Tap on the '+' icon at the bottom center of the screen.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Upload a video' from the options.
  • •Step 4: Choose the video you want to upload from your gallery.
  • •Step 5: Add a title, description, and tags as needed.
  • •Step 6: Set the visibility of the video.
  • •Step 7: Tap 'Upload' to start the process.
  • •Step 8: Confirm the upload by checking for the 'Upload complete' notification.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while uploading, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'File format not supported' - Solution: Convert your video to a supported format like MP4 using a video converter tool.
  • •Issue: 'Upload failed' - Fix: Check your internet connection and try again. Ensure your file size does not exceed 128 GB.
  • •Problem: 'Video processing taking too long' - Workaround: Reduce the video resolution or length and try uploading again.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your uploading experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + U (Windows) or Command + Shift + U (Mac) - Opens the upload dialog in the browser.
  • •Command line: Use tools like FFmpeg to batch convert videos before uploading.
  • •Hidden feature: Use YouTube Studio for advanced video management and analytics.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, always prepare your video content with SEO in mind to maximize reach.