Securing Your Spatial Content: Mastering the Art of 360-Degree Video Filming & Uploading

360 Video Editors: How to Upload 360 Video to YouTube

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

360 degree videos have become incredibly popular on the Internet. Not only do they give people a complete look at a scene, but they also allow for a lot of artistic freedom. Those who are using VR-capable devices can get an even more immersive experience. It is why many content creators want to learn about the best 360 video editor they can use on their computers.

Here is a look at the 5 best 360 video converter and editor programs that you can use on your Windows or Mac computer.

• Part 1: 5 Best 360 Video Editor for You
• Part 2: How to Upload 360 Degree Videos to YouTube

Part 1: 5 Best 360 Video Editor for You

1. Movavi

Movavi is an affordable 360 degree video editor that makes it easy for you to create, edit and share these videos online. You can even add filters, titles and transitions to your videos, while soundtrack addition is also possible.

You can use the preview window in the program to see how your video will look if it is published as is. Plus you can use the software with both Windows and Mac, depending on the version that you download.

Pros:

• Works with all mainstream video formats
• Features support for 4K videos
• Includes color adjustment and picture in picture, even in 360 videos
• Speed adjustment capabilities

2. Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro CC is seen by many as the leading product that you can get if you want to edit high quality videos, including 360 degree content.

Any type of video format will be compatible. You should have no issues editing different segments of the content that you are creating, as Premiere Pro CC is known for having very efficient workflow screens.

Pros:

• Tools to adjust color, audio and graphics
• Works seamlessly with other Adobe apps
• Possible to create and edit content on the go using smartphones

3. After Effects

If you are attempting to add many unique graphics and transitions to your videos, then you will want to use Adobe After Effects. Most would recommend that be combined with Premiere Pro to get the best experience.

After Effects is ideal for adding introductions, end credits, transitions and other effects to the content that you have produced. You can use it to take the videos that you have created to the next level.

Pros:

• Support for movie titles, introductions, transitions and end credits
• Possible to animate logos and characters
• Works with Adobe Premiere Pro

4. Final Cut Pro X

Mac users who want to use their laptop or desktop to edit 360 videos will be happy to know that it is supported in Final Cut Pro X. It is one of the fastest and most powerful programs to use on a Mac, as it is completely optimized for the operating system and hardware.

It is possible to edit and playback 360 videos using a VR headset. It allows creators to not only put in great videos and edit them, but also see how they look after various adjustments.

Pros:

• Advanced color grading options
• Full HDR and 4K support
• View files with VR headset
• Optimized for Macs
• Includes free trial

Cons:

• Little bit expensive

5. Molanis VR

Molanis VR is ideal for anyone who wants to create 360 video that will look incredible when viewed through VR glasses. It is one of the most flexible software options, as it is inexpensive and includes many great features.

IT is possible to trim, cut and fade, include text and images, add effects and make other changes to videos on the fly. The software is intuitive to use, which is great for beginners who have not edited much in the past.

Pros:

• Support for 4K videos
• Options to add text, images and effects to videos
• Can manage color, correct horizon and stabilize 360 videos
• Includes a tree trial

Cons:

• Not as many tutorials on how to use the software compared to bigger brands

Part 2: How to Upload 360 Degree Videos to YouTube

It is possible to add 360 degree videos onto YouTube . Using YouTube to promote such content is sensible, as it is one of the largest streaming video platforms in the world. These videos can be seen on any of the major browsers and on certain mobile devices. But they must be uploaded from a desktop.

YouTube 360 Video Specification

The first step of the process is to create a video that YouTube will approve as a 360 submission. Such a video should be either 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, or 60 frames per second. Do not go any higher or it will not be approved.

It is also a good idea to have videos that are between 7168x3584 and 8192x4096 in resolution. Any lower and the quality of the video will not be good enough to provide a pleasant viewing experience to the audience.

How to Upload to YouTube

Now that you have your video edited, you are a step closer to uploading it onto YouTube. But there are some steps that you must follow . These include downloading the 360 Video Metadata app on your Mac or Windows device.

Then you will choose the file, check the Spherical box and save it. Make sure that 3D top-bottom is not checked when you save the file. The file should be created in the folder where the original was located. Now you can upload that file to YouTube.

Read More to Get : YouTube Video Dimensions/Size: Guide for Upload Settings

Conclusion

If you want to upload 360 video to YouTube or some other platform, using a 360 video editor is the way to go. The best 360 video converter and editor program will let you take the raw footage that you have shot and turn it into a stunning video that anyone can enjoy.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

360 degree videos have become incredibly popular on the Internet. Not only do they give people a complete look at a scene, but they also allow for a lot of artistic freedom. Those who are using VR-capable devices can get an even more immersive experience. It is why many content creators want to learn about the best 360 video editor they can use on their computers.

Here is a look at the 5 best 360 video converter and editor programs that you can use on your Windows or Mac computer.

• Part 1: 5 Best 360 Video Editor for You
• Part 2: How to Upload 360 Degree Videos to YouTube

Part 1: 5 Best 360 Video Editor for You

1. Movavi

Movavi is an affordable 360 degree video editor that makes it easy for you to create, edit and share these videos online. You can even add filters, titles and transitions to your videos, while soundtrack addition is also possible.

You can use the preview window in the program to see how your video will look if it is published as is. Plus you can use the software with both Windows and Mac, depending on the version that you download.

Pros:

• Works with all mainstream video formats
• Features support for 4K videos
• Includes color adjustment and picture in picture, even in 360 videos
• Speed adjustment capabilities

2. Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro CC is seen by many as the leading product that you can get if you want to edit high quality videos, including 360 degree content.

Any type of video format will be compatible. You should have no issues editing different segments of the content that you are creating, as Premiere Pro CC is known for having very efficient workflow screens.

Pros:

• Tools to adjust color, audio and graphics
• Works seamlessly with other Adobe apps
• Possible to create and edit content on the go using smartphones

3. After Effects

If you are attempting to add many unique graphics and transitions to your videos, then you will want to use Adobe After Effects. Most would recommend that be combined with Premiere Pro to get the best experience.

After Effects is ideal for adding introductions, end credits, transitions and other effects to the content that you have produced. You can use it to take the videos that you have created to the next level.

Pros:

• Support for movie titles, introductions, transitions and end credits
• Possible to animate logos and characters
• Works with Adobe Premiere Pro

4. Final Cut Pro X

Mac users who want to use their laptop or desktop to edit 360 videos will be happy to know that it is supported in Final Cut Pro X. It is one of the fastest and most powerful programs to use on a Mac, as it is completely optimized for the operating system and hardware.

It is possible to edit and playback 360 videos using a VR headset. It allows creators to not only put in great videos and edit them, but also see how they look after various adjustments.

Pros:

• Advanced color grading options
• Full HDR and 4K support
• View files with VR headset
• Optimized for Macs
• Includes free trial

Cons:

• Little bit expensive

5. Molanis VR

Molanis VR is ideal for anyone who wants to create 360 video that will look incredible when viewed through VR glasses. It is one of the most flexible software options, as it is inexpensive and includes many great features.

IT is possible to trim, cut and fade, include text and images, add effects and make other changes to videos on the fly. The software is intuitive to use, which is great for beginners who have not edited much in the past.

Pros:

• Support for 4K videos
• Options to add text, images and effects to videos
• Can manage color, correct horizon and stabilize 360 videos
• Includes a tree trial

Cons:

• Not as many tutorials on how to use the software compared to bigger brands

Part 2: How to Upload 360 Degree Videos to YouTube

It is possible to add 360 degree videos onto YouTube . Using YouTube to promote such content is sensible, as it is one of the largest streaming video platforms in the world. These videos can be seen on any of the major browsers and on certain mobile devices. But they must be uploaded from a desktop.

YouTube 360 Video Specification

The first step of the process is to create a video that YouTube will approve as a 360 submission. Such a video should be either 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, or 60 frames per second. Do not go any higher or it will not be approved.

It is also a good idea to have videos that are between 7168x3584 and 8192x4096 in resolution. Any lower and the quality of the video will not be good enough to provide a pleasant viewing experience to the audience.

How to Upload to YouTube

Now that you have your video edited, you are a step closer to uploading it onto YouTube. But there are some steps that you must follow . These include downloading the 360 Video Metadata app on your Mac or Windows device.

Then you will choose the file, check the Spherical box and save it. Make sure that 3D top-bottom is not checked when you save the file. The file should be created in the folder where the original was located. Now you can upload that file to YouTube.

Read More to Get : YouTube Video Dimensions/Size: Guide for Upload Settings

Conclusion

If you want to upload 360 video to YouTube or some other platform, using a 360 video editor is the way to go. The best 360 video converter and editor program will let you take the raw footage that you have shot and turn it into a stunning video that anyone can enjoy.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

360 degree videos have become incredibly popular on the Internet. Not only do they give people a complete look at a scene, but they also allow for a lot of artistic freedom. Those who are using VR-capable devices can get an even more immersive experience. It is why many content creators want to learn about the best 360 video editor they can use on their computers.

Here is a look at the 5 best 360 video converter and editor programs that you can use on your Windows or Mac computer.

• Part 1: 5 Best 360 Video Editor for You
• Part 2: How to Upload 360 Degree Videos to YouTube

Part 1: 5 Best 360 Video Editor for You

1. Movavi

Movavi is an affordable 360 degree video editor that makes it easy for you to create, edit and share these videos online. You can even add filters, titles and transitions to your videos, while soundtrack addition is also possible.

You can use the preview window in the program to see how your video will look if it is published as is. Plus you can use the software with both Windows and Mac, depending on the version that you download.

Pros:

• Works with all mainstream video formats
• Features support for 4K videos
• Includes color adjustment and picture in picture, even in 360 videos
• Speed adjustment capabilities

2. Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro CC is seen by many as the leading product that you can get if you want to edit high quality videos, including 360 degree content.

Any type of video format will be compatible. You should have no issues editing different segments of the content that you are creating, as Premiere Pro CC is known for having very efficient workflow screens.

Pros:

• Tools to adjust color, audio and graphics
• Works seamlessly with other Adobe apps
• Possible to create and edit content on the go using smartphones

3. After Effects

If you are attempting to add many unique graphics and transitions to your videos, then you will want to use Adobe After Effects. Most would recommend that be combined with Premiere Pro to get the best experience.

After Effects is ideal for adding introductions, end credits, transitions and other effects to the content that you have produced. You can use it to take the videos that you have created to the next level.

Pros:

• Support for movie titles, introductions, transitions and end credits
• Possible to animate logos and characters
• Works with Adobe Premiere Pro

4. Final Cut Pro X

Mac users who want to use their laptop or desktop to edit 360 videos will be happy to know that it is supported in Final Cut Pro X. It is one of the fastest and most powerful programs to use on a Mac, as it is completely optimized for the operating system and hardware.

It is possible to edit and playback 360 videos using a VR headset. It allows creators to not only put in great videos and edit them, but also see how they look after various adjustments.

Pros:

• Advanced color grading options
• Full HDR and 4K support
• View files with VR headset
• Optimized for Macs
• Includes free trial

Cons:

• Little bit expensive

5. Molanis VR

Molanis VR is ideal for anyone who wants to create 360 video that will look incredible when viewed through VR glasses. It is one of the most flexible software options, as it is inexpensive and includes many great features.

IT is possible to trim, cut and fade, include text and images, add effects and make other changes to videos on the fly. The software is intuitive to use, which is great for beginners who have not edited much in the past.

Pros:

• Support for 4K videos
• Options to add text, images and effects to videos
• Can manage color, correct horizon and stabilize 360 videos
• Includes a tree trial

Cons:

• Not as many tutorials on how to use the software compared to bigger brands

Part 2: How to Upload 360 Degree Videos to YouTube

It is possible to add 360 degree videos onto YouTube . Using YouTube to promote such content is sensible, as it is one of the largest streaming video platforms in the world. These videos can be seen on any of the major browsers and on certain mobile devices. But they must be uploaded from a desktop.

YouTube 360 Video Specification

The first step of the process is to create a video that YouTube will approve as a 360 submission. Such a video should be either 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, or 60 frames per second. Do not go any higher or it will not be approved.

It is also a good idea to have videos that are between 7168x3584 and 8192x4096 in resolution. Any lower and the quality of the video will not be good enough to provide a pleasant viewing experience to the audience.

How to Upload to YouTube

Now that you have your video edited, you are a step closer to uploading it onto YouTube. But there are some steps that you must follow . These include downloading the 360 Video Metadata app on your Mac or Windows device.

Then you will choose the file, check the Spherical box and save it. Make sure that 3D top-bottom is not checked when you save the file. The file should be created in the folder where the original was located. Now you can upload that file to YouTube.

Read More to Get : YouTube Video Dimensions/Size: Guide for Upload Settings

Conclusion

If you want to upload 360 video to YouTube or some other platform, using a 360 video editor is the way to go. The best 360 video converter and editor program will let you take the raw footage that you have shot and turn it into a stunning video that anyone can enjoy.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

360 degree videos have become incredibly popular on the Internet. Not only do they give people a complete look at a scene, but they also allow for a lot of artistic freedom. Those who are using VR-capable devices can get an even more immersive experience. It is why many content creators want to learn about the best 360 video editor they can use on their computers.

Here is a look at the 5 best 360 video converter and editor programs that you can use on your Windows or Mac computer.

• Part 1: 5 Best 360 Video Editor for You
• Part 2: How to Upload 360 Degree Videos to YouTube

Part 1: 5 Best 360 Video Editor for You

1. Movavi

Movavi is an affordable 360 degree video editor that makes it easy for you to create, edit and share these videos online. You can even add filters, titles and transitions to your videos, while soundtrack addition is also possible.

You can use the preview window in the program to see how your video will look if it is published as is. Plus you can use the software with both Windows and Mac, depending on the version that you download.

Pros:

• Works with all mainstream video formats
• Features support for 4K videos
• Includes color adjustment and picture in picture, even in 360 videos
• Speed adjustment capabilities

2. Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro CC is seen by many as the leading product that you can get if you want to edit high quality videos, including 360 degree content.

Any type of video format will be compatible. You should have no issues editing different segments of the content that you are creating, as Premiere Pro CC is known for having very efficient workflow screens.

Pros:

• Tools to adjust color, audio and graphics
• Works seamlessly with other Adobe apps
• Possible to create and edit content on the go using smartphones

3. After Effects

If you are attempting to add many unique graphics and transitions to your videos, then you will want to use Adobe After Effects. Most would recommend that be combined with Premiere Pro to get the best experience.

After Effects is ideal for adding introductions, end credits, transitions and other effects to the content that you have produced. You can use it to take the videos that you have created to the next level.

Pros:

• Support for movie titles, introductions, transitions and end credits
• Possible to animate logos and characters
• Works with Adobe Premiere Pro

4. Final Cut Pro X

Mac users who want to use their laptop or desktop to edit 360 videos will be happy to know that it is supported in Final Cut Pro X. It is one of the fastest and most powerful programs to use on a Mac, as it is completely optimized for the operating system and hardware.

It is possible to edit and playback 360 videos using a VR headset. It allows creators to not only put in great videos and edit them, but also see how they look after various adjustments.

Pros:

• Advanced color grading options
• Full HDR and 4K support
• View files with VR headset
• Optimized for Macs
• Includes free trial

Cons:

• Little bit expensive

5. Molanis VR

Molanis VR is ideal for anyone who wants to create 360 video that will look incredible when viewed through VR glasses. It is one of the most flexible software options, as it is inexpensive and includes many great features.

IT is possible to trim, cut and fade, include text and images, add effects and make other changes to videos on the fly. The software is intuitive to use, which is great for beginners who have not edited much in the past.

Pros:

• Support for 4K videos
• Options to add text, images and effects to videos
• Can manage color, correct horizon and stabilize 360 videos
• Includes a tree trial

Cons:

• Not as many tutorials on how to use the software compared to bigger brands

Part 2: How to Upload 360 Degree Videos to YouTube

It is possible to add 360 degree videos onto YouTube . Using YouTube to promote such content is sensible, as it is one of the largest streaming video platforms in the world. These videos can be seen on any of the major browsers and on certain mobile devices. But they must be uploaded from a desktop.

YouTube 360 Video Specification

The first step of the process is to create a video that YouTube will approve as a 360 submission. Such a video should be either 24, 25, 30, 48, 50, or 60 frames per second. Do not go any higher or it will not be approved.

It is also a good idea to have videos that are between 7168x3584 and 8192x4096 in resolution. Any lower and the quality of the video will not be good enough to provide a pleasant viewing experience to the audience.

How to Upload to YouTube

Now that you have your video edited, you are a step closer to uploading it onto YouTube. But there are some steps that you must follow . These include downloading the 360 Video Metadata app on your Mac or Windows device.

Then you will choose the file, check the Spherical box and save it. Make sure that 3D top-bottom is not checked when you save the file. The file should be created in the folder where the original was located. Now you can upload that file to YouTube.

Read More to Get : YouTube Video Dimensions/Size: Guide for Upload Settings

Conclusion

If you want to upload 360 video to YouTube or some other platform, using a 360 video editor is the way to go. The best 360 video converter and editor program will let you take the raw footage that you have shot and turn it into a stunning video that anyone can enjoy.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Advanced Techniques for YouTube Card Use

How to Use YouTube Cards and Annotations?

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

YouTube Annotations and Cards are both tools for linking viewers to your other videos or to off-YouTube webpages. Two of the major differences between them are:

Annotations are not clickable on mobile devices.

You cannot choose the size or positioning of Cards.

This article will teach you about both Cards and Annotations and discuss the best uses for each of them.

Part 1: Annotations

Annotations are messages that float overtop of your videos in the YouTube player. Usually, annotations are clickable and take users to other content created by you.

Section 1: Types of Annotations

There are five types of YouTube annotations:

Notes are colored boxes placed over the top of your videos.

Speech Bubbles look like dialogue boxes in a comic strip. They have tails that you can adjust so it looks like one of the people in your video is saying what is written in the annotation.

Spotlights have a subtle border and are completely clear inside. Your text only appears when a viewer’s cursor hovers over top of these annotations.

Labels are like spotlights except that viewers do not have to hover over them for your text to be visible.

Any of these annotations can be used to link viewers to other videos, or as subscribe links. You can also add a simple Title to your video through the Annotations menu.

Section 2: How to Use Annotations

*Note: the above video mentions Pause annotations, which are no longer available.

Here are two of the best uses for annotations:

Clickable End Cards / Outros

One of the best ways you can use spotlight annotations is to create clickable end cards for your videos.

When your video finishes playing the YouTube player will display a selection of suggested videos that might direct viewers away from your channel. You can keep more of these viewers watching your content by creating your own ‘suggested videos’ card and putting it at the end of your videos.

Put thumbnails of two or three of your other videos on your end card, or use ‘picture-in-picture’ to actually imbed footage from them. Then, after you upload your video, go in and place clickable spotlight annotations over top of your video thumbnails.

This is one use for annotations that cannot be duplicated with cards.

Promoting Your Videos

You should not wait until the end of your video to start linking viewers to other content. Many viewers will click away before they see your end card because your video is not exactly what they were looking for. By placing note or speech bubble annotations occasionally throughout your videos you can catch some of these people before they click off of your channel.

This works especially well if you link to videos on similar subjects to the one you are annotating.

Instead of just linking to another video of yours, try to link to that video on a playlist. Once a viewer is on a playlist your videos will auto-play after each other, which is good for both your view count and watch time.

You can also use the newer YouTube Cards for this, but Annotations might still be a better choice because viewers only need to click once vs. twice for Cards.

Try both and see which performs best for your channel. It might be in your best interest to keep on using both as they target different audiences – Cards are clickable on mobile devices, for example, but Annotations are not.

Part 2: YouTube Cards

YouTube Cards are newer than annotations and a lot of people believe they will one day replace Annotations. While there are benefits to Cards – like embedding images to represent your links – you cannot choose the shape, size, or placement of them. This means they have limited uses.

When viewers click on a Card they are shown additional information and a thumbnail representing the page they will be taken to if they choose to click again. This extra step could be either help viewers decide to click your links or give them a second chance to decide they would rather not.

Section 1: When to Use Cards

A linked Annotation is simply a call to action viewers can click on. A Card is a call to action as well, but instead of taking the viewer directly to where its link leads when it is clicked a Card opens up into a larger version of itself with a thumbnail image.

Crowdfunding pages (Patreon is a great choice for video creators), charity fundraising pages, and merchandise stores are all examples of links that benefit from the format of YouTube Cards.

When you link a viewer to a non-YouTube page you break up their session time, which negatively impacts your watch time and SEO ranking. You want to make sure that the viewers you are directing away from YouTube are the ones most likely to convert after they leave. By ‘convert’ we mean to contribute to your Patreon campaign, donate to the charity you are promoting, or buy some of your merchandise.

Giving viewers more information and a thumbnail through a Card can help ensure the most interested viewers are the ones clicking your links.

If you want to find a video editing solution that empowers your imagination and creativity yet takes less effort, please try this robust and user-friendly video editing software Filmora, which is equipped with its own footage stock Wondershare Filmstock and will definitely enhance your productivity and helps you to make money by making videos much easier.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

YouTube Annotations and Cards are both tools for linking viewers to your other videos or to off-YouTube webpages. Two of the major differences between them are:

Annotations are not clickable on mobile devices.

You cannot choose the size or positioning of Cards.

This article will teach you about both Cards and Annotations and discuss the best uses for each of them.

Part 1: Annotations

Annotations are messages that float overtop of your videos in the YouTube player. Usually, annotations are clickable and take users to other content created by you.

Section 1: Types of Annotations

There are five types of YouTube annotations:

Notes are colored boxes placed over the top of your videos.

Speech Bubbles look like dialogue boxes in a comic strip. They have tails that you can adjust so it looks like one of the people in your video is saying what is written in the annotation.

Spotlights have a subtle border and are completely clear inside. Your text only appears when a viewer’s cursor hovers over top of these annotations.

Labels are like spotlights except that viewers do not have to hover over them for your text to be visible.

Any of these annotations can be used to link viewers to other videos, or as subscribe links. You can also add a simple Title to your video through the Annotations menu.

Section 2: How to Use Annotations

*Note: the above video mentions Pause annotations, which are no longer available.

Here are two of the best uses for annotations:

Clickable End Cards / Outros

One of the best ways you can use spotlight annotations is to create clickable end cards for your videos.

When your video finishes playing the YouTube player will display a selection of suggested videos that might direct viewers away from your channel. You can keep more of these viewers watching your content by creating your own ‘suggested videos’ card and putting it at the end of your videos.

Put thumbnails of two or three of your other videos on your end card, or use ‘picture-in-picture’ to actually imbed footage from them. Then, after you upload your video, go in and place clickable spotlight annotations over top of your video thumbnails.

This is one use for annotations that cannot be duplicated with cards.

Promoting Your Videos

You should not wait until the end of your video to start linking viewers to other content. Many viewers will click away before they see your end card because your video is not exactly what they were looking for. By placing note or speech bubble annotations occasionally throughout your videos you can catch some of these people before they click off of your channel.

This works especially well if you link to videos on similar subjects to the one you are annotating.

Instead of just linking to another video of yours, try to link to that video on a playlist. Once a viewer is on a playlist your videos will auto-play after each other, which is good for both your view count and watch time.

You can also use the newer YouTube Cards for this, but Annotations might still be a better choice because viewers only need to click once vs. twice for Cards.

Try both and see which performs best for your channel. It might be in your best interest to keep on using both as they target different audiences – Cards are clickable on mobile devices, for example, but Annotations are not.

Part 2: YouTube Cards

YouTube Cards are newer than annotations and a lot of people believe they will one day replace Annotations. While there are benefits to Cards – like embedding images to represent your links – you cannot choose the shape, size, or placement of them. This means they have limited uses.

When viewers click on a Card they are shown additional information and a thumbnail representing the page they will be taken to if they choose to click again. This extra step could be either help viewers decide to click your links or give them a second chance to decide they would rather not.

Section 1: When to Use Cards

A linked Annotation is simply a call to action viewers can click on. A Card is a call to action as well, but instead of taking the viewer directly to where its link leads when it is clicked a Card opens up into a larger version of itself with a thumbnail image.

Crowdfunding pages (Patreon is a great choice for video creators), charity fundraising pages, and merchandise stores are all examples of links that benefit from the format of YouTube Cards.

When you link a viewer to a non-YouTube page you break up their session time, which negatively impacts your watch time and SEO ranking. You want to make sure that the viewers you are directing away from YouTube are the ones most likely to convert after they leave. By ‘convert’ we mean to contribute to your Patreon campaign, donate to the charity you are promoting, or buy some of your merchandise.

Giving viewers more information and a thumbnail through a Card can help ensure the most interested viewers are the ones clicking your links.

If you want to find a video editing solution that empowers your imagination and creativity yet takes less effort, please try this robust and user-friendly video editing software Filmora, which is equipped with its own footage stock Wondershare Filmstock and will definitely enhance your productivity and helps you to make money by making videos much easier.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

YouTube Annotations and Cards are both tools for linking viewers to your other videos or to off-YouTube webpages. Two of the major differences between them are:

Annotations are not clickable on mobile devices.

You cannot choose the size or positioning of Cards.

This article will teach you about both Cards and Annotations and discuss the best uses for each of them.

Part 1: Annotations

Annotations are messages that float overtop of your videos in the YouTube player. Usually, annotations are clickable and take users to other content created by you.

Section 1: Types of Annotations

There are five types of YouTube annotations:

Notes are colored boxes placed over the top of your videos.

Speech Bubbles look like dialogue boxes in a comic strip. They have tails that you can adjust so it looks like one of the people in your video is saying what is written in the annotation.

Spotlights have a subtle border and are completely clear inside. Your text only appears when a viewer’s cursor hovers over top of these annotations.

Labels are like spotlights except that viewers do not have to hover over them for your text to be visible.

Any of these annotations can be used to link viewers to other videos, or as subscribe links. You can also add a simple Title to your video through the Annotations menu.

Section 2: How to Use Annotations

*Note: the above video mentions Pause annotations, which are no longer available.

Here are two of the best uses for annotations:

Clickable End Cards / Outros

One of the best ways you can use spotlight annotations is to create clickable end cards for your videos.

When your video finishes playing the YouTube player will display a selection of suggested videos that might direct viewers away from your channel. You can keep more of these viewers watching your content by creating your own ‘suggested videos’ card and putting it at the end of your videos.

Put thumbnails of two or three of your other videos on your end card, or use ‘picture-in-picture’ to actually imbed footage from them. Then, after you upload your video, go in and place clickable spotlight annotations over top of your video thumbnails.

This is one use for annotations that cannot be duplicated with cards.

Promoting Your Videos

You should not wait until the end of your video to start linking viewers to other content. Many viewers will click away before they see your end card because your video is not exactly what they were looking for. By placing note or speech bubble annotations occasionally throughout your videos you can catch some of these people before they click off of your channel.

This works especially well if you link to videos on similar subjects to the one you are annotating.

Instead of just linking to another video of yours, try to link to that video on a playlist. Once a viewer is on a playlist your videos will auto-play after each other, which is good for both your view count and watch time.

You can also use the newer YouTube Cards for this, but Annotations might still be a better choice because viewers only need to click once vs. twice for Cards.

Try both and see which performs best for your channel. It might be in your best interest to keep on using both as they target different audiences – Cards are clickable on mobile devices, for example, but Annotations are not.

Part 2: YouTube Cards

YouTube Cards are newer than annotations and a lot of people believe they will one day replace Annotations. While there are benefits to Cards – like embedding images to represent your links – you cannot choose the shape, size, or placement of them. This means they have limited uses.

When viewers click on a Card they are shown additional information and a thumbnail representing the page they will be taken to if they choose to click again. This extra step could be either help viewers decide to click your links or give them a second chance to decide they would rather not.

Section 1: When to Use Cards

A linked Annotation is simply a call to action viewers can click on. A Card is a call to action as well, but instead of taking the viewer directly to where its link leads when it is clicked a Card opens up into a larger version of itself with a thumbnail image.

Crowdfunding pages (Patreon is a great choice for video creators), charity fundraising pages, and merchandise stores are all examples of links that benefit from the format of YouTube Cards.

When you link a viewer to a non-YouTube page you break up their session time, which negatively impacts your watch time and SEO ranking. You want to make sure that the viewers you are directing away from YouTube are the ones most likely to convert after they leave. By ‘convert’ we mean to contribute to your Patreon campaign, donate to the charity you are promoting, or buy some of your merchandise.

Giving viewers more information and a thumbnail through a Card can help ensure the most interested viewers are the ones clicking your links.

If you want to find a video editing solution that empowers your imagination and creativity yet takes less effort, please try this robust and user-friendly video editing software Filmora, which is equipped with its own footage stock Wondershare Filmstock and will definitely enhance your productivity and helps you to make money by making videos much easier.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

YouTube Annotations and Cards are both tools for linking viewers to your other videos or to off-YouTube webpages. Two of the major differences between them are:

Annotations are not clickable on mobile devices.

You cannot choose the size or positioning of Cards.

This article will teach you about both Cards and Annotations and discuss the best uses for each of them.

Part 1: Annotations

Annotations are messages that float overtop of your videos in the YouTube player. Usually, annotations are clickable and take users to other content created by you.

Section 1: Types of Annotations

There are five types of YouTube annotations:

Notes are colored boxes placed over the top of your videos.

Speech Bubbles look like dialogue boxes in a comic strip. They have tails that you can adjust so it looks like one of the people in your video is saying what is written in the annotation.

Spotlights have a subtle border and are completely clear inside. Your text only appears when a viewer’s cursor hovers over top of these annotations.

Labels are like spotlights except that viewers do not have to hover over them for your text to be visible.

Any of these annotations can be used to link viewers to other videos, or as subscribe links. You can also add a simple Title to your video through the Annotations menu.

Section 2: How to Use Annotations

*Note: the above video mentions Pause annotations, which are no longer available.

Here are two of the best uses for annotations:

Clickable End Cards / Outros

One of the best ways you can use spotlight annotations is to create clickable end cards for your videos.

When your video finishes playing the YouTube player will display a selection of suggested videos that might direct viewers away from your channel. You can keep more of these viewers watching your content by creating your own ‘suggested videos’ card and putting it at the end of your videos.

Put thumbnails of two or three of your other videos on your end card, or use ‘picture-in-picture’ to actually imbed footage from them. Then, after you upload your video, go in and place clickable spotlight annotations over top of your video thumbnails.

This is one use for annotations that cannot be duplicated with cards.

Promoting Your Videos

You should not wait until the end of your video to start linking viewers to other content. Many viewers will click away before they see your end card because your video is not exactly what they were looking for. By placing note or speech bubble annotations occasionally throughout your videos you can catch some of these people before they click off of your channel.

This works especially well if you link to videos on similar subjects to the one you are annotating.

Instead of just linking to another video of yours, try to link to that video on a playlist. Once a viewer is on a playlist your videos will auto-play after each other, which is good for both your view count and watch time.

You can also use the newer YouTube Cards for this, but Annotations might still be a better choice because viewers only need to click once vs. twice for Cards.

Try both and see which performs best for your channel. It might be in your best interest to keep on using both as they target different audiences – Cards are clickable on mobile devices, for example, but Annotations are not.

Part 2: YouTube Cards

YouTube Cards are newer than annotations and a lot of people believe they will one day replace Annotations. While there are benefits to Cards – like embedding images to represent your links – you cannot choose the shape, size, or placement of them. This means they have limited uses.

When viewers click on a Card they are shown additional information and a thumbnail representing the page they will be taken to if they choose to click again. This extra step could be either help viewers decide to click your links or give them a second chance to decide they would rather not.

Section 1: When to Use Cards

A linked Annotation is simply a call to action viewers can click on. A Card is a call to action as well, but instead of taking the viewer directly to where its link leads when it is clicked a Card opens up into a larger version of itself with a thumbnail image.

Crowdfunding pages (Patreon is a great choice for video creators), charity fundraising pages, and merchandise stores are all examples of links that benefit from the format of YouTube Cards.

When you link a viewer to a non-YouTube page you break up their session time, which negatively impacts your watch time and SEO ranking. You want to make sure that the viewers you are directing away from YouTube are the ones most likely to convert after they leave. By ‘convert’ we mean to contribute to your Patreon campaign, donate to the charity you are promoting, or buy some of your merchandise.

Giving viewers more information and a thumbnail through a Card can help ensure the most interested viewers are the ones clicking your links.

If you want to find a video editing solution that empowers your imagination and creativity yet takes less effort, please try this robust and user-friendly video editing software Filmora, which is equipped with its own footage stock Wondershare Filmstock and will definitely enhance your productivity and helps you to make money by making videos much easier.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Also read: