YouTube is the world’s second-largest search engine and a powerhouse for content sharing, with billions of videos watched daily. So, if you’re a brand with a vast presence on YouTube, a content creator, marketer, or casual user, sharing YouTube links is essential for reaching a wider audience.
However, long URLs can look cluttered and unprofessional, especially on social media, emails, and marketing campaigns.
Shortening a YouTube URL makes it cleaner, easier to share, and more clickable. In this guide, we’ll explore two simple ways to shorten YouTube links – using YouTube’s built-in short URL feature and a branded URL shortener like Replug. Let’s get started!
Branded Short Links
Create and track branded short links for your business for better conversions.
Brand Your Links Now!
Method 1: Using YouTube’s built-in short URL feature
This is the easiest and quickest way to shorten a YouTube URL directly from the platform.
Step 1: Find the video you want to Share
Step 2: Click the share button
Below the video, click the SHARE button. This will open a sharing options window.
Step 3: Copy the shortened URL
In the pop-up window, you’ll see a shorter version of the video’s URL. This link is much shorter and cleaner than the one in the address bar.
Simply click the “Copy” button to copy the shortened URL to your clipboard. And share it as you like.
Also read: How to add links to YouTube bio?
Method 2: Using Replug for branded short URLs
If you want a more professional and branded short URL that doesn’t look spammy or messy, you can use a URL shortener tool like Replug.
Shorten your links, amplify your brand.
Create shareable, trackable and fully customizable branded urls. Get more clicks with absolute link management features such as Bio Links, retargeting, deep Links, CTA’s and more.
Learn More!
Unlike the previous method, this advanced link shortener lets you customize URLs for your YouTube channel, Shorts, and videos, making them more memorable and trustworthy.
Getting started is simple:
Sign up for a free Replug account, or log in if you already have one, and start creating short, branded links in seconds!
Step 1: Copy and paste your URL
Once logged in, go to the Home page and paste the original YouTube URL into the provided “Quickly Shorten your link” field.
Click the arrow button, and a pop-up window will appear.
Step 2: Shorten your YouTube URL
Personalize your short link by adding a branded keyword or phrase to make it more recognizable. Then, click the checkmark, and your shortened YouTube link will be saved.
| Add UTM parameters (Optional) If you’re sharing the link for marketing purposes, you can add UTM parameters to track clicks and analyze performance. Replug makes it easy to add these parameters without manually editing the URL. |
Also read: How to Create UTM Links: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 3: Enhance your link with advanced features
Within the same pop-up window, you’ll find additional customization options, including:
- Link preview – Control how your link appears when shared.
- Password protection – Restrict access to select users.
- Link expiry – Set a time limit for link validity.
- Custom favicon – Add a branded icon to your link.
- A/B testing – Compare different versions for performance.
- Retargeting pixels – Track and retarget users who click your link.
Choose any of these features to maximize engagement and security.
Step 4: Copy and share your branded URL
Once you’ve customized your link, click “Save shortened link.”
Copy it and share this link directly with friends or post it on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Reddit, Blogger, Tumblr, or Pinterest.
Also read: How to Get a YouTube Vanity URL: Quick Guide
Conclusion
Shortening a YouTube URL is a simple process that can make sharing videos much easier. Whether you use YouTube’s built-in short URL feature or a tool like Replug for branded links, you’ll be able to share videos quickly and professionally. Choose the method that best suits your needs and start sharing your favorite content today!
FAQs on shortening YouTube URLs
Why should I shorten a YouTube URL?
Long YouTube URLs can look cluttered and unprofessional, especially on social media and in marketing campaigns. Shortening them makes links cleaner, easier to share, and more clickable.
Can I shorten a YouTube URL directly on YouTube?
Yes! YouTube has a built-in short URL feature. Simply click the “Share” button below a video, and YouTube will generate a shortened link that you can copy and share.
What’s the benefit of using a branded short URL with Replug?
Replug lets you customize your YouTube links with branded keywords, making them more recognizable, trustworthy, and engaging. It also provides tracking, retargeting, and link management features for marketers and businesses.
Can I track clicks on my shortened YouTube URL?
Yes! Replug allows you to add UTM parameters and access detailed analytics to track clicks, engagement, and campaign performance.
Where can I share my shortened YouTube URL?
You can share it anywhere – on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, etc.), emails, blogs, SMS, or even QR codes—to reach a wider audience.
