To Short or Not to Short: Uploading a 2 Minute YouTube Video

The short answer is: you can, and probably should, upload your 2-minute video as a YouTube Short. As of an update in October 2024, YouTube Shorts can now be up to three minutes long, making your video eligible for this format. However, the decision to upload as a Short, a regular long-form video, or both, depends on your content and your channel’s goals.

The primary reason is discoverability. The Shorts algorithm is designed to push content to a wide audience, offering a significant opportunity for channel growth and reaching new viewers who might not otherwise find your content.

However, there are nuances to consider for different video styles and objectives.

The Case for YouTube Shorts (for a 2-minute video)

1. Increased Reach: The Shorts feed is a powerful discovery engine. Your 2-minute video has the potential to be seen by a vast audience, leading to a surge in views and new subscribers.
2. Mobile-First Audience: Shorts are designed for vertical, mobile viewing. If your 2-minute video is filmed in a vertical or square aspect ratio, it’s a natural fit for the Shorts player.
3. Potential for Virality: The fast-paced, algorithm-driven nature of Shorts can lead to your video going viral, bringing significant attention to your channel in a short period.

When to Consider a Regular YouTube Video

While a 2-minute video fits the Shorts format, there are scenarios where a traditional long-form upload might be more beneficial:

1. Horizontal Format: If your video is filmed in a standard horizontal (16:9) aspect ratio, it will be displayed with black bars in the Shorts player, which can be a less engaging viewing experience. In this case, a regular upload might be preferable.
2. Search-Driven Content: If your video is a tutorial, a review, or addresses a specific searchable topic, a regular video with a descriptive title, detailed description, and relevant tags will have better long-term visibility in YouTube’s search results.
3. Monetization: While both formats can be monetized, the revenue models differ. Regular videos offer more ad-placement opportunities (pre-roll, mid-roll, post-roll), which can lead to higher revenue for that specific video. Shorts revenue is pooled and distributed based on a creator’s share of total Shorts views.

The “Both” Strategy: A Cautious Approach

Uploading the exact same 2-minute video as both a Short and a regular video is generally not recommended and can be seen as duplicate content by YouTube. A more effective strategy is to create a compelling, shorter version of your 2-minute video (e.g., 30-60 seconds) to use as a Short that acts as a teaser or trailer for the full-length regular video. You can then link to the full video in the Short’s description or comments to drive traffic.

Best Practices for Your 2-Minute Video on YouTube:

• Format is Key: If you’re aiming for the Shorts feed, film and edit your video in a vertical (9:16) aspect ratio.
• Engage Quickly: The first few seconds are crucial for both Shorts and regular videos. Hook your viewers immediately to keep them watching.
• Clear and Concise: Even with a 2-minute runtime, ensure your content is well-paced and delivers its message effectively.
• Compelling Title and Thumbnail: A strong title and an eye-catching thumbnail are essential for attracting clicks, regardless of the format.

In conclusion, for a 2-minute video, leveraging the power of YouTube Shorts is a smart move for discoverability and audience growth. However, carefully consider your video’s format and long-term goals to make the most strategic decision for your channel.