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TikTok vs. YouTube Shorts: Which Pays More?

TikTok and YouTube Shorts have become two of the biggest platforms for short-form video creators. Both offer incredible opportunities for going viral, building an audience, and monetizing your content. But when it comes to earnings, which platform pays more?

In this blog post, we’ll break down the payment systems for TikTok and YouTube Shorts, compare their monetization options, and help you decide which platform might be more lucrative for your content.

TikTok Monetization: How Does It Work?

TikTok offers several ways for creators to make money, but its direct payouts (like the Creator Fund) are relatively small. Here are TikTok’s main monetization options:

1. TikTok Creator Fund

The TikTok Creator Fund pays creators based on the number of views their videos receive.

• Payout Range:

TikTok pays approximately $0.02–$0.04 per 1,000 views. That means if your video gets 1 million views, you could earn around $20–$40.

• Eligibility:

• At least 10,000 followers.

• A minimum of 100,000 video views in the past 30 days.

• Consistent posting of original content.

2. Brand Sponsorships

Sponsorships are the most lucrative way to make money on TikTok. Brands often pay creators to promote products or services in their videos.

• Payout Range:

Depending on your niche, follower count, and engagement rate, sponsorships can pay anywhere from $100 to $10,000+ per post for top creators.

3. TikTok LIVE Gifts

During live streams, fans can send virtual gifts, which creators can convert into real money. While this method can be profitable, it depends on your ability to engage your audience live.

4. Affiliate Marketing and Product Sales

Many TikTokers promote affiliate links or their own products, earning commissions or direct sales revenue.

YouTube Shorts Monetization: How Does It Work?

YouTube Shorts provides creators with various monetization opportunities, including ad revenue sharing. Here are the main ways to earn money on YouTube Shorts:

1. Shorts Ad Revenue (2023 Update)

YouTube recently introduced ad revenue sharing for Shorts, allowing creators to earn money from ads displayed between Shorts.

• Payout Range:

YouTube Shorts CPM (Cost Per Mille) varies but typically ranges between $0.09–$0.12 per 1,000 views. This is significantly higher than TikTok’s Creator Fund payouts.

2. Brand Sponsorships

Like TikTok, YouTube Shorts creators can partner with brands for sponsorship deals.

• Payout Range:

YouTube sponsorships generally pay more than TikTok because brands see YouTube as a premium platform with a more engaged audience. Payouts range from $500 to $20,000+ per post, depending on your audience size and niche.

3. YouTube Premium Revenue

Creators earn a share of YouTube Premium subscription fees when Premium members watch their content. This revenue is small but adds to overall earnings.

4. Long-Form Content Integration

Creators on YouTube Shorts can direct viewers to their long-form videos, which earn higher ad revenue (CPMs of $2–$15 per 1,000 views). This integration allows creators to leverage Shorts to grow their main channel.

Content Lifespan Short (viral videos fade quickly) Long (videos remain discoverable)

Affiliate/Product Sales High potential with viral content High potential with niche content

Which Platform Pays More?

Ad Revenue

YouTube Shorts pays significantly more through ad revenue sharing, with CPM rates that can exceed TikTok’s Creator Fund payouts. If you get 1 million views on YouTube Shorts, you could earn $100–$120, compared to TikTok’s $20–$40.

Sponsorship Deals

Both platforms offer excellent opportunities for sponsorships, but YouTube often commands higher rates due to its reputation as a premium platform.

Content Longevity

Videos on YouTube Shorts can generate revenue for months or even years, while TikTok content typically loses traction within days. This makes YouTube Shorts a better option for long-term earning potential.

Audience Growth

TikTok is ideal for rapid growth and going viral, but YouTube Shorts allows creators to build a more sustainable audience by directing viewers to long-form videos or other monetized content.

Advantages of TikTok

• Easier to go viral, especially for new creators.

• Great for building a large follower base quickly.

• Strong potential for brand partnerships in niches like beauty, fashion, and fitness.

Advantages of YouTube Shorts

• Higher payouts through ad revenue sharing.

• Content has a longer lifespan and continues to earn money over time.

• Integration with long-form videos for additional revenue streams.

Final Verdict: Which Platform Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for higher direct payouts, ad revenue sharing, and long-term earning potential, YouTube Shorts is the clear winner. Its CPM rates are higher, and the ability to combine Shorts with long-form content offers creators more ways to monetize.

However, if your focus is on rapid audience growth and brand sponsorships, TikTok is an excellent platform to start. You can also repurpose your TikTok content for YouTube Shorts to maximize earnings on both platforms.

Pro Tip: Use both TikTok and YouTube Shorts strategically to reach a wider audience and diversify your income streams. By leveraging the strengths of both platforms, you can grow your brand and increase your earning potential.

Final Thought:

Whether you choose TikTok, YouTube Shorts, or both, success on either platform requires consistent, high-quality content that resonates with your audience. Experiment, track your earnings, and refine your strategy to maximize your income!