Getting a custom YouTube channel URL has been completely transformed since the platform introduced handles in late 2022. The days of needing 100 subscribers and meeting various eligibility requirements are now behind us, replaced by a more straightforward system based on YouTube handles.
How YouTube handles work
Your YouTube handle, which starts with ‘@’, now determines your channel’s URL. For instance, if your handle is @YourChannel, your URL will be youtube.com/@YourChannel. This system makes channel URLs more memorable and consistent across the platform, allowing for easier channel discovery and sharing.
How to get your custom YouTube handle
Setting up your YouTube handle
To set up your YouTube handle you can either:
- Sign in to YouTube and go to YouTube Studio
- Select Customization from the left menu
- Look for the Handle section to view or change your handle
…or you can:
- Sign in to YouTube and go to YouTube Handle
- Click the Change handle button
YouTube handle requirements
- Must be 3-30 characters long
- Can only use letters, numbers, underscores, hyphens, and periods
- Must be unique
- Cannot resemble a URL or phone number
- Must comply with YouTube’s Community Guidelines
Can I change my old custom YouTube URL?
The previous custom URL system, which required 100 subscribers, a 30-day-old channel, channel art, and a profile picture, has been discontinued. If you had a custom URL under the old system (like youtube.com/c/username), it will automatically redirect to your new handle-based URL.
If you have an old custom URL (youtube.com/c/username), it’s important to note that these can no longer be modified or changed. While these URLs will continue to work and redirect to your new handle-based URL, the system for creating and managing custom URLs has been permanently discontinued and the only way to get rid of the old custom URL is to delete your entire channel.
Creating a strong YouTube brand starts with choosing the right handle – it’s your digital signature that appears in your channel URL and helps viewers find and remember you across the platform.
Tips and tricks for choosing the perfect YouTube handle
Choose a handle that’s short, memorable, and easy to pronounce. Avoid complex combinations of numbers or special characters that might confuse viewers or make your channel harder to find.
Your handle should reflect your content niche where possible. This helps with discoverability and makes it easier for viewers to understand what your channel is about.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Your handle should clearly reflect your channel’s content and brand identity. Avoid generic terms that could apply to numerous creators, as this makes your channel harder to find and remember. Also try to avoid handles that:
- Mix letters and numbers randomly
- Use multiple special characters
- Include difficult-to-spell words
- Require explanation when spoken aloud
Cross-platform consistency
Maintaining the same handle across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and other social platforms creates a cohesive brand presence. This consistency makes it easier for followers to find you everywhere you have a presence and strengthens your overall brand recognition.
Website alignment
Your YouTube handle should ideally match or closely relate to your website domain name. This creates a seamless brand experience when viewers move between your YouTube channel and website, reinforcing your brand identity across all digital touchpoints.
Readability
When your handle appears in comments, community posts, or channel recommendations, it should be instantly readable. Use underscores instead of periods if you need to separate words, as they’re more visible in YouTube’s interface.
SEO considerations
Your handle contributes to your channel’s searchability. Choose one that incorporates relevant keywords naturally, but avoid keyword stuffing that makes your handle look spammy.
Consistency matters
Maintain visual consistency across your channel elements, including your handle, channel name, banner image, and thumbnail designs. This cohesive approach helps build brand recognition and professionalism.
Future-proofing
Choose a handle that can grow with your channel. Avoid trends or current events that might date quickly, and consider how your handle will represent your brand as your content evolves.
Audience consideration
Your handle should resonate with your target audience while maintaining professionalism. Research your niche to understand what naming conventions work well and what your audience responds to.
And finally…
Remember, while you can change your YouTube handle later, building brand recognition takes time. It’s worth investing effort upfront to choose a handle that serves your channel’s long-term growth and brand strategy.
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