YouTube Shorts is one of the fastest-growing platforms for short-form video content, with over 50 billion daily views. Whether you're a beginner or experienced creator, this complete guide will show you how to upload YouTube Shorts from both desktop and mobile, with step-by-step instructions and best practices for 2025.
What Are YouTube Shorts?
YouTube Shorts are vertical videos up to 60 seconds long, designed to compete with TikTok and Instagram Reels. They appear in the dedicated Shorts feed, on channel pages, and in the main YouTube feed, giving your content maximum visibility.
YouTube Shorts Upload Requirements
Before uploading, ensure your video meets these requirements:
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (vertical) or 1:1 (square)
- Resolution: 1080x1920 (recommended) or minimum 1080x1080
- Duration: Up to 60 seconds maximum
- Format: MP4, MOV, or other standard video formats
- File Size: No strict limit, but under 10GB recommended
How to Upload YouTube Shorts from Mobile
The YouTube mobile app provides the easiest way to upload Shorts:
Step-by-Step Mobile Upload Process
- Open the YouTube app and tap the '+' button at the bottom
- Select 'Create a Short' from the menu
- Tap the gallery icon to upload an existing video (or record new)
- Choose your video file (ensure it's under 60 seconds and vertical)
- Add a title (60 characters max, include keywords like "YouTube Shorts")
- Write a description with hashtags (#Shorts #YouTubeShorts)
- Select visibility (Public, Unlisted, or Private)
- Choose whether it's 'Made for Kids' or not
- Tap 'Upload Short' and wait for processing
How to Upload YouTube Shorts from Desktop
Desktop uploading gives you more control over settings and editing:
Step-by-Step Desktop Upload Process
- Go to YouTube.com and sign in
- Click the 'Create' button (camera icon with +) in the top right
- Select 'Upload videos'
- Drag and drop your video file or click 'SELECT FILES'
- YouTube will auto-detect vertical videos as Shorts, or manually check 'This video is a Short'
- Add your title with relevant keywords (e.g., "How to Upload YouTube Shorts")
- Write a detailed description including hashtags and links
- Upload a custom thumbnail (1080x1920 or 1080x1080 recommended)
- Configure audience settings (age restrictions, paid promotion disclosure)
- Set visibility (Public/Unlisted/Private) and schedule if needed
- Click 'Publish' or 'Schedule'
Uploading to Multiple Platforms?
Instead of manually uploading to YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Instagram Reels, and other platforms separately, ShortSync lets you upload once and distribute everywhere. Save hours every week with automated cross-platform publishing.
Try ShortSync FreeYouTube Shorts Upload Best Practices
1. Optimize Titles and Descriptions
Use keyword-rich titles that tell viewers exactly what they'll see. Include phrases like "YouTube Shorts upload", "how to upload shorts", or "upload YouTube Shorts desktop". Keep titles under 60 characters for mobile display.
2. Use Custom Thumbnails
While Shorts auto-play in the feed, custom thumbnails appear on your channel page and in search results. Create eye-catching vertical thumbnails (1080x1920) with bold text and vibrant colors.
3. Add Relevant Hashtags
Always include #Shorts and #YouTubeShorts in your description. Add 2-3 niche-specific hashtags related to your content topic for better discoverability.
4. Upload on a Consistent Schedule
YouTube rewards consistency. Upload Shorts at the same time each day or week to train the algorithm and build audience expectations. Use YouTube's scheduling feature to maintain consistency even when busy.
Schedule Across All Platforms at Once
ShortSync's advanced scheduling lets you plan your content calendar across YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, and Snapchat Spotlight. Set it once, and ShortSync handles the rest.
Start Free TrialCommon YouTube Shorts Upload Errors (and Fixes)
Error: "Video Not Showing as a Short"
Fix: Ensure your video is vertical (9:16 or 1:1), under 60 seconds, and uploaded with the correct orientation. Re-upload if needed. On desktop, manually check "This video is a Short" during upload.
Error: "Upload Failed" or "Processing Stuck"
Fix: Check your internet connection, try a different browser, clear cache and cookies, or reduce file size. If the issue persists, wait a few hours as YouTube servers may be experiencing issues.
Error: "Copyright Claim" on Music
Fix: Use royalty-free music from YouTube Audio Library, or music that's licensed for commercial use. Remove copyrighted audio and replace with licensed tracks before uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best resolution for YouTube Shorts?
The optimal resolution is 1080x1920 (9:16 vertical). YouTube also accepts 1080x1080 (1:1 square) but vertical performs better in the Shorts feed. Minimum resolution is 1080x1080.
Can I upload YouTube Shorts from desktop?
Yes! Go to YouTube Studio, click Create > Upload videos, select your vertical video, and check "This video is a Short". Desktop uploading offers more editing controls and scheduling options.
How long can YouTube Shorts be?
YouTube Shorts can be up to 60 seconds (1 minute) long. Videos longer than 60 seconds will not be classified as Shorts.
Why is my YouTube Short not uploading?
Common issues include: wrong aspect ratio (must be 9:16 or 1:1), video too long (over 60 seconds), unsupported file format (use MP4/MOV), poor internet connection, or YouTube server issues. Verify your video meets all requirements above.
Start Uploading YouTube Shorts Today
Now you know exactly how to upload YouTube Shorts from both mobile and desktop, with all the best practices and troubleshooting tips you need. The key is to start creating, stay consistent, and optimize based on what works for your audience. For creators managing multiple platforms, consider using multi-platform upload tools to save time and reach a wider audience.
Upload to YouTube Shorts + 4 Other Platforms Simultaneously
ShortSync lets you upload to YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, and Snapchat Spotlight from one dashboard. Save hours every week on manual uploads.
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