YouTube Alternatives: 10 Platforms to Check Out (Updated for 2024)

With the rise in video content consumption, many people are looking for alternative platforms to YouTube. You might want to use an alternative platform because you have privacy concerns, need different functionalities or just want to try something new.

In this blog post, we will discuss 10 different platforms that you can check out!

Why Use an Alternative Video Platform?

Here are a few of the reasons why you might want to use an alternative to YouTube:

Privacy

One reason could be privacy concerns, which are becoming an increasingly prominent issue today. YouTube has been known to collect data on its users and may even sell this information to advertisers, or at least use it to serve targeted ads.

While Google denies that it sells user data, YouTube still appeared in a Federal Trade Commission study that found social media companies like the video-streaming site are involved in massive surveillance of their users. So, if you’re concerned about your privacy, you might consider using a different platform.

Differing Functionalities

Another reason you might want to use an alternative video platform is because of the different functionalities they offer. Some platforms allow you to download videos for offline viewing, while others have built-in communities where you can interact with other users.

While YouTube’s functionality has grown over the years, it still doesn’t have all the features of some of its competitors. At the end of the day, different apps are better for different reasons, so you may want to play around with some alternatives to find one that best fits your needs.

Something New

Finally, you might just want to try something new! With so many options available, it’s worth exploring what else is out there.

What Does It Mean if a Video Platform Is Decentralized?

A decentralized video platform is not controlled by one entity. Instead, it is distributed across a network of computers. This means that the platform is more resistant to censorship and can’t be shut down by a single organization.

YouTube is centralized, so it keeps all videos on the company’s own servers. Many alternative video platforms are decentralized, which is one of their main attractions. When content spreads across a peer-to-peer network, the host organization has less reach when it comes to censoring videos. Considering how YouTube’s copyright system is a controversial topic, you may want to avoid the risk of your favorite videos going down by opting for a decentralized alternative.

Decentralization can also improve privacy, as no one place holds all users’ data. To be clear, this doesn’t mean all alternatives to YouTube are privacy safe havens, and you should always be careful around your information anywhere on the internet. However, you could find some extra peace of mind moving away from the centralized model.

Best YouTube Alternatives to Try

There are many great YouTube alternatives you can try. Here are nine of the best:

1. PeerTube

PeerTube is a decentralized alternative to YouTube based on the federated network of ActivityPub. Users can host their own videos while still being able to interact with other users on other servers.

2. BitChute

BitChute is a video hosting platform based on peer-to-peer networking, which means that videos are hosted by users instead of a central server.

3. NewPipe

NewPipe is an open-source alternative to YouTube that doesn’t require any Google Play Services. As a result, it’s a good choice for anyone without a Google account or users concerned about how the tech giant handles privacy. NewPipe also allows you to download videos for offline viewing and has a built-in player.

4. Vimeo

Vimeo is a video-sharing platform where users can upload and view videos. It is known for its high-quality videos and creative community.

5. VidLii

VidLii is another alternative video platform that allows users to view, upload and share videos. It has a simple user interface based on YouTube’s early design.

6. Dailymotion

Dailymotion is a video-sharing platform where users can view and upload videos. It has a large selection of videos and is available in 18 different languages.

7. LBRY

LBRY is a decentralized alternative to YouTube based on blockchain technology, which helps prevent malicious activity and keep things transparent while still maintaining privacy. It also allows users to earn rewards for their content.

8. DTube

DTube is another decentralized alternative to YouTube. This platform is based on the STEEM blockchain and allows users to upload, share and view videos.

9. MediaGoblin

MediaGoblin is an open-source alternative to YouTube. It focuses on the concept of federated media, which means that each user hosts their own content.

10. Joystream

Joystream is another decentralized site using blockchain technology. It offers a range of blockchain-powered features, including the ability to tokenize videos to distribute or sell them as NFTs.

The way Joystream relies on the blockchain means all power in how the website operates is in the hands of its users. Creators also have new ways to monetize their videos, so this could be a good option if you want to post content, not just consume it.

How to Pick the Platform That’s Right for You

Now that you know about some of the best YouTube alternatives out there, how do you pick the right one for you? Consider your needs and what you’re looking for in a video platform.

Are you looking for a decentralized network or open-source platform? Do you need certain functionalities, like offline viewing or multiple languages? Once you’ve considered these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose the right platform for you.

Shake up Your Video Routines

There are many excellent YouTube alternatives available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Consider your needs and try out a few different platforms to see which one is best for you.

Have you tried any of these alternative video platforms? Let us know in the comments below!

Original Publish Date 9/21/2022 — Updated 11/18/2024