YouTube End Screens: Definition, Benefits & Best Practices
YouTube End Screens are interactive elements that appear in the last 5–20 seconds of your video, guiding viewers to watch more content, subscribe, or visit a website. They boost engagement, watch time, and help creators and brands grow their channel.
What Are YouTube End Screens?
YouTube End Screens are clickable elements that creators can add to the final 5–20 seconds of their videos. They let you recommend other videos or playlists, prompt viewers to subscribe, link to approved websites, or even promote merchandise. Think of them as a mini call-to-action at the end of every video.
Why End Screens Matter for Brands and Creators
• Increase Watch Time: By guiding viewers to another video or playlist, you keep them on your channel longer, which signals YouTube’s algorithm to recommend you more often.
• Grow Your Subscriber Base: A clear “Subscribe” button at the end prevents viewers from clicking away without joining your community.
• Promote Products or Partnerships: DTC brands can link to their eCommerce store or a landing page, turning passive viewers into customers.
Real-World Examples
1. Influencer Collab: Sarah, a beauty influencer, wraps up her makeup tutorial with End Screens linking to her skincare routine video and a “Subscribe” prompt. Viewers who loved the tutorial stay on her channel to learn more, boosting both views and followers.
2. Small Brand Showcase: A boutique clothing label uses End Screens to send viewers from a lookbook video to a ‘Shop Now’ page. By turning interest into action, they drive direct traffic and sales.
Common Misconceptions
- Not the Same as Cards: Cards pop up anywhere during a video. End Screens only appear in the last chunk and offer more design flexibility.
- You Need 25 Subscribers: You don’t need a minimum subscriber count to add End Screens—just any active channel in good standing.
- They Hurt Watch Time: Done poorly, they can distract. But when used strategically, they actually increase overall channel watch time by encouraging more video views.
Variations and Best Practices
- Element Limits: You can add up to four elements—mix videos, playlists, subscribe buttons, and external links (if you’re part of the YouTube Partner Program).
- Templates vs. Manual Placement: Use YouTube’s templates for speed, or manually adjust each element to match your branding and video style.
- Thumbnails Matter: Make sure the thumbnails for your suggested videos are eye-catching and relevant to the content you just showed.
Practical Tips to Get Started
1. Plan Ahead: Decide which video or playlist you want to highlight before you hit publish.
2. Keep It Short: Limit your End Screen to 5–10 seconds to avoid overwhelming viewers.
3. Clear CTAs: Use action-oriented language like “Watch Next,” “Subscribe Now,” or “Shop Here.”
4. Test and Iterate: Experiment with different layouts and CTAs to see what drives the highest click-through rates.
5. Mobile First: Ensure all buttons are easy to tap on smaller screens.
YouTube End Screens are a free, built-in tool that can transform passive viewers into engaged subscribers, loyal customers, and repeat watchers. Start adding them to your next video and watch your channel growth accelerate!
