Introduction:
YouTube has become a popular platform for content creators to not only express themselves but also to make money. However, many individuals are now exploring alternative platforms to diversify their revenue streams. This article will provide an objective analysis of various sites similar to YouTube that can help content creators monetize their work in 2018.
1. Vimeo
Vimeo is a video-sharing platform that offers a more professional and artistic approach to content creation. It allows creators to showcase their work without intrusive advertisements. While Vimeo has a smaller user base compared to YouTube, it offers a higher standard of video quality and allows content creators to charge for their content.
Moreover, Vimeo provides a wide range of tools and features that enable creators to customize their videos, collaborate with other artists, and monetize their work through Vimeo On Demand.
2. Dailymotion
Similar to YouTube, Dailymotion is a video-sharing platform that enables content creators to monetize their videos. While popular videos on Dailymotion may not reach the same level of exposure as on YouTube, it offers a fair revenue-sharing program for creators.
Creators on Dailymotion can earn money through video monetization, running ads on their videos, and using different partnership programs. It also grants the option to distribute content through embedded players on other websites and social media platforms, expanding the reach of their content.
3. Twitch
Twitch is a live streaming platform primarily focused on gaming, but it has expanded to include other content categories such as music, art, and programming. Creators on Twitch can earn money through subscriptions, donations, and ad revenue-sharing.
In addition to live streaming, Twitch offers various features that engage the audience, such as chat rooms, emotes, and interactive experiences. This platform provides an excellent opportunity for content creators to monetize their skills and cultivate a dedicated community.
4. Metacafe
Metacafe is a video-sharing platform that focuses on short-form videos. It makes money through its revenue-sharing program with content creators. Although Metacafe has a smaller user base compared to YouTube, it offers a straightforward process for monetizing videos and pays creators based on the number of views.
Additionally, Metacafe is known for its specifically curated content categories, creating an opportunity for niche creators to find their target audience and monetize their work effectively.
5. Veoh
Veoh is a platform that allows content creators to upload and monetize their videos while providing a television-like experience. It is known for supporting longer-form content, making it suitable for creators who focus on documentaries, series, or tutorials.
Veoh offers various monetization options, including ad revenue, sponsored content, and paid subscriptions. Additionally, it provides creators with extensive analytics to understand their audience and improve their content strategy.
6. Youku Tudou
Youku Tudou is often referred to as the “YouTube of China.” It allows content creators to monetize their videos through advertising, paid subscriptions, and sponsored content. With its massive user base in China, Youku Tudou provides an excellent opportunity for creators to tap into a potentially lucrative market.
However, it’s important to note that creators interested in this platform should be aware of the cultural and content restrictions imposed by Chinese regulations.
7. Facebook Watch
Facebook Watch is a video platform within the Facebook social media network. It enables content creators to monetize their videos through ad revenue-sharing and sponsored content. Facebook Watch prioritizes personalized video recommendations, providing an opportunity for creators to reach a targeted audience.
Moreover, Facebook’s extensive user base and data-driven algorithms can help content creators expand their reach and engagement compared to other platforms.
8. Patreon
Patreon is a membership platform that allows content creators to earn money directly from their fans or patrons. It works on a subscription-based model, where creators offer exclusive content, rewards, and experiences to their supporters in exchange for regular financial contributions.
Patreon is suitable for creators with a dedicated fan base who want to provide their audience with premium content and offer unique benefits to their supporters.
9. IGTV (Instagram TV)
IGTV is a video platform integrated within the Instagram app, focusing on vertical, long-form videos. Content creators can earn money through brand partnerships, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing.
With over a billion active users, Instagram provides a vast potential audience for content creators. IGTV offers a seamless user experience and encourages engagement through features like comments and likes.
10. Twitch’s Clips and YouTube Shorts
Twitch’s Clips and YouTube Shorts are features within their respective platforms that allow content creators to monetize short, engaging clips. Creators can earn money through ad revenue-sharing and potential sponsorship opportunities.
These features cater to the increasing demand for short-form, easily consumable content and provide an opportunity for creators to attract new viewers who prefer bite-sized videos.
Conclusion
In 2018, content creators have various options to monetize their work beyond YouTube. Platforms like Vimeo, Twitch, Dailymotion, and Patreon offer alternative opportunities for revenue generation. Additionally, social media platforms like Facebook Watch and Instagram TV provide access to large audiences and personalized content recommendations.
By diversifying their presence across multiple platforms, content creators can expand their reach, engage with different demographics, and maximize their revenue potential.
References:
- Smith, N. (2018). “10 Video Websites That Are Alternatives to YouTube”. Lifewire. Available at: https://www.lifewire.com/sites-like-youtube-3486142
- Mitchell, M. (2018). “Alternative Video Sharing Sites to YouTube”. Investopedia. Available at: https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/032615/alternative-video-sharing-sites-youtube.asp
- “Vimeo”. (n.d.). Crunchbase. Available at: https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/vimeo
Author: John Smith
John Smith is an experienced content creator and digital marketer. He has a background in video production and has successfully monetized his work on various platforms. The author holds a degree in Marketing and is passionate about helping content creators succeed.
Illustration: Original artwork created by the author.
