Why cross-post from YouTube to Facebook?
Facebook has over 2 billion daily active users, and native video is one of its top-performing content types. While many creators share YouTube links on Facebook, this is the worst approach—Facebook deliberately suppresses external links to keep users on-platform. Native uploads are the way to go.
YouTube Specs
- Caption limit
- 5,000 chars
- Max hashtags
- 5
- Aspect ratios
- 16:9, 9:16
- Media formats
- MP4, MOV
- Max video length
- 12h
- Max file size
- 2000 MB
- Best times
- 2-4 PM, 6-8 PM
- Links in posts
- Yes
YouTube Specs
- Caption limit
- 5,000 chars
- Max hashtags
- 5
- Aspect ratios
- 16:9, 9:16
- Media formats
- MP4, MOV
- Max video length
- 12h
- Max file size
- 2000 MB
- Best times
- 2-4 PM, 6-8 PM
- Links in posts
- Yes
Facebook Specs
- Caption limit
- 8,000 chars
- Max hashtags
- 3
- Aspect ratios
- 16:9, 1:1, 4:5
- Media formats
- JPG, PNG, MP4, MOV
- Max video length
- 4 min
- Max file size
- 1000 MB
- Best times
- 9 AM - 10 AM, 3-4 PM
- Links in posts
- Yes
How to cross-post from YouTube to Facebook
- 1
Download your YouTube video
Download the video file from YouTube Studio or your local files. You need the actual file, not a YouTube link.
- 2
Upload natively to Facebook
Upload the video directly to Facebook as a native post or Reel. Never just share a YouTube link—Facebook deprioritizes external links.
- 3
Write a Facebook-optimized caption
YouTube descriptions are SEO-focused. Facebook captions should be conversational and community-driven. Ask questions to drive comments.
- 4
Choose between Reel and standard video
Short clips (under 90 seconds, vertical) work best as Facebook Reels. Longer content works as standard video posts.
- 5
Add a subtle YouTube mention
Mention "Full version on my YouTube channel" in the caption without including a link. Direct traffic through your bio or page info.
Formatting tips for YouTube to Facebook
Always upload natively
Facebook suppresses posts with YouTube links. Native video uploads get 10x more reach.
Facebook supports long videos
Facebook allows up to 240 minutes for video, similar to YouTube. But 3-10 minute videos perform best.
Use conversational captions
Replace YouTube SEO descriptions with Facebook-style questions and discussion starters.
Common mistakes to avoid
Sharing YouTube links on Facebook
Facebook intentionally reduces reach for YouTube links. Always upload video natively for 10x better performance.
Posting the full long-form video
Facebook audiences have shorter attention spans. Consider posting the best 3-5 minute segment rather than a full 20-minute video.
SEO-style descriptions on Facebook
Facebook is not a search engine. Replace keyword-stuffed descriptions with conversational, engaging captions.
Pro Tip
Post a short clip (1-3 minutes) from your YouTube video as a Facebook Reel, with "Full video on YouTube" in the caption. This teaser approach drives both Facebook engagement AND YouTube traffic.
Frequently asked questions
Should I share YouTube links on Facebook?
No. Facebook significantly reduces reach for posts with YouTube links to keep users on-platform. Download and upload your video natively to Facebook for 10x better engagement.
What video format does Facebook prefer?
Facebook supports MP4 and MOV in 16:9, 1:1, and 9:16 formats. Videos up to 240 minutes and 4GB. For Reels, use 9:16 vertical under 90 seconds.
Can I monetize YouTube videos on Facebook?
Yes, if you meet Facebook's monetization requirements. Upload natively and your Facebook videos can earn ad revenue independently of your YouTube channel.