With over 2 billion monthly users, YouTube is the go-to platform for videos on nearly every imaginable topic, from educational content to entertainment, news and beyond. In 2023, it continues to rank as the second most popular website globally according to Statista, showing no signs of slowing down. One of the platform’s most powerful yet underrated features is its playlist functionality. Playlists allow users to curate video collections which ensures easy access to favorite content without searching or relying on the platform’s recommendation algorithm. If you’ve been wondering how to make a playlist on YouTube, you’re not alone.
Many users find the process straightforward but aren’t aware of the finer details and additional features, like collaborative playlists or privacy settings. This article provides a comprehensive guide on creating, managing and sharing YouTube playlists, from desktop to mobile devices, with essential tips and FAQs.
What is a YouTube playlist?
A YouTube playlist is a collection of videos grouped under a single name which makes it easy to watch a sequence of content on a related topic or theme without searching for each video individually. Think of it like a music playlist but for videos. Playlists can contain any number of videos and they automatically move from one video to the next which makes them ideal for binge-watching series, tutorials or thematic collections. You can organize playlists as public, private or unlisted and easily share them with others, depending on your needs.
A playlist can be tailored for personal use, shared with friends or even embedded into a website for a professional or academic purpose. Its versatility is why it remains one of the most used features on YouTube, especially among users looking to categorize and organize their favorite content.
Where to find the YouTube playlist?
Need help locating your saved playlists on YouTube? Here’s where to find them on both desktop and mobile, so you can access and manage your playlists anytime.
- On desktop: Open YouTube and log in. From the homepage, click on the “Library” in the sidebar on the left. Under the Library section, you’ll see “Playlists” listed which shows your created playlists and any saved playlists.
- On mobile: Open the YouTube app and after logging into it tap on “Library” or “You” at the bottom of the screen. Scroll down to view “Playlists” to see all saved and created playlists.
Why create a YouTube playlist?
The ability to organize and access certain video material without having to go through countless individual videos is just one of the many advantages of creating playlists. Here’s why many users choose how to make a playlist on YouTube to curate their video content:
Organization: Playlists help categorize and group videos by themes which makes them easier to navigate later.
Continuous playback: YouTube playlists allow for uninterrupted viewing which moves from one video to the next automatically.
Enhanced discoverability: For content creators, playlists improve a channel’s organization and can help attract more views as they often appear in YouTube’s search results.
Personal curation: Playlists let you save your favorite content in one place which is accessible anytime.
Social sharing: Playlists can be shared easily and provide friends or followers with a curated viewing experience.
How to make a playlist on YouTube? (Complete Guide Across Devices)
Creating a YouTube playlist is a straightforward process but varies slightly between desktop and mobile. If you’re looking into how to create a playlist on YouTube across multiple devices, then follow the steps below to set up your playlists for different devices.
How to make a playlist on YouTube from a computer?
To make a playlist on YouTube from a computer, follow these steps:
Step 1. Sign in to your account
Ensure you’re logged in to your YouTube account on your preferred browser.
Step 2. Find a video
Locate the video you want to add to a new playlist. Click on it to open the video page.
Step 3. Save the video
Below the video, click on the “Save” icon from the three-dot icon.
Step 3. Create new playlist
A pop-up will appear which allows you to select an existing playlist or create a new one. Click on “Create new playlist.”
Step 4. Name your playlist
Enter a name for your playlist that keeps it within 150 characters. Try to pick a title that’s descriptive and related to the content for easy recall later.
Step 5. Set privacy settings
Choose the visibility setting—Public, Private or Unlisted. Public playlists can be viewed by anyone while Private playlists are only visible to you. Unlisted playlists are accessible only to those with the direct link.
Step 6. Add videos
Click “Create” and your playlist will be created. You can add more videos to this playlist by repeating the “Save” process and selecting the newly created playlist.
How to create a playlist on YouTube mobile?
Making a YouTube playlist on a mobile device is equally simple and these steps guide you through the process of creating a playlist on YouTube right from your smartphone:
Step 1. Open the YouTube app
Ensure you’re signed in on the YouTube mobile app.
Step 2. Select a video
Find a video that you’d like to include in a playlist and open it.
Step 3. Tap on “Save”
Just below the video, you’ll see a “Save” option. Tap it to open a list of available playlists.
Step 4. Create new playlist
At the bottom of this list, tap on “+ New playlist.”
Step 5. Name and set privacy
Provide a name for your playlist and choose its privacy setting (Public, Private or Unlisted).
Step 6. Save and add videos
Tap “Create” and your new playlist is saved. You can add more videos by repeating these steps and selecting the playlist you just created.
How do I delete a playlist on YouTube?
If you decide to delete a playlist, the process is quick and straightforward:
1. Access your playlist: Go to the “Library” tab on YouTube and locate the playlist you want to delete.
2. Open playlist options: Click or tap on the playlist title to open it. Once inside, look for the options menu (usually represented by three dots or ellipses).
3. Delete playlist: In the dropdown menu, select “Delete playlist.” Confirm your action and the playlist will be permanently removed.
Does deleting a YouTube playlist delete the video?
No, deleting a playlist does not remove the actual videos from YouTube. It only deletes the playlist structure which means the list of videos and the order they were saved in. The videos will still be available on YouTube and in any other playlists they’re included in.
Extra tips on YouTube playlist
Beyond basic playlist creation, YouTube offers additional features to enhance your playlist experience. Now that you know how to make a playlist on YouTube, here are some extra tips to manage your playlists effectively:
Can I create a collaborative playlist on YouTube?
Yes, YouTube allows users to create collaborative playlists. This feature is excellent for group projects, shared interests or themed playlists that multiple people contribute to. To make a playlist collaborative:
1. Open your playlist: Go to your Playlist section and click on the “View full playlist” and click on the 3 Dots (Menu) icon.
2. Invite collaborators: Look for the “Collaborate” option and toggle it on. You’ll get a unique link to share with friends or colleagues who you want to add videos.
3. Share the link: Only people with the link can add videos which ensures control over who collaborates.
How to add videos to an existing YouTube playlist?
Already have a playlist but want to add more videos? Adding new content is simple and ensures your playlists stay updated and relevant.
- Open video: Find the video you’d like to add.
- Click on “Save”: Choose the existing playlist from your options and the video will be added instantly.
How to make a playlist on YouTube Music?
Creating playlists on YouTube Music allows you to organize and enjoy your favorite tracks anytime. Follow these steps to build a music mix tailored to your taste.
- Open YouTube Music: Log in to your YouTube Music account.
- Select a song: Find a song and open it.
- Add to playlist: Tap on the three-dot menu next to the song and choose “Add to playlist.”
- Create a new playlist or add to existing: Choose “New playlist” if creating a new one or select an existing playlist.
For music enthusiasts, understanding how to make a playlist on YouTube Music can take your listening experience to a whole new level.
How to share a YouTube playlist with friends?
Sharing playlists is an easy way to spread content you love with others. Here’s how you can share your playlists across social media, email or direct links.
- Go to your playlist: Open the playlist you want to share.
- Click on “Share”: You’ll see a share icon with options to copy the link, share via social media or send through email.
Can everyone see my YouTube playlist?
By default, YouTube playlists are public but you have the flexibility to make them private or unlisted based on your preference. Public playlists are visible to anyone on the platform while private ones are accessible only to you. Unlisted playlists are viewable by anyone with a direct link.
How to set a YouTube playlist private?
Keeping your playlists private ensures only you or selected viewers can access them. Learn how to adjust privacy settings to control who can view your curated collections.
- Open playlist: Go to the playlist you want to make private.
- Click on “Edit”: Select the playlist’s privacy settings (usually under three dots or settings) and choose “Private.”
- Save changes: Confirm and your playlist will now be visible only to you.
Understanding the process of making a playlist on YouTube and setting it to private can be essential for maintaining control over who can see your content.
Should parents know their kids’ YouTube playlists?
Yes, parents should be aware of their kids’ YouTube playlists to ensure they’re watching age appropriate content. YouTube offers a vast range of videos which includes those that may not be suitable for younger viewers. Monitoring playlists helps parents safeguard their children’s viewing habits.
Using tools like FlashGet Kids, parents can review playlists and other activities without intruding on privacy. This parental control app allows you to check what’s being watched, set viewing limits and ensure content aligns with family values. Being proactive can help foster a safe and healthy digital environment for kids.
Final words
Creating playlists on YouTube offers an easy way to organize, share and revisit your favorite content. Now that you know how to make a playlist on YouTube, as well as manage privacy settings, collaboration options and device compatibility, you can fully customize your viewing experience.
And importantly, if you’re a parent, using parental control apps like FlashGet Kids can help create a safer digital space for your kids which gives you more control over what they can access. So go ahead, dive in, get creative and make the most out of YouTube!
FAQs
How many playlists can you have on YouTube?
YouTube doesn’t set a strict limit on the number of playlists you can create, so feel free to organize as many collections as you need. This flexibility is especially useful for those who categorize videos by topics, interests or purposes that allow easy access to vast content libraries.
What happens when you save a playlist on YouTube?
When you save a playlist on YouTube, it’s added to your Library under “Playlists” which makes it simple to access whenever you want. Saving a playlist lets you revisit the curated collection without needing to search for individual videos which ensures a convenient viewing experience.
