YouTube Videos vs Facebook Reels: Which Pays More in 2025?
As content creation continues to dominate the digital landscape in 2025, creators are constantly comparing platforms to maximize their earnings. Two of the most talked-about options today are YouTube videos and Facebook Reels. But which one actually pays more? Let’s break it down.
1. YouTube Video Earnings
YouTube remains the gold standard for long-form video content and continues to reward creators generously through various monetization methods.
How YouTube Creators Earn:
- AdSense Revenue (ads shown before, during, or after videos)
- Shorts Ad Revenue Sharing
- Channel Memberships & Super Chats
- Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
YouTube CPM (Cost per 1,000 Views):
- CPM ranges from $1 to $20+, depending on niche and audience
- Average CPM for most channels: $3 to $5
YouTube Estimated Earnings per 1 Million Views:
| Content Type | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| Long-form Videos | $1,000 – $5,000+ |
| YouTube Shorts | $50 – $500 |
2. Facebook Reels Earnings
Facebook (Meta) introduced Reels to compete with TikTok and YouTube Shorts. It’s a short-form video platform that has grown rapidly and introduced various monetization methods.
How Facebook Creators Earn:
- Reels Play Bonus Program (invite-only)
- Ads on Reels (overlay or post-loop)
- Stars from Viewers (fans send virtual gifts worth $0.01 per star)
- Affiliate Links and Sponsorships
Facebook Reels CPM:
- CPM typically ranges from $0.10 to $1.00
- Much lower than YouTube’s CPM
Estimated Earnings per 1 Million Views:
| Monetization Type | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| Reels Ads | $100 – $1,000 |
| With Stars | Varies (fan support) |
| Reels Bonus | $200 – $35,000/month (if invited) |
3. YouTube vs Facebook: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | YouTube Videos | Facebook Reels |
|---|---|---|
| Average CPM | $3 – $5 | $0.10 – $1.00 |
| 1M Views (Earnings) | $1,000 – $5,000+ | $100 – $1,000 |
| Monetization Programs | Ads, Shorts, Memberships | Reels Ads, Stars, Bonuses |
| Content Length | Long-form & Shorts | Short-form only |
| Viral Potential | Medium to High | High |
| Global Reach | Very High | High (esp. mobile users) |
So, Which Platform Pays More?
In pure ad revenue per view, YouTube clearly pays more than Facebook Reels. If you can maintain long watch times and post regularly, YouTube is a more stable and lucrative platform.
However, Facebook Reels has:
- Higher viral potential
- Simpler editing and mobile posting
- Opportunities for bonuses and Stars which can boost your earnings if you have an engaged audience
✅ Final Thoughts
Both platforms have advantages. Here’s a quick tip:
- Use Facebook Reels to grow fast and reach a wider audience.
- Use YouTube for stable, long-term income from your loyal viewers.
Smart creators in 2025 are using both platforms—posting short clips on Reels and full videos on YouTube to maximize exposure and revenue.
