Your YouTube channel name is an important part of your brand and identity on the platform. As your channel evolves, you may find the need to change your channel name to better reflect your content. Fortunately, YouTube makes it easy to update your channel name. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to change your YouTube channel name, along with some best practices to keep in mind.
When to Change Your YouTube Channel Name
There are a few common reasons you may want to change your YouTube channel name:
- Your content focus has shifted – If your channel content evolves over time into something different than when you started, updating your name can help attract the right new subscribers.
- Your old name no longer fits your brand – As your channel matures, you may want your name to better reflect who you are and what your channel represents.
- You want to fix spelling errors or change formatting – Simple spelling fixes or changing from all caps to title case can improve your branding.
In general, there is no harm in changing your YouTube channel name if you feel your existing name is holding your channel back in some way.
How Often Can You Change Your Channel Name?
YouTube allows you to change your channel name up to 3 times every 90 days. Keep this limit in mind when deciding on a new name. YouTube also warns that changing your name can temporarily remove your channel’s verification checkmark if you had one.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Channel Name
Changing your YouTube channel name only takes a few minutes. Here are the steps:
On Desktop
- Go to YouTube Studio and click on your profile picture, then select “Your Channel”
- Click the “Customize Channel” button
- Select the “Basic Info” tab
- Click the edit icon next to your current channel name
- Enter your new desired channel name
- Click “Publish” to save your new name
On Mobile
- Tap your profile picture in the YouTube mobile app
- Select “Your Channel”
- Tap the edit icon next to your current name
- Enter your new name and tap “OK”
- Tap the checkmark icon to confirm the change
It may take up to a few days for the new name to propagate across YouTube, so don’t worry if it does not update instantly.
Best Practices for Your New Channel Name
When selecting a new YouTube channel name, keep these tips in mind:
- Stand out with a unique name – Find a name that is distinctive and not easily confused with other channels.
- Keep it short and simple – Long channel names can be difficult to remember. Ideally keep it under 20 characters.
- Incorporate keywords – Include relevant terms for your niche to help in YouTube Search rankings.
- Reflect your brand – Let your channel name communicate what you do and what makes your channel special.
- Remain consistent – Try to avoid changing your name too frequently, as this can confuse viewers.
The most important thing is choosing a YouTube channel name you will be happy with both now and in the long run as your channel continues growing.
What Happens When You Change Your Channel Name
When you change your YouTube channel name, here are some key things that will happen:
- Your channel URL will remain the same (youtube.com/channel/UC123)
- Existing subscribers will remain subscribed
- Your view counts remain the same
- Uploads and playlists will redirect to the new name
- Comments on old videos will still show your old name
So in general, nothing negative happens by changing your channel name – it is safe and all of your channel data remains intact. Just be aware it takes some time for the new name to fully roll out across YouTube.
Rebranding Your Channel After a Name Change
A name change is also a great opportunity to rebrand your YouTube channel:
- Update social media handles – Change your profile names where appropriate to match your new YouTube name.
- Refresh channel art – Consider updating your channel icon, banner, playlists, etc. to complement your new brand.
- Make an announcement video – Let your audience know about the change and what to expect.
Focusing on seamlessly transitioning subscribers over to your rebranded channel will ensure maximum retention.
Changing your YouTube channel name is simple to do, but take the time to pick a name you feel good about sticking with. This will set your channel up for long-term success as you continue growing your audience.
