In recent years, content creators have been moving away from Facebook and embracing YouTube as their primary platform for sharing and monetizing their content. The shift is driven by several factors, including better monetization opportunities on YouTube, stricter content management on Facebook, and differences in platform support and transparency. Below, we explore why YouTube is increasingly seen as the better platform for creators, and how it compares to Facebook in key areas.

1. Monetization: YouTube Pays Better

One of the main reasons creators are leaving Facebook for YouTube is monetization. Simply put, YouTube offers better payouts for views than Facebook. For example, on YouTube, a creator can make significant earnings from just 100,000 views, whereas it often takes millions of views on Facebook to generate even a modest income.

YouTube’s Payment Structure:
YouTube monetization is primarily driven by ads through the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). Creators earn money based on ad impressions and click-through rates, making earnings more consistent and transparent. While YouTube’s RPM (Revenue Per Mille, or earnings per 1,000 views) varies depending on factors such as content type, audience demographics, and region, creators can generally expect anywhere from $1 to $10 per 1,000 views. This means that 100,000 views could potentially generate $100 to $1,000 in earnings.

Facebook’s Payment Structure:
In comparison, Facebook’s monetization model offers far less transparency and significantly lower payouts. According to recent reports, creators on Facebook can earn between $0 and $100 for a million views, a stark contrast to YouTube’s earnings. This disparity has been a huge source of frustration for creators who see their efforts generate substantial views but little to no income.

Example:
A Nigerian creator on YouTube who posts documentary-style content, like Lucky Udu, might earn several hundred dollars from 100,000 views. On Facebook, that same creator would need millions of views to see even a fraction of that income, making YouTube far more attractive for monetization.

2. Better Content Management and Appeal System on YouTube

Facebook has been criticized for indiscriminately taking down videos without offering specific reasons or opportunities to appeal. Creators often receive vague messages from Facebook stating that their content “may go against our guidelines,” listing general reasons such as discussions of self-harm, violence, or sexually explicit content. However, Facebook often fails to specify what part of the video violated guidelines, leaving creators in the dark.

YouTube’s Content Management:
YouTube provides creators with specific reasons when their content is flagged, and offers a clear appeal process. For example, if a video is demonetized or removed, YouTube will explain the violation in detail, whether it’s for inappropriate language, copyright infringement, or sensitive content. Creators then have the option to appeal the decision, and many creators report a more reasonable review process on YouTube than on Facebook.

Example:
If a creator posts a documentary on sensitive topics like mental health, YouTube is more likely to flag the exact timestamps where it believes the guidelines are breached, allowing creators to edit or appeal the decision. On Facebook, creators might receive a generic message that leaves them unsure of what content needs to be corrected.

No Clear Appeal on Facebook:
Facebook’s lack of an adequate appeal system is one of the key reasons creators are abandoning the platform. When a video is flagged on Facebook, creators are often left with only two options: delete the post or change the page admin. Unlike YouTube or TikTok, where appeals are more straightforward, Facebook’s lack of support in this area makes it difficult for creators to resolve issues and continue monetizing their content.

3. Rights Management: YouTube’s System is More Fair

Facebook’s Rights Manager has become notorious among creators for flagging content indiscriminately. Creators have complained about false copyright claims and a lack of transparency in how Facebook enforces its content protection rules.

YouTube’s Rights Management System:
YouTube’s Content ID system, while not perfect, is far more refined. It allows content owners to claim or block videos that infringe on their rights but also gives creators a clear process to dispute those claims. Creators can appeal claims, providing evidence that their content falls under fair use or that they have the necessary permissions. This system is especially important for creators who use clips of copyrighted material for commentary, education, or criticism.

Rights Manager on Facebook:
In contrast, Facebook’s Rights Manager is seen as overly aggressive and less forgiving. Many creators have had their content flagged without sufficient explanation, and disputes are difficult to resolve. This has deterred creators who rely on using third-party content responsibly as part of their videos.

4. Facebook’s Poor Customer Support vs. YouTube’s Creator Support

Another major reason creators are shifting to YouTube is the stark difference in customer support. Facebook has developed a reputation for poor customer service, especially when it comes to resolving monetization issues or content takedowns. Creators report long waits for responses, unclear guidance, and often no resolution at all.

YouTube’s Creator Support:
While not perfect, YouTube offers YouTube Creator Support, a more accessible system for helping creators resolve issues. YouTube also provides creators with detailed reports on their video performance and monetization, helping them understand why their videos were flagged or demonetized. YouTube’s support system, combined with its Creator Academy, provides tools and resources that help creators navigate the platform’s rules and maximize their earnings.

Example:
A creator who runs into issues with monetization on YouTube can contact support for detailed explanations or guidance. In contrast, on Facebook, creators often receive automated responses or find their support tickets ignored, leaving them frustrated and without resolution.

5. YouTube’s Growing Community and Opportunities

Despite YouTube’s competitive nature, with millions of creators vying for attention, the platform continues to offer strong growth opportunities. YouTube remains the go-to platform for video search, education, entertainment, and even long-form content, while Facebook’s emphasis on short-form content has driven many creators away.

Difficult to Get Views on YouTube, But Rewarding:
YouTube’s algorithm can be challenging to navigate, especially for new creators who may struggle to get views. However, once a creator gains traction, YouTube offers more sustainable income and growth opportunities. The platform’s focus on video search, recommendations, and community-building tools (like memberships and Super Chat) makes it possible for creators to build long-term careers.

Example:
While it may be harder to gain views initially on YouTube, once creators develop a niche and loyal following, they can expect more consistent earnings compared to Facebook. Many Nigerian creators who started small have grown to hundreds of thousands of subscribers on YouTube, making a living from ad revenue, sponsorships, and crowdfunding through platforms like Patreon.

Conclusion

Facebook’s monetization model is becoming increasingly frustrating for creators due to drastically reduced payments, vague content guidelines, and poor customer support. In contrast, YouTube offers better earning potential, more transparent content management, and a fairer system for rights management. While YouTube can be difficult to grow on initially, creators who stick with the platform often find it more rewarding in the long run. For many creators, the choice is clear—YouTube provides a better environment for sustained growth, earnings, and support, making it the preferred platform over Facebook.