What’s the first platform that comes to mind when you think about watching videos online?
YouTube, of course.
The site has become so ingrained in our vernacular that it’s hard to imagine a time when we couldn’t watch unlimited videos on demand. But YouTube is not alone – there are many other video-streaming sites like YouTube waiting for you out there, and they offer plenty of surprises as well.
And when we say “surprises,” you’ll understand in a second. We’re talking about websites like YouTube that are not only home to plenty of crazy, mind-blowing and funny videos that will crack you up or leave you scratching your head but also host some cool web series.
If you love streaming online videos, here are 21 sites like YouTube we suggest you check out:
#1: Vimeo
You probably already know about Vimeo, but here’s why you should give it a second look: Not only is it home to countless videos uploaded by everyday users just like on YouTube, it also features really cool short films and web series.
How It Works:
Vimeo is a video-sharing website in which users can upload, share and view videos. However, unlike YouTube, the site has a more selective approach to what it puts up for viewing since it focuses on quality rather than quantity.
Also known as “the indie filmmakers’ YouTube,” Vimeo’s content tends to cater to people who know their way around a camera and a storyboard. From short films to music videos and podcast s, Vimeo is a treasure trove for creatives who want to get noticed.
However, even if you’ve never picked up a camera before in your life or are just looking for fun videos to watch during your downtime, Vimeo’s content selection is so vast that we can almost guarantee you’ll find a video that catches your interest.
What to Expect:
Vimeo hosts all kinds of videos.
From video-game walkthroughs to short films and more, you’ll find it all on Vimeo.
The site features a “Staff Picks” tab that continually updates fresh content.
#2: Dailymotion
Not quite as popular as YouTube and Vimeo but equally as awesome, Dailymotion is the go-to destination for French videos.
However, this doesn’t mean that non-French speakers are left out in the cold – there’s also a second channel dedicated to English-speaking users. That means you can find both French- and English-speaking users uploading content.
How It Works:
Like YouTube, Dailymotion is an online video-streaming site that lets users upload and share videos on demand. Users can also create blogs to discuss their favourite videos with other viewers.
Dailymotion’s second channel dedicated to English speakers makes it a great alternative to YouTube.
What to Expect:
Dailymotion has a lot of content on offer.
Whatever it is that you’re looking for – funny videos, tutorials, how-tos or music clips – there’s bound to be more than enough content choices to keep you busy for hours on end.
The best part?
All of this content is high quality. Unlike YouTube, you won’t be stuck wading through endless low-quality videos (unless, of course, the uploader deliberately posted a low-quality video).
That aside, Dailymotion has something to offer in terms of content for every single one of its users.
You’ll find more than just videos on the site – there are also a ton of blogs where you can discuss your favorite videos, music, TV shows and more.
Pricing: Free
#3: Vevo
If it’s music videos you’re looking for, look no further than Vevo.
How It Works:
Vevo is a video-hosting website that allows users to upload and watch music videos. The site also has a “New Videos” section where users can discover new songs and related audio and video clips.
What to Expect:
Vevo is the best site out there for music videos and other audio clips.
It’s also a great way for artists and musicians to gain exposure, especially since it’s easy for viewers to like or comment on videos without necessarily leaving the website. Vevo is a site worth checking out if you’re a music junkie who enjoys watching music videos.
Pricing: Paid (trial is free)
#4: Vidme
Take YouTube, strip away the rules and restrictions and add a social media element to it, and what you get is Vidme, an online video-sharing platform for everyone.
How It Works:
Vidme is a relatively new video-sharing site that aims to be “a cross between YouTube and Reddit,” according to its founders. In short, it allows users to upload videos while also allowing them to vote and comment on videos uploaded by others. However, unlike YouTube, Vidme’s creators have struck a deal with the US Copyright Office that allows the site to let users upload copyrighted content without running into legal issues.
What to Expect:
Vidme is just YouTube but without all of the rules and restrictions.
The site lets you create an account and start uploading videos right away – no approval process.
Similarly, there are no restrictions on the types of videos you can upload. If it’s a video and not copyright-protected, then you can upload it to Vidme .
One other great thing about Vidme is that users can earn virtual coins through likes and comments. These coins can be used for various purposes, including buying perks or purchasing virtual gifts for other users.
Pricing: Free
#5: IGTV
Although currently in beta, IGTV is the newest addition to Instagram and arguably one of the best video-sharing sites.
How It Works:
IGTV lets users watch long-form videos ranging from 15 seconds to one hour.
What to Expect:
If you’re a fan of Instagram and the almost-too-perfect videos on your feed, then IGTV is the perfect site for you.
Best yet, you can log in using your existing Instagram account. No need to create another one for the site – just add in your email address (or Facebook login), and you’ll be good to go.
Pricing: Free
#6: Vidinfo
If you don’t like the way YouTube is designed, then give Vidinfo a try.
How It Works:
Like YouTube, Vidinfo allows users to upload videos and comment on and like what other users have uploaded.
What to Expect:
Vidinfo is the perfect alternative if you’re sick of YouTube and its complicated interface.
Pricing: Free
#7: Netflix
Unlike YouTube, Netflix doesn’t offer video hosting services. So what is it doing on this list?
Well, you can’t deny that Netflix is one of the best video-streaming sites out there – and with original series like Stranger Things, movies like Marvel’s The Avengers, and shows for kids like Trollhunters, there’s a lot to love.
How It Works:
Netflix is a video-streaming site that allows users to watch movies, aired TV shows, and other programs on the platform.
What to Expect:
Netflix provides shows and movies from various genres, so you’ll never get bored when you’re logged in.
That being said, Netflix isn’t just known for its original series ( Stranger Things, The Crown, Black Mirror ) but also for its vast collection of previously aired TV shows like Friends, Grey’s Anatomy, and The Office, among thousands of others.
Pricing: Paid (starting at $7.99/month)
#8: Sprout Video
Sprout video is a video-sharing site dedicated to digital marketers. It essentially allows video marketers to showcase their work and even display on-demand videos on their site.
How It Works:
For marketers, Sprout Video is the perfect place for sharing their products and services. Not only can companies upload their videos to share with the world, but they can also embed them on their sites for better visibility and engagement.
What to Expect:
In addition to hosting its video-on-demand library, the site also offers several tools for digital marketers, including Sprout Social Video (a tool that allows marketers to schedule tweets with video), a Facebook button and plugin that allows users to share videos on their sites, simplified video annotations, and so much more.
Pricing: Paid (starting at $99/month)
#9: Behance
Behance is an online platform for creative professionals. It allows anyone to showcase their work and even display on-demand videos on Behance’s site.
How It Works:
Behance is a fantastic place for creatives to share their work with the world while also promoting themselves as artists or producers.
What to Expect:
As you can probably tell, Behance puts the spotlight on creatives and artists alike. So if you’re a photographer, designer, illustrator, or somebody who designs products for businesses (like websites or apps), then this is the place to be.
What to Expect:
If you want your videos showcased in front of millions of eyes, upload them to this platform. Not only can you post your videos and show the world what you have to offer, but Behance also allows its users to share their work on social media or embed it into their website.
Pricing: Paid (starting at $59/month)
#10: TED
TED is a non-profit organization dedicated to spreading ideas and helping people acquire new knowledge. It provides talks and lectures from individuals from all walks of life (entrepreneurs, scientists, athletes, etc.) in video form.
How It Works:
You’ll find all kinds of videos on TED’s site, including TED talks, documentaries, and TEDx videos. Want to hear about how some of today’s most successful businesses were born? Well, you can find that on TED.
What to Expect:
TED is a thriving hub for knowledge seekers and people who are hungry for new information. There are a ton of talks from various speakers available on the site, so if you’re looking for inspiration or just want to expand your horizon, TED is the place to be.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#11: Twitch
If you’re a video game enthusiast, then Twitch is the platform for you. The site creates a live community where gamers can share their love of games with one another by streaming their gameplay sessions or catching up on others’ streams.
How It Works:
On Twitch, there are two types of users: broadcasters and viewers (or just “viewers”). Broadcasters stream their sessions online while viewers watch them (some even interact with the broadcaster).
What to Expect:
On Twitch, there’s a wide variety of games that can be streamed. So whether you’re looking for action-packed battles or just watching people play around in sandbox games like Minecraft, then Twitch is the place to be.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#12: Udemy
Udemy is a platform where people can create and take courses online on any topic they desire. Think of it as an e-learning site where you pay for courses you want to take.
How It Works:
Udemy’s courses are created by independent instructors who want to teach others about their craft or skillset. If you want to learn about a specific topic, then Udemy is the place for you.
What to Expect:
On Udemy’s website, you can choose from a wide variety of courses, including coding, design, photography, health and fitness, and even foreign languages. So if you want to learn how to code from somebody who knows what they’re talking about or follow a workout routine designed by a certified trainer, then Udemy is the place for you.
Pricing: Paid (varies based on course)
#13: Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is a video streaming website that allows users to watch their favourite TV shows and movies on demand. Most of the content available on the site is ad-supported, but you can find movies and TV shows without ads if you’re an Amazon Prime member.
How It Works:
You can catch up on old TV shows or watch the latest ones on Amazon Prime’s video library. If you want to check out a movie that’s still playing in theatres, still Amazon got you covered.
What to Expect:
On Amazon’s video library, there are tons of movies and TV shows available for streaming. So, if you’re looking for intense dramas, animated movies for the kids, or a good laugh, then Amazon is the platform for you.
Pricing: Free (limited access); paid (unlimited access).
#14: Flickr
Flickr is an image and video hosting website that lets users upload their content and share it with the world. It’s pretty much like Facebook and Instagram, but instead of just photos, you can upload videos too.
How It Works:
On Flickr, people can upload their images and videos for free. You don’t need a subscription or anything to access the site’s content. All you have to do is create an account, and that’s it. From there, you can start uploading content.
What to Expect:
On Flickr, you’ll find tons of images and videos that its users uploaded. So if you’re looking for pictures of your favourite TV show or the latest trending meme on Twitter, then Flickr is the platform for you.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#15: BrightCove
Bright is older than YouTube. Launched in 2004, it features a video platform that allows creators to upload their videos online for free.
How It Works:
On BrightCove, users can create an account (free of charge) by signing up with their email address and unique password. From there, they can start uploading videos under categories such as sports, entertainment, food, and more.
What to Expect:
On BrightCove, users can upload various types of videos on the platform. So if you’re looking for fitness-related videos, Hollywood films/TV shows, or funny clips on YouTube, then BrightCove is the place to be.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#16: Metacafe
Short clips are the new craze. People would rather watch quick video clips, like Vine and Instagram, instead of sitting through an entire movie. That’s where Metacafe comes into play.
How It Works:
Metacafe is a platform that allows users to upload short videos related to the latest news, sports event highlights, comedy sketches, and more. The website is free, so you don’t have to pay a dime to gain access to their content.
What to Expect:
On Metacafe, you can find various types of videos for your entertainment and pleasure. If you want to watch an NBA highlight video or watch a funny sketch by some of the biggest names in Hollywood, then Metacafe is the place to be.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#17: Wistia
Wistia is a video hosting website that allows users to upload, organize, and share their videos for free. It’s an all-in-one platform that provides support for its users when they upload their content.
How It Works:
On Wistia, there are three options for creating an account (namely, Free, Pro, and Enterprise). When you sign up for a free account, you’ll be given access to upload videos for free.
What to Expect:
On Wistia’s video platform, users can upload their content in one location and manage it from another. You don’t need multiple accounts to keep track of all your videos. Wistia does all the work for you.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#18: TikTok
TikTok is one of the fastest-rising social media apps (if not the fastest). It’s has a similar user interface as Likey. It’s, however, an independent platform that only features videos and music (no live stream).
How It Works:
On TikTok, you can sign up for a free account by following their simple registration process. Once you’ve done that, you can start uploading your videos right away to share them with the world.
What to Expect:
On TikTok, you’ll find a variety of videos that feature the latest talent on the platform. You can find short clips from singers, funny skits from comedians, and even movie trailers for your viewing pleasure. There’s something about TikTok that makes it stand out among the rest.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#19: FunnyOrDie
Funny or Die is a video-sharing website that features videos from some of the most popular artists in the world. You’ll find short clips, music videos, and sketches featuring top names in Hollywood, such as Emma Stone, Jennifer Lawrence, and more.
How It Works:
On FunnyOrDie, you can sign up for a free account by providing your email address and creating a unique password. Once you’ve done that, you can start uploading short videos to the website.
What to Expect:
FunnyOrDie features tons of videos for your viewing pleasure. You’ll also find funny video clips from Food Network, movie trailers for upcoming releases, and more.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#20: Hulu
You can’t include Netflix and Amazon Prime on such a list and forget Hulu.
Hulu was designed to be a video-sharing website that provides users with unlimited access to their favorite shows and movies. This online streaming service also features many of its original series, such as The Mindy Project, Quick Draw, and more.
How It Works:
On Hulu’s video platform, you’ll find an extensive library of videos, including popular TV shows and movies. You can sign up for a free account by providing your email address, or you can go premium for $11.99 per month to gain access to their library of content.
What to Expect:
On Hulu’s video-sharing website, you’ll find a gigantic collection of original series created and distributed by the company. It’s a mixture of exclusive online content and popular TV shows to keep you entertained for hours on end.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#21: Dtube
Dtube is a decentralized video-sharing platform that looks and operates a lot like YouTube. After all, it was created to be an alternative to YouTube, where its users can upload and share videos without relying on a centralized platform.
How It Works:
On Dtube, you can sign up for a free account by providing your email address, creating a username, and picking a password. Once that’s done, you’ll be allowed to upload your videos to the website.
What to Expect:
On Dtube, users can share their videos with the world. The only downside is that it’s difficult to get your videos noticed on this platform since many other videos are being uploaded every day. It’s a good idea to subscribe to some of the most popular channels on this video-sharing website if you want to gain even more exposure.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#22: IndaHash
If you’re looking for videos featuring popular products and services, then look no further than IndaHash. This website has been designed to allow users to find out about the latest trending advertisements and products. It’s like YouTube for ads.
How It Works:
You first need to sign up for a free account. However, you won’t be allowed to upload videos until you fill out a content brief.
What to Expect:
On IndaHash, users can watch popular advertisements and product features from companies around the world. When you get onto this video-sharing website, be sure to sort through the latest trending videos before browsing through their content library.
Pricing: Free (unlimited access)
#23: Veoh
Veoh is another video sharing website that was designed for users who want to stream and upload their own videos. The only difference is that a much larger company created it.
In 2005, Universal Tube & Rollform Equipment Corporation decided to create a platform that would allow their users to upload and share videos.
That way, Veoh was born.
How It Works:
On Veoh, you can sign up for an account by providing your email address. You’ll then be allowed to access the site’s full library of content, including popular TV shows, movies, channels featuring various games, and more.
What to Expect:
On Veoh, you can browse through a variety of videos all within one platform. The only downside is that it’s a bit difficult to get your videos noticed on this website because there are so many other professional videos posted. If you want even more exposure, be sure to promote your videos on social media channels.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid (unlimited access)
#24: Disney+
Disney+ is a video-sharing website created and designed for parents who want to find educational videos for their children. The company introduced this platform to help users discover new shows, movies, games, and more.
How It Works:
On Disney+, you can browse through a variety of original content made by the company. You can also watch Disney’s classic animated movies and TV shows with the rest of your family, making it an ideal platform for parents.
What to Expect:
On Disney+, you can stream ad-free content from various games, comics, sports programs, and more. The only downside is that some videos take a while to buffer before playing. If you want to view videos without interruptions, we recommend signing up for individual parts of the platform. You can subscribe to Disney+ and Hulu separately, as they do not offer a combined subscription plan just yet.
Pricing: Free (unlimited access)
#25: Curiosity Streams
Curiosity Streams isn’t your typical video-sharing website. Instead, it was created to give users access to documentaries that cover a wide variety of educational topics. Whether you want to learn about scientific subjects or the life and history of influential people, then this website got it covered.
How It Works:
To get started with Curiosity Streams, all you need is a verified email address. You’ll then be granted unlimited access to the website’s full library of videos, which you can stream at any time without having to pay a penny.
What to Expect:
On Curiosity Streams, users will find several educational documentaries covering topics they wouldn’t usually see on other streaming platforms, including science and history. The videos also feature an impressive showing of visuals and audio commentary to make the content more immersive.
Pricing: Free (unlimited access)
#26: WatchMojo
On WatchMojo, users are allowed to browse through a variety of videos covering several different topics. This website is perfect for individuals who want to learn about new and trending topics from all over the world.
How It Works:
You can sign up for a free account on WatchMojo by providing your email address. Once you’re signed up, you’ll be granted access to the website’s full library of content, including funny videos, movie trailers, TV clips, and more. What’s great about WatchMojo is that the website acts as a search engine, allowing users to find videos based on their specific keywords and interests.
What to Expect:
When using this platform, you’ll be introduced to various trending topics, including new movie trailers, video games, TV shows, and so much more. If you’re looking for a new source of content to watch, you’ll love what WatchMojo has in store.
Pricing: Free (limited access); Paid Option ($5/month)
#27: BlipTV
Blip TV is the longest-running video-sharing website on this list. It was designed to allow users to upload and watch videos on their channels. Although this platform was initially created for amateurs and professionals, it is now considered a more popular destination for media consumers rather than video creators.
How It Works:
To get started with BlipTV, you’ll need to create a free account by providing your email address and choosing a unique username and password. Once you’ve done that, you’ll be able to upload your videos to the website and share them with friends and family.
What to Expect:
On BlipTV, users can find a variety of content from other video creators in different niches. You can easily search through each channel using keywords or by looking for popular videos.
Pricing: Free (unlimited access)
#28: DaCast
DaCast is one of the more popular video-sharing platforms on this list. It was created for amateurs and professionals looking to host their videos online without paying a subscription fee.
How It Works:
To get started with DaCast, you’ll be required to first create an account by providing your name, email address, username, and password. Afterward, you’ll be able to upload your videos while sharing them through your channel on the site.
What to Expect:
On DaCast, users can find a host of video categories: entertainment, social media marketing, education, streaming events, business and finance, sports highlights & multi-camera productions, and more.
Pricing: Free (unlimited access); Paid options ($10/month and up)
#29 Crackle
Crackle is the exclusive streaming subscription service that comes as an add-on for Amazon Prime members. Although Crackle doesn’t have as large a library of videos as other websites, it does offer quality video content.
How It Works:
To get started on Crackle, you’ll need to sign up for a free account. Once you have an account, you can start browsing through the website’s library of videos covering different genres and filmmaking styles.
What to Expect:
On Crackle, users will find a unique selection of movies and TV shows that include popular titles like Jerry Seinfeld’s Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee and many more.
Pricing: Free (unlimited access); Paid options ($4/month or up)
Why YouTube Alternatives?
YouTube is the most dominating video streaming site, and it’s for a good reason. People from all walks of life use YouTube to share their videos like exercise videos, with the world. However, there are several reasons you might want to look for an alternative. For example:
- Privacy Reasons: Sometimes, you just want privacy. If you have personal videos that you don’t want people to find on YouTube, you might find it helpful to watch them from a YouTube alternative site.
- Limited Space: Another reason you might need an alternative is the limited storage space that comes with YouTube. If you already maxed out your storage limit, switching to an alternative might be one of the few options you have.
- Broaden Your Horizon: On YouTube, you’re always going to see the same videos across different channels. For some people, it might get boring after a while, so switching to a different video website can open up your horizon for other even more interesting videos.