There are two ways to get a YouTube video onto Facebook, and they behave very differently — one is instant but gets less reach, the other takes more effort but performs far better.
Option 1: Share the Link
- On YouTube, click Share and copy the link.
- Paste it into a new Facebook post.
- Facebook generates an embedded preview automatically — you can then delete the raw URL text for a cleaner post, and the preview stays.
This takes seconds. The catch: Facebook’s algorithm consistently favours video hosted on Facebook over links leaving the platform, so link posts reach noticeably fewer people. The video also plays in a smaller embedded player rather than filling the feed.
Option 2: Upload the File Natively
If you own the video, uploading the actual file to Facebook gets substantially better reach and autoplays in the feed.
- Get your original file — or download it from YouTube Studio > Content > three-dot menu > Download if it’s your own upload.
- On Facebook, create a post and select Photo/Video.
- Upload and publish.
Worth Adapting for Facebook
Facebook video autoplays muted, so most viewers see the first seconds without sound. Adding burned-in captions, and a hook that works visually, makes a real difference. Square or vertical crops also take more feed space than widescreen.
Copyright: The Part That Matters
Only upload video you own or have explicit permission to repost. Uploading someone else’s content natively — rather than sharing their link — is straightforward copyright infringement, and Facebook’s Rights Manager catches it routinely. Repeat infringement gets pages removed.
Sharing their YouTube link, by contrast, is entirely fine — that’s what the share button is for, and it credits the original creator.
Which Should You Use?
If your goal is driving YouTube views — watch time, subscribers, monetization — share the link, even with lower reach. Native uploads earn nothing on YouTube.
If your goal is reaching people on Facebook, upload natively and treat Facebook as its own platform. Many creators do both: native video for reach, with a link to the full YouTube version in the caption.
Sharing to Stories and Groups
The same link-sharing method works for Facebook Stories and Groups. Note that many Groups have rules against self-promotional links — worth checking before posting, since removal and bans are common.
FAQ
Does sharing a YouTube link count as a native Facebook video?
No. It plays in an embedded preview and gets less reach, since Facebook’s algorithm favours natively uploaded video.
Can I upload someone else’s YouTube video to Facebook?
Only with their explicit permission. Uploading someone else’s video natively is copyright infringement — sharing their link instead is fine.
Which method should I use to grow my YouTube channel?
Share the link. Native Facebook uploads earn no YouTube watch time, views, or revenue.
Should I change the video for Facebook?
Facebook video autoplays muted, so burned-in captions and a strong visual hook matter far more than on YouTube.