Average YouTube Video Length by Niche (2026)
There is no single ideal length — the right duration is the one that holds attention for your topic. Still, typical lengths cluster by niche, which is useful context when planning. The table lists estimated average long-form durations by niche for 2026.
Updated 2026-08-01 · Figures are for long-form uploads; Shorts are excluded except where noted.
| Niche | Typical length |
|---|---|
| Podcasts / interviews | 45 min – 2+ hrs |
| Gaming / playthroughs | 15 – 40 min |
| Education / tutorials | 8 – 20 min |
| Tech reviews | 8 – 18 min |
| Documentary / video essays | 15 – 40 min |
| Vlogs | 8 – 16 min |
| Cooking | 6 – 12 min |
| Fitness | 10 – 30 min |
| Beauty / fashion | 6 – 14 min |
| News / commentary | 4 – 10 min |
| Shorts-driven channels | under 1 min |
Methodology
Ranges are estimated from commonly observed durations across niches and rounded. Actual length depends on format, audience, and goals; longer is not inherently better. Optimize for retention, not a target duration. Estimates only.
More YouTube data
- YouTube CPM by Country (2026 Estimates)
- YouTube RPM by Niche (2026 Estimates)
- YouTube Engagement Rate Benchmarks (2026)
Run your own numbers with the YouTube Money Calculator and RPM Calculator.