You can become eligible for some YouTube monetization features at 500 subscribers, but earning a share of advertising revenue currently requires 1,000 subscribers plus a separate watch-time or Shorts-view threshold. Neither number guarantees approval, and subscriber count alone does not determine how much you earn.
Current YouTube monetization thresholds
As of October 4, 2026, YouTube has two main entry points to the YouTube Partner Program (YPP). The lower threshold can open specified fan-funding and Shopping features; the higher threshold is required for Watch Page ads, Shorts Feed ads, and YouTube Premium revenue sharing.
| Route | Subscribers | Additional activity | Potential access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded YPP | 500 | At least 3 valid public uploads in the last 90 days, plus either 3,000 qualified public long-form watch hours in the last 12 months or 3 million qualified public Shorts views in the last 90 days | Specified fan-funding and Shopping features, subject to their individual rules |
| Ad and Premium revenue sharing | 1,000 | Either 4,000 qualified public long-form watch hours in the last 12 months or 10 million qualified public Shorts views in the last 90 days | Watch Page ads, Shorts Feed ads, and YouTube Premium revenue, subject to program and feature rules |
The requirements and feature availability are set out in YouTube’s expanded YPP overview and its monetization options guidance. The watch-hour route and Shorts-view route are alternatives, not totals to combine. Shorts Feed watch time does not count toward the long-form watch-hour requirement.
What qualifies as watch hours or Shorts views?
The activity totals are limited to qualifying public content and specific measurement windows. YouTube explains the exclusions in its YPP eligibility guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- Complete Vlogging Kit: Designed for content creators, this kit includes a face-tracking tripod for iPhone, professional microphone, and dual LED lights. It helps with smooth, hands-free recording, clear audio, and professional lighting for high-quality content creation. Ideal for vlogging, live streaming, and social media videos
- 360° Face Tracking &Gesture Control: This AI-powered tripod for iPhone automatically centers your face in the frame, tracking your movements in real time. Perfect for vlogs, live streams, or memories, the phone tripod lets you start tracking with an "OK" gesture and stop with a "Palm" gesture, offering intuitive hands-free recording and ease of use
- Wireless Clip-on Microphone: This YouTube starter kit comes with two mics and a receiver, ensuring clear audio for vlogs and interviews. With a 2-hour charge, it delivers 12 hours of battery life. The receiver supports Type-C for iPhone 15+ and Android, and Lightning for iPhone 14 and earlier. Clip it on or hold it, recording wirelessly up to 79ft, perfect for TikTokers and content creators
- Adjustable Fill Light&Versatile Remote Control: Choose from Natural, Soft, or Warm lighting for the optimal brightness. More than a shutter, it works as a scrolling remote control for TikTok, page turner for iPad, and sends likes with a double press. Features fast Type-C charging, a 33ft range, and conveniently slots into the selfie stick for easy storage
- Flexible Angles&Enhanced Stability: The phone holder fits 4-4.7” devices, rotates 360°, and tilts 270° for ideal shots. Built from aluminum, it extends to 63 inches with a secure four-leg base. Content creator kit includes: selfie stick tripod*1, Led fill light*2, Remote control*1, Microphone Transmitter*1, Microphone receiver*2, Type-C charging cable*2, Storage bag*2, User manual*2
- Long-form watch hours: Count qualifying watch time on public long-form videos. Watch time from private, unlisted, or deleted videos; ad campaigns; Shorts; and livestreams that are unlisted, deleted, or not converted to video on demand does not count toward the stated threshold.
- Shorts views: Count qualifying views of public Shorts appearing in the Shorts Feed. Views of private, unlisted, or deleted Shorts, paid ad campaigns, and image posts in the Shorts Feed do not count.
- Promotions: YouTube says views and watch time generated by paid ad campaigns do not count toward YPP thresholds. It notes that organic follow-on views after promoted content may count.
What can you earn at 500 subscribers?
At 500 subscribers, a creator who also meets the activity requirements may apply for expanded YPP access to specified fan-funding and Shopping features. Depending on eligibility, available features can include channel memberships, Super Chat and Super Stickers, Super Thanks, and Shopping. The 500-subscriber threshold does not unlock ad revenue sharing by itself.
YouTube lists Watch Page and Shorts Feed advertising, YouTube Premium revenue, Shopping, memberships, Super Chat, Super Stickers, and Super Thanks among its ways to earn on YouTube. Each feature can have its own conditions, including age, country or region availability, channel status, and acceptance of applicable terms.
Rank #2
- 【Complete Vlogging Kit】This vlogging kit is designed specifically for content creators on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. The complete starter kit combines a selfie stick tripod, dual fill lights, a wireless mic, and a smart remote—professional essentials for vlogging, live streaming, interviews, and social media videos. As a one-stop mobile studio kit, it helps you effortlessly launch high-quality creation—shoot anywhere.
- 【Pro Dual-Mic Wireless System】This Plug-and-play wireless mic with studio-quality sound - no apps required. Perfect for vloggers and creators, with 12-hour runtime on 2-hour fast charge. The dual-interface receiver (Type-C/Lightning), it works seamlessly across iPhone & Android. With 79ft stable transmission range, move freely while maintaining crystal-clear audio. Your simplest pro audio solution.
- 【Detachable Fill Lights & Smart Remote】This content creator essential tripod with light features dual detachable mini LED fill lights, with 3 color modes (Warm/Cool/Natural) and 3 brightness levels to enhance low-light shots. Studio-grade lighting control lets it adapt effortlessly to diverse scenes and moods. Also included is a Bluetooth remote (33ft range) for wireless shutter control, plus Type-C rechargeability for on-the-go use.
- 【360° Rotating Aluminum Tripod】Crafted from premium aluminum alloy, this stable, versatile tripod is essential for content creators. Its 5-stage telescopic legs adjust 11.6–71 inches, and the universal phone holder supports 270° vertical tilt and 360° rotation for easy multi-angle shooting. A smooth 360° balance handle enables precise composition control. Use as a phone tripod stand or YouTube starter kit for vlogging, live streaming, and photography.
- 【Universal 1/4" Thread Tripod】The phone tripod included universal phone holder fits 4-4.7" devices, with a standard 1/4" thread compatible with cameras, GoPros, ring lights and other recording devices. This selfie stick features a compact design for easy portability. Content creator kit includes: selfie stick tripod*1, LED lights*2, wireless remote*1, mic transmitter*1, receiver*2, Type-C cable*2, storage bag*2, user manual*2
Why reaching the threshold does not guarantee monetization
YouTube reviews channels that meet the numerical requirements. Its eligibility guidance states: “No. Every channel that meets the threshold will go through a standard review process.” A channel must comply with monetization policies and complete the YPP signup steps, including linking an AdSense for YouTube account. An active Community Guidelines strike can prevent an application. YouTube also says it may remove monetization from a channel that has been inactive for six months or more.
Check the official YPP eligibility rules for the applicable policy and signup requirements. Country or region and feature availability matter, so a threshold is not a guarantee that every feature is available to every creator.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →What changes on February 1, 2027?
YouTube has announced a higher activity requirement, effective February 1, 2027, for new creators seeking YPP ad and Premium revenue sharing: 1,000 subscribers plus either 8,000 qualified watch hours in the preceding 365 days or 20 million qualified Shorts views in the preceding 90 days. YouTube says this change will not affect creators already in YPP. The announced 500-subscriber expanded-YPP thresholds for specified fan-funding and Shopping features remain, along with their activity requirements.
Rank #3
- All-in-One Vlogging Kit--This vlogging kit is designed specifically for content creators on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. The complete starter kit combines a selfie stick tripod, dual fill lights, a wireless mic, and a smart remote.Perfect for vlogging, live,streaming, and social media video creation. 💡After turning on the fill light, press the power button three times in succession to turn off the light.
- Dual Wireless Microphones for iPhone--This Plug-and-play wireless mic with studio-quality sound - no apps required. Perfect for vloggers and creators.This dual wireless lavalier microphone set built-in noise reduction chip.The dual-interface receiver (Type-C/Lightning), it works seamlessly across iPhone & Android. With 79ft stable transmission range, move freely while maintaining crystal-clear audio. Your simplest pro audio solution.
- Cell Phone Tripod with Detachable Wireless Re.mote --Selfie tripod with independent re.mote control.The re.mote control can be recharged in cycles, reducing b*attery replacement.The range of the wireless connection can be up to 33 feet/10 m. It quickly pairs with your phone, allowing you to operate the selfie stick by simply pressing the shutter button. Whether you need a close-up self-portrait or want to capture a wider landscape, this versatile tool has you covered.
- Camera Mount & Wide Compatibility Tripod --The 3 in 1 multifunctional portable tripod is versatile and compatible with various devices. It serves as both a selfie stick and a tripod, featuring a one-piece design with a fixed phone clip, 1/4 screw. This design allows for easy adaptation to mobile phones, lightweight cameras, GoPro, and more. Notably, you can install a GoPro HERO12 without the need for a separate Go.Pro adapter.
- Tripod for iPhone and Android--Ideal for various activities like online learning, makeup tutorials, and cooking demos. It fits most iOS/Android phones, compatible mit iPhone 17/16 Pro Max,17/16 Pro,iPhone 15, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max,iPhone 14, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max and various Hua.wei and Sam.sung Galaxy devices, allowing you to multitask and create content hands-free.
This is an announced future rule, not the ad-revenue eligibility rule in effect on October 4, 2026. YouTube’s notice is available under Changes to the YouTube Partner Program.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Subscriber count is not an income estimate
Meeting a YPP threshold establishes potential eligibility for particular monetization features; it does not establish a predictable income amount. YouTube’s published eligibility figures are not earnings estimates, and a subscriber count alone cannot tell you what a channel will make.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Full-set Vlogging Kit】Designed for content creator kit, this video blog kit includes: a smart auto-tracking AI tripod, fill light, professional microphone, and storage bag. It provides hands-free video recording, professional lighting, clear sound quality and neat storage, perfect for you to record professional vlogs, live broadcasts, interviews and social media videos.
- 【360° Rotation Auto Face Tracking Tripod】This automatic face tracking phone tripod has a built-in real-time artificial intelligence-driven AI camera that can automatic follow your movements and rotate in real time. This product can rotate 360° without dead angles, "OK👌" gesture to start following, "Palm🖐" gesture to stop following. Also equipped with a phone clip and magnetic attachment function, Provides hands-free video recording and easy to use.
- 【Magnetic Lavalier Microphone】This magnetic microphone kit includes one receiver and two microphones for professional-grade recording. The magnetic design allows for discreet microphone wearing, maintaining a clean look. Plug and play, no app installation required. A full charge takes approximately 2 hours and provides up to 12 hours of battery life. A recording distance of up to 66 feet makes it ideal for interviewers and content creators.
- 【Adjustable Fill Light】This content creator essentials is also equipped with two fill lights, which take about 2 hours to fully charge and can be used continuously for 6 hours. There are 3 colors of cool, natural and warm with 3 adjustable brightness to obtain the best lighting effect, which can meet the needs of shooting in various outdoor environments.
- 【Multi-Scene Use】This YouTube starter kit is designed for video bloggers, equipped with: face tracking selfie stick tripod*1, fill light*2, microphone transmitter*2, microphone receiver*1, Type-C charging cable*3, storage bag*2, user manual*2, suitable for making professional Vlog, live broadcast, interview, YouTube and Tik Tok videos, etc.
Rank #4
- 【3 in 1 Professional Wireless Lavalier Microphone】Wireless Lavalier Microphone comes with a 3 in 1 universal receiver, Mini Microphone compatible with android smartphones, iphone, camera etc.Plug and play, no adapters, Bluetooth or apps required, just plug the receiver into your device.press and hold the power button on both the microphone and the receiver and the two parts will connect automatically.
- 【Rechargeable LED Soft Light】Color temperature ranges from 3000K to 9900K, with brightness adjustable between 10% and 100%. Features a professional diffuser panel for uniform and bright light transmission, resulting in softer and more natural lighting effects. Built-in rechargeable battery with easy charging via USB port.
- 【Wireless Remote】Vlog Kit for iPhone and Android, featuring a wireless Bluetooth remote that pairs instantly with your phone for effortless use. This smartphone camera Vlog Kit frees your hands to effortlessly capture vibrant photos and videos, perfect for vlogging, video recording, YouTube, TikTok, and more.
- 【Adjustable Tripod】This iPhone vlogging kit tripod is suitable for handheld use or as a desktop tripod. It offers 5-level height adjustment and features a 360° rotating ball head for flexible angle control. Easily adjust the length to suit different scenarios, ensuring versatile functionality and portability.
- 【YouTube Starter Kit】Includes a high-quality wireless microphone, remote control, phone mount, adjustable desktop tripod with a ball head, and a rechargeable softbox light. This vlogging kit effortlessly elevates your video quality, making it easy to get started even if you're new to YouTube. Ideal for vlogging, interviews, live streaming, and more.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute
