Best 9 Video Monetization Platforms for 2024

By Q2 2023, online videos had reached 92.3% of internet users worldwide, with the most popular genres being music videos, comedies, viral content, and tutorial or how-to videos.

At the time, I was already creating videos for my YouTube channel, online courses, and clients. At the time, it was all experimental.

This year though, things are picking up. EVERYONE wants to create videos. That’s because people are simply starting to prefer video over written content for everything.

So the natural step for creators is to consider what options they have to monetize their video content. In this article, I’m exploring some of the best video monetization platforms and how they’ll help you, or potentially stall your growth when not picked correctly.

Platform	Main Features	Key Audience	Pricing
LearnWorlds	Advanced course authoring, digital products and memberships, interactive video creation	Course creators, Educators, businesses	Starter ($29/month), Pro Trainer ($99/month), Learning Center ($299/month), Learning Center + Mobile App ($598/month)
Vimeo	Ad-free viewing, privacy controls, collaboration tools	Indie filmmakers, professional content creators	(Free), Starter ($20/month), Standard ($33/month), Advanced ($108/month), Enterprise(custom)
Twitch	Streaming levels (Streamer, Affiliate, Partner), chat channels, subscriber badges and emotes	Gamers, content creators	Depends on your region, but we’re generally talking between $5-$10/month
YouTube	Various ad formats (skippable, non-skippable), targeting options, audience analytics	Marketers, businesses, content creators	Free to get started, but YouTube takes a 30% cut of the revenue generated from efforts such as channel memberships
Patreon	Customizable membership tiers, engagement tools, analytics	Creators of all types	Commerce: 5% platform fee, Pro: 8% fee, Premium: 12% fee
Dacast	Live stream recording, ad-free streaming, secure platform	Professional broadcasters, diverse sectors	Starter ($39/month), Event ($63/month), Scale ($165/month), Custom
Muvi	All-in-one OTT platform, white-label branding, multi-device support, flexible monetization	Businesses, content creators	Standard ($399/month), Professional ($1,499/month), Enterprise ($3,900/month), Ultimate (Custom)
Uscreen	Video hosting, built-in marketing tools, community features, flexible monetization	Course creators, fitness instructors, educators	Growth ($199/month), Pro ($599/month) Plus (Custom)
Brightcove	Enterprise-level features, global content delivery network, advanced analytics, extensive integrations	Large enterprises, broadcasters, marketers	No pricing available/Custom

Main Features	Key Audience	Pricing
LearnWorlds
Advanced course authoring, digital products and memberships, interactive video creation	Course creators, Educators, businesses	Starter ($29/month), Pro Trainer ($99/month), Learning Center ($299/month), Learning Center + Mobile App ($598/month)
Vimeo
Ad-free viewing, privacy controls, collaboration tools	Indie filmmakers, professional content creators	(Free), Starter ($20/month), Standard ($33/month), Advanced ($108/month), Enterprise(custom)
Twitch
Streaming levels (Streamer, Affiliate, Partner), chat channels, subscriber badges and emotes	Gamers, content creators	Depends on your region, but we’re generally talking between $5-$10/month
YouTube
Various ad formats (skippable, non-skippable), targeting options, audience analytics	Marketers, businesses, content creators	Free to get started, but YouTube takes a 30% cut of the revenue generated from efforts such as channel memberships
Patreon
Customizable membership tiers, engagement tools, analytics	Creators of all types	Commerce: 5% platform fee, Pro: 8% fee, Premium: 12% fee
Dacast
Live stream recording, ad-free streaming, secure platform	Professional broadcasters, diverse sectors	Starter ($39/month), Event ($63/month), Scale ($165/month), Custom
Muvi
All-in-one OTT platform, white-label branding, multi-device support, flexible monetization	Businesses, content creators	Standard ($399/month), Professional ($1,499/month), Enterprise ($3,900/month), Ultimate (Custom)
Uscreen
Video hosting, built-in marketing tools, community features, flexible monetization	Course creators, fitness instructors, educators	Growth ($199/month), Pro ($599/month) Plus (Custom)
Brightcove
Enterprise-level features, global content delivery network, advanced analytics, extensive integrations	Large enterprises, broadcasters, marketers	No pricing available/Custom

What is Video Monetization and Why Course Creators Should Care?

Video monetization is a process through which any creator can earn revenue from their video content. The type of content may vary and you can do this through various models, including ads, subscriptions, pay-per-view (PPV), affiliate marketing, and, my favorite, selling online courses.

The main goal is to turn video content into a consistent income stream by leveraging the audience’s engagement and willingness to pay for premium content or access.

The significant rise in platforms like Patreon, with searches increasing by 53% over the past five years, highlights a growing trend toward subscription-based models. Course creators who embrace video monetization are positioning themselves to tap into this evolving market and meet the changing preferences of content consumers.

But the benefits of monetizing video content don’t stop here. You can use video monetization platforms to:

• Establish authority and credibility in your creator niche
• Attract a larger target audience and open new doors for sponsorships and partnerships
• Incentivizes learners to stay engaged and loyal, increasing lifetime value, through exclusive video content through subscription models or memberships
• Diversify your income sources beyond just course sales

Criteria for Choosing a Video Monetization Platform

When selecting a video monetization platform, several key features and aspects should be considered to ensure it aligns with your goals and needs.

I always prioritize a solution that’s easy to use because it’ll save me a lot of time. I also like using tools where the seller’s customer support team is not just there to tell me what I could otherwise find in their support articles.

The best support professionals will help you set up things from scratch and even give you ideas on how to sell your video content. But what you
prioritize in terms of customer service is entirely up to you and your team’s needs.

But here’s the other important criteria I always look at:

• Revenue share: Evaluate the percentage of revenue the platform takes from your earnings. Higher revenue shares to creators mean more profit for you. Some platforms also have ad-based, subscription-based, or pay-per-view payment structures that influence your final earnings.
• Content ownership: Not proud of this but I’ve been on platforms where I gave them partial ownership of my content. Stay away from this and make sure you keep full ownership of your content as well as freedom over how and when you re-share your video content.
• Content monetization features: For a long time, YouTube for instance, only supported monetization through ads. They later added subscription and membership options while some platforms may offer built-in tools for affiliate marketing.
• Audience engagement: Most tools will have built-in community features like comment sections, forums, or live chat to engage with your audience. But you’ll want to make sure the features help with your exact use cases. When I was using Udemy to sell my courses, engagement options were limited to mere messaging and announcements.
• Legal and security practices: I can’t tell you how many times you get hit with false copyright claims on YouTube for no reason. And guess what? No one’s going to solve your case because the plaintiff is simply going to keep claiming content elements belong to them. Steer clear from this by first reviewing how the seller treats disputes and licensing issues.

LearnWorlds: My Top Choice

LearnWorlds is an AI-powered LMS platform designed for online learning and video monetization, offering a wide array of features to support course creators, educators, and businesses alike. At its core, the platform provides robust tools for course creation, including a built-in course and website builder that supports rich multimedia and interactive elements.

LearnWorlds excels in interactive video creation featuring a powerful Interactive Video Editor that allows creators to enhance their content with interactive components like quizzes and call-to-action overlays, subtitles, transcriptions, and many more.

The platform also boasts advanced analytics and video statistics, as well as strong e-commerce capabilities, enabling various subscription models and sales funnels to maximize revenue potential.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Interactive Video Editor
• Built-in course authoring with advanced learning features
• Marketing and sales features like payment gateways, email marketing, funnels, etc.
• White-label mobile app
• No-Code Website Builder
• Supports SCORM and HTML5 files
• AI Assistant course creation
• Exceptional customer support

Cons

• No free plan
• Doesn’t support TinCan and xAPI
• Steep learning curve for beginners

Pricing

LearnWorlds offers a 30-day free trial (no credit card required) and the following pricing options:

• Starter: $29/month
• Pro Trainer: $99/month
• Learning Center: $299/month
• High Volume & Corporate: Contact sales

*Pricing information retrieved from LearnWorlds in September 2024.

Twitch

Twitch is my go-to livestreaming platform but it’s important to note it’s primarily focused on certain industries such as video gaming, esports, and creative content. The platform’s main monetization avenues include affiliate and partner programs, subscriptions, virtual goods purchased by viewers to support creators, ads, sponsorships, and donations.

Pros

• There’s a huge user base you can reach
• Lots of revenue stream options
• Unbeatable community
• Structured support to help your channel grow

Cons

• Highly competitive
• Revenue sharing with Twitch can reduce earnings
• Achieving Affiliate or Partner status has hard-to-meet requirements

Pricing

Twitch has implemented a program that lowers subscription prices for viewers in most countries, with exceptions like the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Israel, and Japan. This adjustment is designed to make it easier for more viewers to support creators through paid subscriptions, helping them grow their communities.

However, because creator subscription revenue is tied to what viewers pay, earnings will adjust accordingly. This change applies to both paid and Prime subscriptions, though the revenue share for creators remains unchanged. Depending on the region, subscription prices typically range between $5 and $10 per month.

*Pricing information retrieved from Twitch in September, 2024.

YouTube

I’m a fan of YouTube because that’s where my audience is. My current go-to monetization option is sponsorships. But, YouTube – as one of the biggest social media channels today, offers diverse video monetization strategies for content creators, including the YouTube Partner Program (YPP); channel memberships; Super Chat, Super Stickers, and Super Thanks; merchandise selling; affiliate Marketing; and YouTube Premium Revenue.

Pros

• Room for any creator, regardless of industry
• Massive user base and a global audience
• Monetization methods that allow diverse earning opportunities
• Strong community-building and engagement features

Cons

• Competitive platform
• YouTube takes quite a big cut of your earnings
• Community guidelines and policies can be difficult to navigate
• Constantly changing content recommendation algorithms

Pricing

YouTube offers a free platform to get started, but it takes a 30% cut of revenue from monetization efforts like channel memberships. This means creators keep 70% of the revenue they generate through subscriptions and other monetized features. While there are no upfront costs to launch a channel, it’s important to factor in this revenue share when planning your monetization strategy.

*Pricing information retrieved from YouTube in September, 2024.

Vimeo

Vimeo is a versatile, high-quality video platform that supports various monetization models including SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand), TVOD (Transactional Video on Demand), and AVOD (Ad-Supported Video on Demand). This means creators can handle content management and host exclusive live events (even get paid for them!).

They’re one step ahead of YouTube, for example, by supporting the above subscription fee models besides the pay-per-view and branded apps. Creators can also use native promotional tools like free trials and exclusive access options to attract and retain viewers.

Pros

• High video quality
• Users don’t get video ads (ad-free viewing experience)
• You have a lot of video monetization models
• Creators can customize the video player

Cons

• Small audience size
• Monetization features are part of paid subscription plans
• Doesn’t work for content like tool reviews or viral videos

Pricing

Vimeo offers a range of pricing plans to fit different needs:

• Free: Provides basic video hosting with limited features and storage.
• Starter: At $20 per month, this plan offers enhanced customization, basic analytics, and more storage.
• Standard: For $33 per month, users get additional features like advanced analytics, higher storage limits, and options for monetization.
• Advanced: Priced at $108 per month, this plan includes extensive customization, advanced analytics, and priority support.
• Enterprise: Custom pricing for large organizations needing tailored solutions, including advanced features, dedicated support, and scalability options.

For Vimeo OTT, there is different pricing options available and to get more information you need to contact sales.

*Pricing information retrieved from Vimeo in September, 2024.

Patreon

Patreon is a popular video monetization platform that offers video creators multiple avenues for monetization. With its membership model, creators can create tiered subscription levels, providing premium video, and exclusive content (including podcasts, and books), or perks.

This is the most popular monetization model with Patreon, but you can also consider offering sneak peeks or early access to your content, engaging with your community through direct messaging and community posts, and selling merchandise.

Pros

• Flexible membership model
• Patreon Video allows creators to host and share exclusive video content
• Fewer constraints compared to algorithm-driven platforms

Cons

• Bringing your viewership from outside is a lengthy process
• There’s a lot of competition here too

Pricing

Patreon offers three pricing tiers for creators:

• Commerce: With a 5% platform fee, this plan allows creators to sell digital products directly on their page with ease.
• Pro: At an 8% fee, the Pro plan includes additional tools such as analytics and tier customization to help creators grow their membership base and manage their community more effectively.
• Premium: For a 12% fee, the Premium plan offers advanced features like dedicated account support, priority support, and extensive customization options, ideal for creators looking for a comprehensive set of tools to enhance their membership experience.

*Pricing information retrieved from Patreon in September, 2024.

💁 Check Patreon Alternatives

Dacast

Dacast is indeed strong as a video hosting platform for live streaming and monetizing videos. The wide range of monetization options to meet the diverse needs of content creators and businesses. Video creators can sell access to individual events or videos, with access to the platform’s integrated paywall. Dacast also supports pay-per-view subscriptions and allows monetization through ad revenue depending on the plan you choose.

Pros

• White-label video player to match your brand
• Password protection and IP restriction
• Detailed analytics for tracking views, demographics, and revenue
• Video API and high-performance content delivery network (CDN)
• Expo Video Gallery for immersive video experiences
• Payment gateways with support in multiple currencies

Cons

• High costs for smaller video creators
• Quality content distribution options are limited
• It doesn’t support older browsers and devices

Pricing

Dacast offers a tier pricing structure to accommodate different video streaming needs:

• Starter: At $39 per month, this plan includes basic features suitable for individuals and small businesses, such as standard live streaming and video hosting capabilities.
• Event: Priced at $63 per month, the Event plan adds features tailored for live events, including advanced analytics, more customization options, and increased storage.
• Scale: For $165 per month, the Scale plan provides extra features like higher-quality streaming, more extensive analytics, and phone support, making it ideal for larger operations with higher streaming demands.
• Custom: Offers tailored solutions and pricing for enterprises or specialized needs, providing flexible options based on specific requirements and scale.

*Pricing information retrieved from Dacast in September, 2024.

Muvi

Muvi is a comprehensive, all-in-one platform that allows businesses and creators to launch their own branded OTT (Over-The-Top) services, including websites, mobile apps, and TV apps without needing any coding skills. It provides everything from video hosting and content management to monetization and analytics, making it ideal for those looking to maintain full control over their streaming services.

Its flexibility in monetization models and white-label solutions make it a powerful option for businesses wanting to scale their video streaming operations across multiple devices.

Pros

• All-in-one platform
• DRM security
• Video monetization for video-on-demand (VOD) and live streaming
• White-label solution offering complete control over branding
• Multi-device support for Stream on web, mobile, TV, and gaming consoles
• Supports subscriptions, pay-per-view, and ad-based monetization

Cons

• High initial setup costs can be a barrier for smaller creators
• Complex interface and several features can be overwhelming for beginners
• Limited customization – advanced customization requires additional development
• OTT platform allows monetization and there are charges per subscriber/transaction

Pricing

Muvi has a 14-day free trial and comes in different packages, pricing models, and tiers.

The pricing for Muvi One which allows you to build streaming platforms, is subscription-based and is as follows for monthly packages:

• Standard: $399/month
• Professional: $1499/month
• Enterprise: $3900/month
• Ultimate: Contact sales

*Pricing information retrieved from Muvi in September, 2024.

Uscreen

Uscreen is a user-friendly video monetization platform that empowers creators to build and grow their video-based businesses without needing technical expertise. It’s particularly popular among educators, fitness instructors, and entertainment creators, offering a range of tools to deliver content and engage with audiences.

The platform stands out with its built-in marketing tools and community features, making it easier for creators to attract, retain, and interact with their audience while maximizing revenue through flexible monetization options. With it, users can make revenue from OTT video streaming services like Hulu or Netflix.

Pros

• Easy to set up and manage
• Built-in marketing tools (email marketing, sales funnels, and upselling options)
• Flexible monetization with subscriptions, one-time purchases, and rentals
• Community features e.g. live chat and community forums

Cons

• Design templates are limited in flexibility.
• Charges transaction fees on top of the subscription cost
• Primarily designed for on-demand content (less suitable for live streaming)

Pricing

Uscreen offers pricing packages that vary based on the number of video hours uploaded, live-streaming capabilities, and the number of admin users included.

• Growth plan: $199/month
• Pro plan: $599/month (includes one app – either Android or iOS)
• Plus plan: Custom pricing (with TV app)

For more advanced features, Uscreen provides premium options such as mobile and TV apps, dedicated customer support, white-label branding, and more, which can be added for an additional cost to further enhance functionality and reach.

*Pricing information retrieved from Uscreen in September, 2024.

💁 Check Uscreen Alternatives

Brightcove

Brightcove is a leading enterprise video platform designed for large-scale media companies, broadcasters, and marketers who require robust, high-quality video delivery with advanced analytics and wide distribution options.

Known for its powerful video hosting and delivery capabilities, Brightcove offers seamless integration with various marketing and analytics tools, making it ideal for companies needing to reach global audiences. Its enterprise-level features, including a global content delivery network, make it a great choice for those prioritizing quality and scale in their video strategy.

Pros

• Designed for large-scale video delivery with advanced capabilities
• Extensive integrations with a vast variety of marketing and analytics tools
• Features a global content delivery network ensuring high-quality streaming
• Reliable global coverage through a high-performance CDN
• Advanced security options with encryption and DRM
• In-depth insights into viewer behavior, engagement, and ROI

Cons

• Can be expensive for small businesses
• Requires technical expertise to fully leverage its capabilities
• Has limited monetization options

Pricing

There is no available pricing information for Brightcove. To get a quote, you need to contact sales.

Which Video Monetization Platform Will You Choose?

When picking a video monetization platform, weigh the key features that align with your own video content strategy and audience. Consider your revenue models (such as ad-based, subscription-based, or pay-per-view), and evaluate the platform’s ease of use, customization options, and integration with your existing tools. Security features, analytics capabilities, and audience engagement tools are also crucial for long-term success.

By prioritizing these factors, you can select a platform that not only maximizes your earnings but also enhances your viewers’ experience, ultimately supporting your growth as a content creator.

LearnWorlds remains exceptional for course creators looking to monetize their video content. Its comprehensive suite of tools is designed specifically for video-based learning.

This means you can take advantage of interactive elements like quizzes, questions, and annotations you can embed directly into the videos. The result? Higher learner engagement and more value added to the content.

Ready to use LearnWorlds to create and monetize your courses? Start your 30-day free trial today!

Further reading you might find interesting:

• How to Create and Sell Profitable Online Courses: Step-by-Step Guide
• Knowledge Economy: How to Sell Knowledge Online
• Why the Creator Economy Is Booming and How You Can Join In
• 183 Profitable Online Course Ideas With Examples
• Sell Digital Downloads: The Complete Guide for 2024
• How to Start a Profitable Online Course Business From Scratch
• How Much Money Can You Make Selling Online Courses?