Is it worth starting a Tech Youtube channel today?

In Ideas
Is it worth starting a Tech Youtube channel today?

Picture this: You’re sitting at your desk, surrounded by gadgets, gizmos, and a mountain of tech that would make Wozniak weep. You’ve got opinions on everything from the latest smartphone release to the intricacies of quantum computing. And then it hits you - why not share this treasure trove of tech knowledge with the world? Welcome to the wild west of tech YouTube, fellow creator!

Let’s face it, the tech space on YouTube is about as crowded as a Silicon Valley startup incubator. Everyone and their AI-powered dog seems to be unboxing the latest iPhone or explaining why this year’s processor is going to change everything. (Spoiler alert: It probably won’t.) But here’s the kicker - there’s still gold in them thar hills, if you know where to dig.

Remember when Linus Sebastian started out? He wasn’t born with a tech channel empire (Linus Tech Tips - YouTube). Back in 2007, he was just a guy working at a computer store, probably daydreaming about RAM upgrades during his lunch break. Fast forward to today, and Linus Tech Tips is pulling in millions of views faster than you can say “drop test.” The moral of the story? The tech YouTube space might be crowded, but it’s far from saturated.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But I’m not Linus! I don’t have his charisma/beard/ability to break expensive tech for views!” Well, newsflash: when Linus started, he wasn’t “Linus” either. He was just a tech enthusiast with a camera and a dream. Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing about the tech space on YouTube - it’s constantly evolving. Just when you think every niche has been covered, some new technology comes along and BAM! Suddenly there’s a whole new frontier to explore. Remember when VR was just a pipe dream? Now we’ve got channels dedicated to virtual reality fitness. Who saw that coming?

But here’s the million-dollar question (or should I say, million-subscriber question): How hard is it really to carve out your own space in this digital tech frontier? Well, buckle up, because in the next section, we’re going to take a hard look at the challenges you’ll face. And trust me, it’s not all unboxing videos and sponsorship deals.

So, are you ready to stake your claim in the great tech YouTube gold rush of the 2020s? Because let me tell you, the race is on, and the finish line is a moving target. But if you’ve got the passion, the knowledge, and a dash of that entrepreneurial spirit, there’s never been a better time to hit that record button.

Stay tuned, because we’re about to dive deep into the nitty-gritty of what it really takes to make it in the tech YouTube space. Spoiler alert: it involves a lot more than just knowing how to pronounce “gigahertz” correctly.

The Reality Check: Surviving the Tech YouTube Jungle

Alright, fellow creator, now that I’ve got you all fired up about starting your tech channel, it’s time for a cold shower of reality. Buckle up, because we’re about to take a bumpy ride through the obstacle course that is tech YouTube.

First things first: breaking into the tech space on YouTube is about as easy as explaining blockchain to your grandma. It’s not impossible, but you’re going to need a lot of patience, a gallon of coffee, and maybe a sacrifice or two to the algorithm gods.

Let’s talk numbers for a second. As of last year, there were over 51 million YouTube channels out there. Now, not all of these are tech channels, but a hefty chunk of them are. You’re not just competing with the big dogs like MKBHD or Unbox Therapy; you’re up against every kid with a smartphone and an opinion on the latest Android update.

Remember Marques Brownlee, aka MKBHD? He started his channel back in 2008 when he was just a high school kid with a passion for tech. His first videos were about as exciting as watching paint dry on a motherboard. But here’s the kicker - it took him six years to hit a million subscribers. Six years! That’s longer than most people keep their smartphones.

Now, I’m not telling you this to discourage you. I’m telling you this because if you’re going to survive in this jungle, you need to know what you’re up against. The tech YouTube space is like a never-ending arms race. Just when you think you’ve got the hang of it, someone comes along with a fancy new camera or a flashier intro, and suddenly you’re yesterday’s news.

But here’s the thing - it’s not all doom and gloom. The very nature of technology means there’s always something new to talk about. Remember when everyone thought the smartphone market was saturated? Then along came foldable phones, and suddenly there was a whole new genre of tech content.

The real challenge isn’t just creating content - it’s creating content that stands out. You can’t just regurgitate spec sheets and expect to build an audience. You need to bring something unique to the table. Maybe it’s your razor-sharp wit, your ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms, or your talent for finding the most obscure tech products on the planet.

Take Techmoan, for example. This guy built a whole channel around reviewing vintage and obscure tech. Who knew there was an audience for VHS players in the age of 4K streaming? But there is, and he found it.

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room - monetization. If you’re getting into tech YouTube thinking you’ll be rolling in sponsorship deals and ad revenue within a few months, I’ve got a bridge to sell you. The reality is, building a sustainable income from YouTube is harder than overclocking a potato. It takes time, persistence, and a whole lot of luck.

But here’s the silver lining - the barriers to entry have never been lower. You don’t need a fancy studio or top-of-the-line equipment to start. Heck, you can shoot, edit, and upload an entire video using just your smartphone. The playing field might not be level, but at least everyone’s allowed on it.

So, is it hard to get into the tech space on YouTube? You bet your last HDMI cable it is. But is it impossible? Not by a long shot. If you’ve got the passion, the knowledge, and the stubborn determination of a Windows Update, you’ve got a fighting chance.

In the next section, we’re going to look at some tech channels that didn’t just survive the YouTube jungle - they thrived in it. Get ready for some serious inspiration (and maybe a touch of envy). Because if they can do it, who’s to say you can’t?

Success Stories: Tech Channels That Cracked the Code

Now that we’ve waded through the swamp of reality, let’s climb up to the mountaintop and take a look at some of the shining beacons of the tech YouTube world. These aren’t just channels; they’re empires built on circuits and silicon. Let’s dissect their success and see if we can’t uncover the secret sauce.

Let’s start with the heavyweight champion of tech YouTube: Marques Brownlee, aka MKBHD. This guy started his channel when he was just 15, filming reviews with a webcam that probably had fewer pixels than a GameBoy. Fast forward to today, and he’s pulling in millions of views faster than you can say “4K HDR.” What’s his secret? Consistency, quality, and an uncanny ability to make even the most mundane tech seem sexy. MKBHD didn’t just ride the wave of smartphone reviews; he became the wave.

But maybe you’re thinking, “I can’t compete with MKBHD’s production value!” Well, let me introduce you to Dave2D. This guy built a channel with over 3 million subscribers using nothing but a desk, some tech, and his soothing voice. No fancy intros, no over-the-top personality - just straight-up, no-nonsense tech talk. Dave proved that sometimes, less really is more.

Now, let’s talk about pivoting. Remember when the iPhone was just a twinkle in Steve Jobs’ eye? That’s when iJustine started her tech journey. She began with Apple products but expanded her content to cover all sorts of tech and lifestyle topics. The lesson here? Adaptability is key. The tech world moves fast, and successful YouTubers move with it.

But what if you’re more into the nuts and bolts of tech? Enter Gamers Nexus. Steve Burke took deep dives into PC hardware and turned it into an art form. He didn’t just review products; he tore them apart, benchmarked them to within an inch of their lives, and called out manufacturers when they cut corners. The result? A fiercely loyal audience that trusts every word he says.

Now, let’s talk about niche domination. Louis Rossmann built an entire channel around MacBook repair. That’s right, he found his niche and dug in deeper than a tick on a bloodhound. He didn’t just show how to fix MacBooks; he became an advocate for right-to-repair, taking on Apple itself. The lesson? Sometimes, going narrow and deep is better than going wide and shallow.

But what about those who start later in life? Meet Paul’s Hardware. Paul Heimlich was in his 30s when he started his channel, proving it’s never too late to join the tech YouTube party. He combined his IT background with a friendly, approachable style to build a community around PC building and tech reviews.

The common thread among all these success stories? Passion, persistence, and a willingness to evolve. None of these channels became overnight sensations. They all put in the hard yards, weathered the storms of algorithm changes, and kept pushing forward.

But here’s the kicker - none of these channels are carbon copies of each other. MKBHD’s slick production is a world away from Dave2D’s minimalist approach. iJustine’s bubbly personality couldn’t be more different from Gamers Nexus’ technical deep dives. They all found their unique voice and style, and that’s what set them apart.

So, what’s the takeaway here? Success in the tech YouTube space isn’t about following a formula. It’s about finding your voice, carving out your niche, and being willing to adapt as the tech landscape changes. These channels didn’t just join the conversation; they started new ones.

In our next section, we’re going to explore how you can find your own niche in this vast tech ecosystem. Because believe it or not, there are still untapped goldmines out there in the world of tech content. It’s time to grab your pickaxe and start digging!

Finding Your Niche: Untapped Opportunities in Tech Content

Alright, tech enthusiast, it’s time to put on your explorer hat. We’re about to venture into the unexplored territories of the tech YouTube landscape. Forget about unboxing the latest iPhone - we’re looking for the content equivalent of vibranium here.

First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: yes, there are a gazillion tech channels out there. But here’s the thing - technology is evolving faster than a teenager’s social media habits. Every day, there’s a new frontier opening up, ripe for the taking.

Take AI, for instance. Everyone’s talking about ChatGPT, but who’s diving into the ethical implications of AI in healthcare? Or exploring how AI is changing the music industry? There’s a goldmine of content waiting for someone brave enough to tackle these complex topics in an approachable way.

Remember Veritasium? Derek Muller built an empire by explaining complex scientific concepts, often with a tech angle. He didn’t just regurgitate facts; he created mind-bending thought experiments that made viewers question reality. That’s the kind of niche thinking we’re after.

Now, let’s talk about the intersection of tech and other fields. Tech isn’t just about gadgets anymore - it’s infiltrating every aspect of our lives. How about a channel focused on AgTech? Imagine breaking down how AI and robotics are revolutionizing farming. You could be the Neil deGrasse Tyson of precision agriculture!

Or consider the world of accessibility tech. As our population ages and awareness of disabilities increases, there’s a growing need for content that explores how technology is making the world more inclusive. Think about channels like Molly Burke’s, which focuses on tech from a blindness perspective. There’s room for so much more in this space.

What about the dark side of tech? We’re not talking about Darth Vader here (although a channel dedicated to the tech of Star Wars… hmm, food for thought). No, we’re talking about cybersecurity. With the rise of sophisticated hacking techniques and the increasing importance of data privacy, there’s a massive opportunity for content that breaks down these complex topics for the average Joe.

Here’s another untapped goldmine: legacy tech. While everyone’s fawning over the latest and greatest, there’s a growing nostalgia for the tech of yesteryear. Channels like LGR (Lazy Game Reviews) have found success by diving into retro tech, but there’s still plenty of room in this niche. How about a channel dedicated to restoring and modding vintage computers? Or exploring the evolution of a specific type of technology, like digital cameras or mp3 players?

And let’s not forget about the maker movement. While there are channels like Tested that cover this to some extent, there’s still room for more specialized content. How about a channel focused on using tech to upcycle e-waste? Or one that explores the intersection of traditional crafts and modern technology?

Here’s a wild idea: what about a channel that focuses on tech predictions that went horribly wrong? You could dive into the archives, dig up old tech magazines and TV shows, and dissect their hilariously inaccurate visions of the future. It’s entertaining, educational, and a great way to gain perspective on our current tech predictions.

The key to finding your niche is to look at where your unique interests and expertise intersect with emerging or underserved areas of technology. Maybe you’re a history buff with a passion for gadgets - how about a channel that explores the historical context of modern tech innovations? Or perhaps you’re a fitness enthusiast who loves data - you could create content about the science behind fitness trackers and how to really make use of all that data they collect.

Remember, the goal isn’t to appeal to everyone - it’s to be the go-to source for a specific audience. As Kevin Kelly famously said, you only need 1,000 true fans to make a living as a creator. Find your niche, serve it well, and those fans will come.

Carving Your Path: Unique Ideas for Tech Channels

We’re about to dive into some channel ideas so niche, they make artisanal pickle-making look mainstream. Buckle up, because this is where the rubber meets the road in your journey to tech YouTube stardom.

1. The Dumpster Diving Techie

Ever wondered what happens to all those “obsolete” gadgets people toss out? Channel idea: “Tech Trash to Treasure.” Dive into dumpsters (legally, of course), fish out discarded tech, and breathe new life into it. Show your audience how to repurpose that old tablet into a smart home controller or turn a defunct laptop into a retro gaming machine. You’ll be part MacGyver, part Captain Planet, all awesome.

2. Extreme Environment Tech Testing

Why settle for boring drop tests when you can push tech to its absolute limits? “Tech vs. Nature” could be your calling card. Take gadgets where they’ve never gone before - strap a smartphone to a weather balloon, bury a smartwatch in the desert, or see how long a laptop can survive in the Arctic. It’s part science, part adventure, all entertaining.

3. The Tech Mythbuster

Remember MythBusters? Let’s bring that energy to the tech world. “Tech Myth Smackdown” could be your ticket to viral fame. Does putting your phone in rice really fix water damage? Can you actually fry an egg on an overclocked CPU? Time to find out! Bonus points if you can rope in tech companies to participate in debunking (or confirming) myths about their own products.

4. Rube Goldberg Meets Silicon Valley

Here’s a wild one: “Unnecessarily Complicated Tech Solutions.” Take simple tasks and create the most absurdly over-engineered tech solutions possible. Need to turn on a light? Great, let’s use facial recognition, machine learning, and a small army of drones. It’s equal parts satire and showcase of cutting-edge tech.

5. Tech Time Machine

“If They Had Tech Then” - Imagine how historical events would’ve played out if modern technology existed. How would World War II have been different with smartphones? What if Leonardo da Vinci had access to CAD software? It’s part history lesson, part tech showcase, and entirely fascinating.

6. The Analog Hacker

In a world gone digital, stand out by going analog. “Unplugged Tech” could focus on creating non-electronic versions of modern tech. Build a mechanical Twitter machine, create a flipbook animation of loading screens, or design a Rube Goldberg machine that mimics computer processes. It’s a fantastic way to explain how tech works at a fundamental level.

7. Techsplaining for Toddlers

Ever tried explaining blockchain to a 5-year-old? Well, now’s your chance. “Tech Talk for Tots” could be a hit with both kids and adults. Break down complex tech concepts using finger paints, playdough, and stuffed animals. If you can explain quantum computing using only items found in a kindergarten classroom, you’re golden.

8. The Lazy Tech Reviewer

Forget about meticulously crafted reviews. “Couch Potato Tech Reviews” is all about the real-world, no-effort tech experience. Review gadgets based solely on how they perform when you’re at your absolute laziest. Can you order food without leaving your bed? Does the TV remote require you to stretch too far? This is the channel for tech enthusiasts who consider reaching for the charger cable a workout.

9. Tech Support Time Machine

“Tech Support Through Time” - Imagine providing tech support for historical figures. Help Genghis Khan troubleshoot his satellite phone, or walk Marie Antoinette through setting up her Instagram account. It’s a hilarious way to explore both history and the evolution of technology.

10. The Technophobe’s Guide to the Galaxy

Finally, here’s a curveball - create a tech channel for people who hate tech. “Luddite’s Lament” could be your tagline. Review the latest gadgets from the perspective of someone who thinks the height of technology was the invention of the wheel. It’s a fantastic way to address the very real anxieties many people have about technology, all while sneakily educating them.

Remember, the key to standing out in the saturated world of tech YouTube isn’t just about what you cover, but how you cover it. Your unique perspective, your quirky sense of humor, your particular expertise - that’s what will set you apart.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “These ideas are crazy! Who would watch this stuff?” Well, let me remind you of a little channel called “Will It Blend?” They built an empire on shoving iPhones into blenders. If that can work, trust me, there’s an audience out there for your brand of tech madness.

So, fellow creator, which of these wild ideas speaks to you? Or better yet, what insane mashup of these concepts can you come up with? Because let me tell you, in the world of tech YouTube, sometimes the craziest ideas are the ones that strike gold.

Your Tech Channel Action Plan: From Idea to Internet Fame

Alright, future tech YouTube sensation, we’ve brainstormed, we’ve laughed, we’ve cried (okay, maybe not cried, unless you counted the tears of joy at the prospect of blending smartphones). Now it’s time to turn those wild ideas into cold, hard subscriber counts. Let’s map out your journey from “who’s that?” to “holy smokes, it’s you!”

Step 1: Pick Your Poison

Remember all those insane ideas we just threw around? It’s time to commit. Choose the concept that makes your tech-loving heart sing. Maybe you’re all about that “Dumpster Diving Techie” life, or perhaps “Techsplaining for Toddlers” is calling your name. Whatever it is, pick something you can see yourself doing even when the views are lower than the frame rate on a 90s webcam.

Step 2: Gear Up (But Don’t Go Broke)

Here’s a dirty little secret: You don’t need a NASA-grade setup to start. Your smartphone probably shoots better video than the cameras used to film the moon landing. Start with what you have. As Casey Neistat once said, “The best camera is the one you have with you.” Just make sure your audio doesn’t sound like it’s coming through a tin can and a piece of string.

Step 3: Just Hit Record, For Crying Out Loud

Perfectionism is the enemy of progress. Your first video will probably be awful. Your tenth video will be slightly less awful. By your hundredth, you might actually be good. The point is, you won’t get there unless you start. So hit that record button and start talking about tech like your subscriber count depends on it (because, well, it does).

Step 4: Consistency is Key (Even When It Hurts)

Pick a schedule and stick to it like your videos are keeping the Earth spinning. Whether it’s once a week or once a month, be reliable. Your three subscribers (hi, Mom!) need to know when to expect your groundbreaking content about teaching AI to write Shakespeare.

Step 5: Engage Like Your Life Depends On It

Remember, YouTube is social media, emphasis on social. Respond to every comment like it’s a love letter (even the ones telling you that you don’t know a CPU from a toaster). Build a community. These are your people. They’re the ones who will stick with you when you inevitably decide to pivot to “Underwater Basket Weaving with Raspberry Pi” in six months.

Step 6: Collaborate or Die Trying

Find other small creators in your niche and collaborate. Maybe you can combine your “Tech Trash to Treasure” with someone’s “Extreme Environment Tech Testing” for a video about building a smartphone from junkyard parts and then launching it into space. It’s all about cross-pollination, baby.

Step 7: Learn the Dark Arts of SEO

YouTube’s algorithm is about as transparent as a brick wall, but that doesn’t mean you can’t play the game. Learn about tags, titles, and thumbnails. Make your titles clickbait-y (but not too clickbait-y). Your thumbnail game should be strong enough to make people click even if your video was about watching paint dry on a motherboard.

Step 8: Diversify Your Platform Portfolio

Don’t put all your eggs in the YouTube basket. Spread your tech gospel across the land. Turn your “Techsplaining for Toddlers” into bite-sized TikToks. Craft tweet threads about your “Unnecessarily Complicated Tech Solutions.” The more platforms you’re on, the more chances people have to discover your particular brand of tech insanity.

Step 9: Pivot, Adapt, Overcome

The tech world moves faster than a quantum computer on espresso. Be ready to pivot. Maybe your “Tech Support Time Machine” isn’t hitting, but people love it when you explain blockchain using interpretive dance. Be willing to experiment and change course.

Step 10: Don’t Forget Why You Started

When the grind gets tough, and you’re staring at your subscriber count wondering if it’s broken, remember why you started. You love tech. You love creating. You love explaining why trying to cool your PC with liquid nitrogen is a horrible idea (or is it?). Hold onto that passion, because it’s what will keep you going when the algorithm decides to put your latest video right next to “Watch Paint Dry in 4K”.

Here’s the real talk: building a successful tech channel is harder than explaining the intricacies of quantum entanglement to a goldfish. It’s going to take time, effort, and more than a few moments where you question your life choices. But you know what? It’s also going to be one hell of a ride.

So, fellow creator, are you ready to embark on this crazy journey? Are you prepared to be the tech personality the world didn’t know it needed? Because let me tell you, the world of tech YouTube is waiting for someone exactly like you to come along and shake things up.

Now, stop reading this and go make that first video. Your future viewers are waiting, and they don’t even know it yet. Go on, get out there and show the world what happens when tech meets your unique brand of genius (or insanity, we’re not judging). The tech YouTube revolution starts now, and you’re leading the charge!