Embedding YouTube videos on your WordPress blog can transform your content, providing readers with a more interactive experience.
But if you’re unsure how to incorporate videos smoothly, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll walk you through five reliable methods to embed YouTube videos using both the Gutenberg and Classic editors.
You’ll also discover customization options to make videos load faster and look exactly how you envision.
For a visual guide, watch the following video that details each step, making it even easier to follow along with your own blog post.
Why Embed YouTube Videos in Your WordPress Blog?
Embedding YouTube videos in your WordPress blog post is an easy way to make your content more dynamic. By offering readers an additional visual component, you’re increasing engagement and the likelihood that they’ll spend more time on your page.
Plus, embedded videos offer SEO benefits by enriching your content, which can ultimately help boost your search engine rankings.
Let’s dive into the methods available and learn how to embed, customize, and optimize video display for both Gutenberg and Classic editors.
Using the YouTube Block in Gutenberg
The YouTube Block is a straightforward way to embed videos in Gutenberg. This block automatically formats the video for WordPress, ensuring a clean look that fits seamlessly within your blog post.
Here’s how to use it:
- Copy the URL of your YouTube video.
- Go to the post editor and click the + Add Block button.
- Search for “YouTube” and select the YouTube block.
- Paste the YouTube video URL and click Embed.
Your video will now be embedded in the post, maintaining its original format. This method is ideal if you want a quick, no-fuss embedding option.
Using the Embed Block in Gutenberg
The Embed Block offers a similar result to the YouTube block but provides an alternative if you prefer to work with generic embed tools:
- In the Gutenberg editor, add a new block and search for Embed.
- Paste the YouTube video URL and select Embed.
This method, like the YouTube block, ensures a smooth integration without requiring extra customization steps. It’s another quick and easy option that works well for most standard video embeds.
Embedding with the Video Block
If you need additional control over video sources, the Video Block allows you to link a URL instead of uploading media, which can help avoid heavy file uploads:
- Click on + Add Block and choose the Video option.
- Under video options, select Insert from URL and paste the YouTube URL.
- Click Apply.
This method adds flexibility for situations where you want to experiment with video sources without affecting your WordPress media library.
Using VideoPress Block for Greater Control
The VideoPress Block is a fantastic option if you want more control over video styling while embedding directly from an external source:
- Add the VideoPress block by searching in the block library.
- Paste the video URL and click Embed.
While it may look similar to the previous blocks, VideoPress offers unique backend customization options for those looking to manage videos more extensively.
Advanced Customization with Custom HTML Code
For those who want to customize video size, position, or other attributes, using Custom HTML gives you full control over your embed. This approach allows you to fine-tune display settings, such as adjusting video width and height or setting a custom start time.
To use Custom HTML:
- Go to the YouTube video you want to embed, click Share, then Embed.
- Copy the iframe code, which includes both width and height parameters.
- In WordPress, select Custom HTML from the block library and paste the iframe code.
- Adjust width and height within the code to match your preferences.
By embedding videos this way, you can customize every aspect, including player controls and display mode.
“Adding YouTube videos to your blog post using custom HTML can enhance loading speed and improve user experience.”
Customizing Video Size and Positioning
If your design requires specific video sizes, using HTML offers you a way to resize and position videos easily.
Follow these steps to customize the appearance of embedded videos:
- To adjust video width and height, modify the width and height attributes in the iframe code.
- To center the video, wrap the iframe code in
<center>tags.
This method allows you to set video dimensions as per your page design and ensure it aligns neatly on your blog post.
Embedding YouTube Videos in Classic Editor
If you’re using WordPress’s Classic Editor, you may notice fewer options for embedding.
However, the method is simple:
- Copy the YouTube iframe code as before.
- Open your post in the Classic Editor, switch to Text mode.
- Paste the iframe code wherever you want the video to appear.
For centering and resizing videos, you can add HTML code directly into the Text editor as shown above. This approach works efficiently with Classic Editor, giving you control without needing additional plugins.
Choosing the Best Method for Faster Loading
Out of the five methods we explored, the Custom HTML method tends to load the fastest, making it our recommended choice for optimal speed. Not only does this method allow for customization, but it also reduces unnecessary loading times, keeping your site responsive.
“When it comes to WordPress, speed matters. Using Custom HTML for YouTube embeds enhances performance and keeps readers engaged.”
Conclusion: Embed YouTube Videos Effortlessly in WordPress
Now that you know multiple ways to embed YouTube videos in WordPress, you can choose the method that best suits your design and loading needs.
Each method has unique advantages, from easy blocks for quick embeds to customizable HTML for personalized styling. Try them out to find what works best for your blog post style.
For more visual instructions, watch the video tutorial above to see each method in action. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more helpful tips on WordPress and blog formatting.
If you have any questions or need assistance with your blog post setup, contact us here to help solve your blog post issues!
