Finding what content will resonate with your audience can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially with the endless stream of topics on social media every day. For many, YouTube is the top choice for discovering new trends. The platform is home to millions of videos covering nearly every topic imaginable.

No matter your niche, you are bound to find something that aligns with your goals — even if it's on a viral video about cats. But how to find Social Media Trends on YouTube? This guide will help you answer that question so you can create content that gets views and boosts your performance on social media.

One of the best ways to find viral topics on YouTube is to use the right tools. Virlo AI's virality analysis tool quickly analyzes YouTube’s top-performing videos to help you understand what makes them tick. This way, you can create content that aligns with existing trends and appeal to your target audience.

Table of Content

• Should You Make YouTube Videos On Trending Topics

• How to Find Trending Topics on YouTube in 8 Simple Ways

• How to Leverage Trends on YouTube

• Trending Content Ideas For YouTube Videos

• Go Viral with Virlo's Virality Analysis Tool

Should You Make YouTube Videos On Trending Topics

Creating YouTube videos on trending topics can be a smart strategy for growing your channel, increasing engagement, and potentially going viral. However, a thoughtful approach is required to maximize its benefits.

Benefits of Making Videos on Trending Topics

Increased Visibility

Trending topics often have a high search volume. Creating timely and relevant content can attract a larger audience, even outside your usual subscribers.

Potential for Virality

If your video stands out—through creativity, quality, or a unique perspective—it’s more likely to be shared widely, amplifying your reach.

Boosted Engagement

Viewers are naturally more curious and eager to discuss current trends. This can lead to higher likes, comments, and shares, boosting your video's performance in YouTube’s algorithm.

Improved Channel Growth

Leveraging trends can attract new subscribers, who may stay for your other content.

Positioning as an Expert

Regularly covering trends in your niche can establish you as a go-to authority.

Real-Life Examples

MrBeast

MrBeast often capitalizes on trending challenges or viral topics but puts his unique twist on them. For instance, when Squid Game was trending, he created a real-life version that became one of his most-watched videos.

Marques Brownlee (MKBHD)

Marques quickly reviews newly launched gadgets, like the latest iPhones or Teslas, aligning his videos with tech trends to capture audience interest.

Emma Chamberlain

Emma’s relatable approach to covering trends, like TikTok challenges or pop culture events, helps her maintain relevance with her audience.

Casey Neistat

Casey has created timely content around significant events, like his viral "Snowboarding Through NYC" video during a blizzard, which resonated because it was highly topical.

How to Find Trending Topics on YouTube in 8 Simple Ways

1. Use Virlo

Virlo helps creators of short-form content crack the code of virality through AI-powered trend analysis. Our platform combines creator insights with advanced analytics to identify winning content patterns, optimal posting times, and successful audio/video combinations that help your content stand out in today's fast-moving social landscape. Perfect for independent creators looking to build a sustainable side business, Virlo takes the guesswork out of content strategy. 

We analyze the latest viral trends and help you understand when to post and what combinations of elements drive engagement. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo enables you to navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo's virality analysis tool.

2. Start With the YouTube Trending Feed

One of the easiest ways to find trending YouTube topics is to check out the trending tab. The YouTube trending page showcases the platform's most popular content, highlighting videos capturing the audience’s real-time attention. This section shows you the most popular videos currently getting many views. For example, if you’re in the gaming niche, check out what games are trending in the feed. 

You can then make reaction videos or record yourself playing those games to ride the wave of popularity. Remember to add your unique spin and personality to your content instead of copying the trending videos. By watching YouTube trends and putting your twist on them, you’ll be well on your way to creating videos that people can’t wait to watch. Understanding the dynamics of the YouTube Trending page can be invaluable for creators looking for inspiration and insights into what content is currently resonating with viewers.

3. Find Hot Topics on TikTok

TikTok is where trends are born. If you want to know what’s trending right now (or will eventually trend on YouTube), it makes sense to open TikTok. But “watching videos” is only the first step. Explore trending videos and hashtags in the TikTok Creative Center to get up to speed much faster. Go to the TikTok Creative Center, then select the Trends tab. From there, you can view trending hashtags, songs, videos, and creators who also end up on YouTube!

4. Discover Outlier Videos

Want to know what’s working for other YouTube creators? Look for viral videos that are getting way more views than their usual content. You can use 1of10 to find these “outlier” videos. It shows which videos perform better than a channel’s normal view count. This is a great way to get ideas for your videos. You can model your titles after those doing well, get inspiration from their thumbnails, and even find channels that consistently publish popular content.

5. Leverage the YouTube Analytics Research Tab

The YouTube Analytics Research tab is a powerful, free tool that provides valuable insights into what your target audience is searching for. This information can help you create content that resonates with them. This tool shows you a list of popular search queries related to your channel, giving you plenty of ideas for new videos. 

Since the data comes directly from your audience, it’s highly relevant and can help you make videos more likely to succeed. Using this keyword research tool, you’ll never run out of content ideas your viewers will love. Next time you’re stuck on what to create, head over to your YouTube Analytics and see what your target audience looks for!

6. Use Twitter

As a creator, you can find trending topics on Twitter. Simply follow accounts related to your niche and look for tweets about what’s popular. For any topics you follow, you'll begin to see tweets related to those subjects in your feed. That makes it easier to see trends that would make great YouTube videos.

7. Use Trend Spotting Platforms

Trend-spotting platforms like Exploding Topics and Glimpse are excellent resources for finding hot topics that are blowing up. These tools work for any niche or use case, making them incredibly versatile. You can discover trending searches and which keywords generate the most search volume using these platforms. This information helps create content that people are interested in. Whether in the gaming, beauty, or finance niche, trend-spotting platforms can help you stay on top of the latest trends and create videos that will get views.

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How to Leverage Trends on YouTube

Spotting the Next YouTube Trend

YouTube trends change quickly, so you must monitor the platform to identify them. Several resources help you quickly spot trending videos on YouTube. 

YouTube's Trending Dashboard shows you what currently captures the public's interest. You can see real-time trending topics and drill down into specific trends.

Google Trends reveals the long-term popularity of particular keywords. Type in the term you’re interested in and select "YouTube search" from the drop-down menu.

Social media platforms also provide significant trend indicators. For inspiration, check out what’s currently viral on TikTok, Pinterest, and X (formerly Twitter).

More in-depth paid alternatives like VidIQ and TubeBuddy help you tap into trending content ideas for YouTube using their trend alerts and video engagement analytics.

Don't forget to check the comments below videos on trending topics when planning your content. They highlight gaps in your audience’s knowledge or interests that you can fill with your expertise. 

Choosing the Right Trends for Your YouTube Channel

Remember that not every trend is worth following when considering which content to make for your YouTube channel. Some trends quickly spike in visibility and then fade away. Look for clues about how long a topic has been trending and whether it’s still growing. 

Evergreen content doesn’t age or only needs occasional updates. You get a better long-term return if you create a video that will be relevant, interesting, and valuable to your target audience in a few years. 

So, don’t focus solely on trending searches on YouTube. Instead, leverage your expertise and go niche on any topics you target. Work on content that covers trending issues your subscribers will likely enjoy. That way, you’ll retain their loyalty while still reaching new audiences.

Before you decide to shoot and upload a video on a trending topic, consider the following:

Make it about you

Your audience appreciates you for the spin and focus you put on the topics you cover. Approach the trending topic in a way they expect and want from you.

Likely engagement

Consider whether both your new and existing audiences will like what you produce. Will they generate enough positive engagement to help with the algorithm? If not, is it worth creating?

Opportunity vs. cost

If you’re going to spend time creating a video on a trending topic, make sure it’s a worthwhile investment.

Selecting ‘Trendy’ Formats

To create unique content for YouTube, you need to choose trending formats and topics. Here are some kinds of videos that currently make up the most popular content on YouTube:

Short-form videos

With the introduction of YouTube Shorts, video sharing on the platform has expanded to include edits of just a few seconds.

Unboxing videos

A form of reaction video in which viewers watch the creator remove a product from its packaging for the first time. They then share the details of everything included in the box and give a first glimpse at the product itself.

Live streams

From video game content creators to manufacturers. Live streams are a great way of engaging audiences in discussions about trending topics.

Product reviews

After a creator has used a new product or service, they share what's good about the product and what could be better. This helps viewers decide if this is the right product for the.m

Tutorial videos

Educational videos are longer-form, in-depth takes on a topic. The evergreen nature of this content generally has longer-term staying potential.

By choosing the right topic and format, creators can connect with their audience in new and positive ways. Creating different types of videos will sharpen your editing skills, too. 

What Is Virlo, and How Can It Help You Find Social Media Trends? 

Virlo offers short-form content creators a way to understand and leverage virality through AI-powered trend analysis. Our platform combines creator insights with advanced analytics to identify winning content patterns, optimal posting times, and successful audio/video combinations that help your content stand out in today’s fast-moving social landscape. 

Perfect for independent creators looking to build a sustainable side business, Virlo takes the guesswork out of content strategy. We analyze the latest viral trends and help you understand when to post and what combinations of elements drive engagement. Whether you’re just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo enables you to navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo’s virality analysis tool.

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Trending Content Ideas For YouTube Videos

1. Reaction Videos: Your Take on the Latest Buzz

Reaction videos are some of the most popular YouTube trends right now. People love watching other people react to their favorite things, and you can tap into this trend by recording your reaction to viral videos, music, movie trailers, games, or just about anything. By reacting to something with a large audience, you can engage with existing fans while sharing your unique perspective. For example, many creators react to trending music videos or viral TikTok compilations, providing commentary that resonates with viewers.

2. Challenge Participation: Join the Party

YouTube challenges have been around for years, and they’re not going anywhere. Engaging in prevalent challenges can help attract viewers searching for related content. When you participate in a challenge that’s currently trending, you can draw in a new audience as you complete the challenge and document your journey. For example, the Ice Bucket and Mannequin Challenge saw numerous YouTubers participating and gaining substantial views.

3. Tutorials on Emerging Technologies: Help the Public Adjust

As new technologies emerge, audiences seek tutorials to understand and utilize them. Popular YouTube channels that quickly produce tutorials on the latest software updates or gadgets often see increased traffic. For example, countless users turned to YouTube when the iPhone 14 came out to help them adjust to the new features. The channels that helped the public adapt to the latest technology with tutorials and walkthroughs saw significant traffic increases.

4. Collaborations with Trending Creators: Team Up to Get Noticed

Partnering with popular creators can introduce your channel to a broader audience. Collaborations between prominent YouTubers often result in cross-promotion and subscriber growth. If you can team up with a trending creator, you can boost your channel even faster. For example, after YouTuber MrBeast started collaborating with smaller channels, he helped them gain millions of subscribers almost overnight.  

5. Coverage of Major Events: Be There to Commentate

Providing commentary or summaries of significant events, such as award shows or sports finals, can attract viewers interested in recaps. For instance, channels that discuss highlights from events like the Oscars or the World Cup often experience spikes in viewership. If you want to capitalize on this trending idea, post your coverage quickly to capture the audience looking for information before it moves on to the next big thing.

6. Unboxing and Reviews of New Products: Show What’s Inside

Unboxing and reviewing newly released products, especially tech gadgets, can draw in viewers considering purchases. For example, tech reviewers who unbox and review the latest smartphones or gaming consoles shortly after release attract significant attention. You can also get in on the trend by unboxing and reviewing products from other niches. Just be sure to choose a product that’s relevant to your audience.

7. Educational Content on Current Issues: Explain What’s Going On

As new technologies emerge, audiences seek tutorials to understand and utilize them. Popular YouTube channels that quickly produce tutorials on the latest software updates or gadgets often see increased traffic. For example, countless users turned to YouTube when the iPhone 14 came out to help them adjust to the new features. The channels that helped the public adapt to the latest technology with tutorials and walkthroughs saw significant traffic increases.

8. Lifestyle Vlogs Reflecting Popular Trends: Share Your Journey

Vlogging about lifestyle trends, such as minimalism or fitness challenges, can resonate with audiences interested in these movements. For example, vloggers documenting their journey through popular diets or home organization methods often engage viewers undertaking similar endeavors. As you create content, be sure to put your unique spin on it to differentiate your channel from the others covering the same trend.

9. Gaming Content on Trending Games: Get the Latest Scores

Creating content around newly released or trending games can attract the gaming community. Gamers who produce let’s plays or tutorials for trending games often see increased engagement. If you want to boost your traffic, keep an eye on upcoming releases and create your content as soon as the game launches. You can also explore existing games that are regaining popularity to capitalize on the audience looking for fresh content.

10. Health and Wellness Tips in Response to Global Events: Help Others Cope

Health advice or wellness tips can benefit a broad audience, especially in response to global health trends. For instance, channels that share accurate information and wellness strategies often experience growth during health crises. Consider how you can tie your niche into helping others cope with current events to create valuable content serving a large audience.

Go Viral with Virlo's Virality Analysis Tool

Before you can equip the potential of YouTube trends to grow your channel, you first need to understand what they are. YouTube trends are the topics that are currently popular on the platform. These trends change frequently, so what’s hot today may be old news tomorrow. YouTube trends vary by audience and can be affected by geography and recent events. For example, if a significant news story about a celebrity exists, there may be a surge of trending videos about that person. 

Similarly, if a popular YouTuber creates a video about a specific game, there may be a spike in trending videos about that game and associated characters and features. Trending topics can help you identify what a particular audience is interested in at any given moment. This can help you create content that will satisfy their current curiosity and get you more views.

Virlo offers short-form content creators a way to understand and leverage virality through AI-powered trend analysis. Our platform combines creator insights with advanced analytics to identify winning content patterns, optimal posting times, and successful audio/video combinations that help your content stand out in today’s fast-moving social landscape. 

Perfect for independent creators looking to build a sustainable side business, Virlo takes the guesswork out of content strategy. We analyze the latest viral trends and help you understand when to post and what combinations of elements drive engagement. Whether you’re just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo enables you to navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo’s virality analysis tool.

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