01From source file to video
Preparation uses the matching WAV file when available, or the available MP3. YouTube then creates its own encodings for streaming. Listening is therefore not a lossless audio service.
02Choose settings for your connection
Open the video player settings to choose from the available quality options. YouTube’s Auto mode can adapt playback to your connection.
The resolutions shown apply to video. A higher resolution does not guarantee a particular audio bitrate. The site does not promise a fixed bitrate for YouTube.
03Understand data use
Data use depends on the video, selected quality, browser and YouTube’s encodings. A lower video resolution may reduce the amount of data used.
On a limited connection, choose Auto or a suitable resolution in the player. The catalogue and track durations stay the same.
04Stay in control of your listening
The site’s controls let you skip to the next track, adjust the volume, seek within a song and manage repeat. The YouTube player stays visible while you listen.
Moving between pages on the site keeps the same player, playback position, queue, repeat setting and timer. The video stays visible beside the listening tools. Leaving the tab pauses playback; return to the player to resume.
05Share a page and find your track again
Use the site’s buttons to share a link to an album page or a track. The channel’s playlists also let you find the songs on YouTube.
Your listening position is saved locally if you enable that option. See the listening guide for favourites, the queue and the timer.