Before YouTube accepts a channel into the YouTube Partner Program (YPP), it cannot use YouTube’s native monetization features. Reaching an eligibility threshold lets a channel apply; it does not unlock earnings before approval. YouTube may still show ads on a video without sharing that ad revenue with the channel.
What changes at each YPP stage?
YouTube has an earlier application route for certain features and a higher threshold for ad and YouTube Premium revenue. The figures below are YouTube’s published guidance as checked on October 3, 2026; availability and feature-specific requirements also matter.
| Stage | Published threshold | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Before YPP acceptance | No YPP monetization features are available to the unapproved channel. | The channel has not been accepted, even if it is building toward a threshold. |
| Expanded YPP application route | 500 subscribers, three valid public uploads in the last 90 days, and either 3,000 qualified public watch hours in the last 12 months or 3 million qualified public Shorts views in the last 90 days. | In participating countries or regions, meeting these numbers allows the channel to apply for early access to eligible fan-funding and Shopping features. YouTube must still review and accept the channel. |
| Ad and Premium revenue application route | 1,000 subscribers and either 4,000 qualified public watch hours in the last 12 months or 10 million qualified public Shorts views in the last 90 days. | This is the currently published threshold for Watch Page Ads, Shorts Feed Ads, and YouTube Premium revenue. The channel must still apply and be accepted. |
The 500-subscriber route is not available everywhere, and meeting either set of numbers is not a guarantee of acceptance. YouTube reviews the channel as a whole. Check the Earn section in YouTube Studio for the channel’s current status, regional availability, and which features it can apply for.
What can a channel use at 500 subscribers?
After acceptance through expanded YPP, an eligible creator may be able to access channel memberships, Super Chat and Super Stickers, Super Thanks, and YouTube Shopping. Shopping may include connecting an official merchandise store, promoting the creator’s own products, or promoting products from other brands.
#1 Best Overall
- [Natural Audio Clarity] Operated with frequency response of 50Hz-16KHz, the podcasting XLR mic delivers balanced audio range, likely to resonate with your audience. Directional cardioid dynamic microphone corded will not exaggerate your voice, while rejects unwanted off-axis noise for vocal originality and intelligibility during your PS5 gaming streaming video recording. (Tips: Keep the top of end-addressing XLR dynamic microphone AM8 facing audio source, and suggested recording range is 2 to 6 in.)
- [XLR Connection Upgrade-Ability] To use XLR connection, connect the podcast microphone to an audio interface (or mixer) using a separate XLR cable (NOT Included) . Well-connected and smooth operation improves audio flexibility to make you explore various types of music recording singing. The streaming mic isolates the pristine and accurate sound from ambient noise with greater no interference and fidelity. (RGB and function key on mic are INACTIVE when using XLR connection.)
- [USB Connection with Handy Mute] Skip the hassle of setting something up and plug the cable to play the dynamic USB microphone directly, which suits for beginner creators or daily podcast. You can quickly control the gamer mic with tap-to-mute that is independent of computer/Macbook programs to keep privacy when live streaming. LED mute reminder helps you get rid of forgetting to cancel the mute. (RGB and function key are only available for USB connection, but NOT for XLR connection)
- [Soothing Controllable RGB] RGB ring on the desktop gaming microphone for PC, with 3 modes and more than 10 light colors collection, matches your PC gears accessories for gaming synergy even in dim room. You can control the RGB key button of the dynamic microphone USB directly for game color scheme gaming or live streaming. Configured memory function, the streaming microphone RGB no need to repeated selections after turnning off and brings itself alive when power on. (Only available for USB connection)
- [More Function Keys] Computer microphone with headphones jack upgrades your rhythm game experience and gets feedback whether the real-time voice your audience hear as expected. Get the desired level via monitoring volume control when gaming recording. Smooth mic gain knob on the PC microphone gaming has some resistance to the point, easily for audio attenuation or boost presence to less post-production audio. (Only available for USB connection)
These are post-acceptance features, not pre-approval workarounds. Each feature has additional eligibility conditions. Fan-funding features require the creator to be at least 18, live in a location where the feature is offered, and accept the relevant Commerce Product Module terms. Shopping also has feature-specific requirements.
Which features require the higher threshold?
YouTube’s published higher threshold applies to Watch Page Ads, Shorts Feed Ads, and YouTube Premium revenue. As of October 3, 2026, a channel needs 1,000 subscribers plus either 4,000 qualified public watch hours in the preceding 12 months or 10 million qualified public Shorts views in the preceding 90 days.
Rank #2
- Custom three-capsule array: This professional USB mic produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube videos, Twitch game streaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, music recording and more
- Blue VO!CE software: Elevate your streamings and recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples
- Four pickup patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics, for vocals, instruments and podcasts
- Onboard audio controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the audio recording and streaming process
- Positionable design: Pivot the mic in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality thanks to the adjustable desktop stand and track your voice in real time with no-latency monitoring
- Watch time from views in the Shorts Feed does not count toward the 4,000-hour long-form watch-time threshold.
- Paid ad campaign views and watch time do not count toward YPP thresholds. YouTube says qualifying organic views that follow promoted content may count.
Do ads on an unapproved channel mean it is earning?
No. YouTube reserves the right to serve ads on content, including content from channels that have not met the higher YPP eligibility criteria. Seeing an ad is not evidence that the channel is eligible for a share of its revenue.
YouTube Help states: “If you do not currently meet the higher eligibility criteria of YPP you may still see ads being served on your content. In this case, you are not yet eligible to receive a share of the revenue.” The distinction is between ads YouTube may display and the channel’s eligibility to receive a share.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- [Award Honored, Full Audio] FIFINE AmpliGame A6V, a gaming mic, has earned the globally recognized iF Design Award. The PC microphone with 192kHz sampling rate delivers naturally detailed audio, making your team sound like they're right beside you. Cardioid polar pattern and 70dB SNR offer dual support for pure voice, sensitive to the front vocal and reducing background noise interference. The streaming mic helps you win more easily.
- [Quick Mute Button, Handy Gain Knob] Immediately silence the USB microphone with a tap, preventing emotional outbursts to maintain a positive team atmosphere. RGB off when muted to indicate status and prevent streaming accidents. Mic volume control conveniently located on the condenser microphone is intuitive to use. You can speak at a comfortable level without shouting or whispering during game.
- [Gradient RGB] Bicolored RGB cycles through 7 gradient colors automatically. Vivid lighting on the FIFINE microphone for PC enhances your glowing rig for a carnival atmosphere, immersing you in the intense game arena. The computer microphone for desktop with fixed light modes achieves a personalized experience without visual clutter, randomly matching game characters for surprise color combos.
- [Plug and Play] The PS5 microphone is easy to install and compatible with PS4, desktop, laptop and mainstream operating systems like Windows/Mac OS, without extra software. Quickly start game chat on Discord, Team and Zoom, or stream on OBS, Streamlabs and Twitch platforms. The gaming microphone PC coming with 6.6ft-long detachable USB cable ensures no interruptions or connectivity issues, even if your computer host is under the desk.
- [Useful Accessories] The podcast microphone features durable construction. Anti-vibration shock mount with four rubber bands absorbs tremor from keyboard taps and mouse clicks. The detachable pop filter reduces plosives caused by excited speech during gaming. The stable tripod stand with rubber feet allows for optimal recording positioning via an adjustable thumbscrew, whether you're leaning back or in.
Will the ad-revenue thresholds change?
YouTube has announced that, beginning February 1, 2027, new creators will need 1,000 subscribers plus either 8,000 qualified watch hours over the previous 365 days or 20 million qualified Shorts views over the previous 90 days to access ad and Premium revenue. This is a future change, not the threshold active on October 3, 2026. YouTube says the earlier entry thresholds for fan funding and Shopping will remain unchanged.
Can a 24/7 livestream get around YPP approval?
No. Keeping a YouTube stream live does not bypass YPP acceptance or make YouTube-native monetization features available. If you plan to run pre-recorded videos as a continuous YouTube stream, StreamNeo is a cloud service that loops uploaded videos on YouTube, so your computer does not need to stay on. It does not itself grant YPP approval or a share of YouTube revenue; eligibility for YouTube features remains subject to YouTube’s rules.
Rank #4
- [Convenient Setup] Plug and play recording USB microphone for PC, with 5.9-Foot USB cable included for computer PC laptop, is connected directly to USB-A port for recording music, computer singing or podcast. The office condenser microphone for computer is easy to use and install. (NOT compatible with Xbox and Phones)
- [Durable Metal Design] Solid sturdy metal construction design, the computer microphone for Zoom meetings with stable tripod stand is convenient when you are doing voice overs or livestreams on YouTube. Durable material extends the service life of the voice-over microphone.
- [Mic Volume Knob] Gaming condenser USB mic compatible for PS4 with additional volume knob itself has a louder or quieter adjustment and is more sensitive. Your voice would be heard well enough through the zoom microphone USB when gaming, skyping or voice recording. Also, you can adjust your volume to zero and protect your privacy.
- [Widely Use] USB-powered design, the condenser microphone for recording no need the 48v Phantom power supply, works well with Cortana, Discord, voice chat and voice recognition. The podcast microphone for Mac, with USB-B to USB-A/C cable, is compatible with desktop, laptop or PS4/PS5, which meets most of your daily recording needs.
- [Clear Output Voice] Cardioid condenser microphone for PC captures your voice properly, producing clear smooth and crisp sound. Great computer recording mic for gamers/streamers/youtubers focus on the main source and reduces background noise. The streaming microphone does the job well for broadcast ,OBS and teamspeak.
StreamNeo has one price per slot for uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps, automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream, and a first day free without a card. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. To try it, start a StreamNeo trial.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do next
- Open YouTube Studio and select Earn to see the features and application status available to your channel.
- Check which threshold applies to the feature you want: early access to fan funding and Shopping, or the higher ad and Premium revenue route.
- Apply when YouTube Studio shows that your channel is eligible, and wait for YouTube’s review before treating a feature as available.
Third-party sponsorships and affiliate programs are separate from YouTube-native YPP features. YouTube’s YPP thresholds do not establish whether a new channel qualifies for any particular external program; check that program’s own terms.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Studio-Quality Sound for Clear Podcast Recording – The K66 USB podcast microphone delivers studio-quality, broadcast-level audio using a high-performance condenser capsule and cardioid pickup pattern that focuses on your voice while reducing unwanted background noise. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it features a wide 40Hz–18kHz frequency response and a 46kHz sampling rate to reproduce rich lows, smooth mids, and clear highs for natural, detailed vocals. With –45dB ±3dB sensitivity, it captures balanced sound without distortion during expressive speaking. Ideal for podcasting, voice-over, online classes, meetings, and professional content creation.
- Intelligent Noise Reduction Mode for Cleaner Podcast Audio – This podcast microphone features an advanced Noise Reduction Mode designed for clearer, more focused voice recording in real-world environments. Press and hold the mute button to enable noise reduction (blue indicator). In this mode, the microphone helps reduce keyboard clicks, PC fan noise, air conditioner hum, and background chatter. Default Mode maintains a warm, natural vocal tone for quiet spaces. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it allows creators to identify the active mode instantly and adapt as needed, ensuring clear audio for podcasting, gaming, streaming, online classes, meetings, and recording.
- True Plug-and-Play USB Microphone with Wide Device Compatibility – Engineered for effortless plug-and-play use, the K66 USB microphone requires no drivers, apps, or software installation. Simply connect and start recording on Windows PC, Mac, laptops, PS4, PS5, and tablets. Included USB-C and Lightning adapters ensure seamless compatibility with iPhone, iPad, and modern USB-C phones and devices, making it easy to switch between desktop and mobile recording. Ideal for creators working across multiple platforms, this microphone delivers consistent, high-quality audio for YouTube, TikTok, Twitch, Zoom, Discord, OBS Studio, Streamlabs, podcasting, livestreaming, and professional voice recording.
- Real-Time Zero-Latency Monitoring with Adjustable Volume Control – This podcast microphone features real-time, zero-latency monitoring through a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing you to hear exactly what’s being recorded without delay. Designed as a reliable microphone for PC, it includes a dedicated monitoring volume control that lets you adjust headphone listening levels independently for accurate and comfortable audio monitoring. Real-time feedback helps identify distortion, background noise, or uneven volume before it affects your final recording, making this podcast microphone ideal for podcasting, streaming, online teaching, voice-over work, and professional content creation.
- Precision Audio Adjustment Knobs for Full Sound Control – This podcast microphone gives creators hands-on control with dedicated knobs for microphone volume, monitoring volume, and echo adjustment. Fine-tune mic gain to maintain clear, balanced vocal output, adjust headphone monitoring levels independently for comfortable listening, and add or reduce echo to enhance depth and presence. Designed as a reliable PC microphone, these intuitive physical controls allow fast, on-the-fly adjustments without software, helping identify distortion, background noise, or level inconsistencies instantly. Ideal for podcasting, streaming, ASMR, voice-overs, singing, and professional multi-platform recording.
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