YouTube URL Parser

The parameters in a YouTube link

v is the video ID, list a playlist, index the video's position in that playlist, and t the start time. Links copied with the share button often add si, a share identifier that YouTube can use to connect the link to the account that shared it; the normalized forms here leave it out, which is a good reason to share them instead.

Playlist IDs usually reveal their kind by prefix: PL for playlists people create, UU for a channel's uploads, and RD for automatic mixes, which are generated per viewer and may not open the same for someone else.

Which form to use

The watch URL is the canonical address and suits articles and documentation. The short youtu.be form is best in messages and anywhere characters are counted. The privacy-enhanced embed URL goes in an <iframe>; the embed generator builds the full code with a start time.

A Shorts link opened as a watch URL with the same ID plays in the normal player, with a seek bar and the usual controls, which is handy for pausing or linking to a precise moment.

How to use it

1. Paste a YouTube URL or video ID.
2. Build the parsed result.
3. Copy the normalized form you need.

Privacy & limitations

Parsing happens only in your browser and does not load the video. Playlist and timestamp parameters are displayed when present.