Handles, custom URLs and IDs
| Format | Example | Can change? |
|---|---|---|
| Channel ID | youtube.com/channel/UCBR8-60-B28hp2BmDPdntcQ | Never |
| @handle | youtube.com/@YouTube | Yes, by the owner |
| Legacy custom URL | youtube.com/c/YouTube | Being phased out |
| Legacy username | youtube.com/user/YouTube | Old channels only |
When you need the ID
- YouTube Data API calls and analytics dashboards.
- Embedding a channel's uploads or a subscribe button.
- RSS feed readers and automation tools (Zapier, Make, IFTTT).
- Ad targeting (placements) and sponsorship contracts.
Bonus: uploads playlist and RSS
Every channel has an "uploads" playlist whose ID is the channel ID with UC replaced by UU. The tool also gives you the channel's RSS feed (youtube.com/feeds/videos.xml?channel_id=…) for feed readers and automations.
Find your own channel ID
In YouTube Studio go to Settings → Channel → Advanced settings, or paste your @handle here. See subscriber and view counts with YouTube Channel Statistics.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find a YouTube channel ID?
Paste the channel URL or @handle into the finder. It returns the UC… channel ID, the channel URL, the uploads playlist and the RSS feed.
Does a channel ID ever change?
No. The channel ID is permanent, even if the owner changes the channel name or @handle.
What is the difference between a handle and a channel ID?
A handle like @name is a readable, changeable alias. The channel ID is the permanent technical identifier.
How do I get a channel's RSS feed?
Use https://www.youtube.com/feeds/videos.xml?channel_id= followed by the channel ID. The tool shows the full link.