How to Insert a YouTube Video into Google Slides

Google Slides has a built-in YouTube integration, but it comes with limitations. Here are three ways to insert a YouTube video.

Method 1: Native YouTube Embed

1. In Google Slides, go to Insert > Video.
2. Paste the YouTube URL or search for the video.
3. Click Select to add it to the slide.
4. Open Format options to set start/end timestamps, mute audio, or adjust size.

Limitations: Requires an internet connection during presentation. Shows YouTube ads, player chrome, and suggested videos. Playback depends on YouTube's availability.

Method 2: Download and Upload to Google Drive

1. Download the YouTube video using a tool like cobalt.tools.
2. Upload the file to Google Drive.
3. In Google Slides, go to Insert > Video > Google Drive and select the file.

Pros: Works offline once cached. No ads or player chrome. Cons: Requires downloading the video and uploading to Drive. Uses your Drive storage.

Method 3: Slidekick

With Slidekick:

1. Paste the YouTube video URL.
2. Trim to the exact moment.
3. Export as GIF.
4. Send the GIF straight to your Google Slides deck.

Slidekick handles URL import, trimming, and direct delivery to Google Slides — no downloading, no Drive upload, no file juggling.

If you insert YouTube videos into Google Slides regularly, Slidekick lets you paste the URL, trim the moment, and send GIFs straight to your deck — no install.