Unboxing videos are a YouTube staple.

Not only are they engaging ways to show off new products,, but they also build viewer trust through genuine, real-time reactions. From the latest tech to niche collectibles, unboxing videos offer viewers a first-hand point of view and valuable pre-purchase insights

For creators, unboxing videos can be a powerful tool for growth, showcasing trending products, and connecting with your audience. But in a crowded space, how do you make unboxing videos that capture attention?

Why Are Unboxing Videos So Popular?

Unboxing videos tap into our curiosity and the excitement of discovery, just like opening a gift–and viewers get to share that "new item" feeling. Since emerging around 2008, the search interest for "unboxing video" has steadily climbed on Google Trends, showing its lasting power.

Example: The term “iphone 16 unboxing” gets over 1,000 searches/month globally.

For consumers, these videos have become a core part of product research. They can check out items outside of polished ads, getting answers about size, contents, and quality through your firsthand look. And they work across numerous niches, from tech and toys to beauty and subscription boxes.

Unboxing videos that perform well on YouTube often focus on high-demand products like smartphones, gaming consoles, toys, footwear, and fashion items. Along with that, variations like ASMR unboxings, seasonal content (like Advent calendar reveals), and videos featuring authentic reactions from likable creators tend to attract significant engagement.

1. Choosing the Right Product to Unbox

The success of your video starts with the product. Focus on items relevant to your audience and niche. Consider:

• Trending Items: What's currently buzzing in your field? Use social listening or trend tracking.
• New Releases: Capitalize on launch hype by being among the first to unbox anticipated new products.
• Audience Requests: Check your comments — unboxing items your viewers specifically ask for builds community loyalty.

2. Gathering the Right Equipment for Filming an Unboxing

Good quality matters, but you don't need a professional studio:

• Camera: Your smartphone is likely sufficient. Aim for at least 1080p resolution for clear visuals.
• Lighting: Use natural light from a window or invest in a simple ring light or softbox to eliminate harsh shadows and illuminate the product clearly.
• Microphone: An external lavalier mic or USB microphone will offer a significant improvement over built-in camera audio.
• Tripod: A simple tabletop or full-size tripod prevents shaky, distracting footage.

Read More: How To Win on YouTube Without Fancy Equipment

3. Write a Loose Script to Stay Focused

Authenticity is key, but a little planning prevents stammering, awkward pausing, and other issues so you can focus on the unboxing itself:

• Outline key talking points about the product.
• Plan a brief intro (hook, product intro) and outro (summary, call to action).
• Note specific features to mention during the reveal.
• Aim for a natural, conversational flow, not a rigid recitation.

4. Structure Your Unboxing Video for Viewer Retention

A clear structure keeps viewers engaged. Remember, the first 10 seconds are critical! Follow a format:

• Intro (Hook): Show the sealed box, express excitement, or tease the product immediately to grab attention.
• Packaging: Show the box, build anticipation.
• Reveal: The main event – open it up! Capture genuine reactions.
• First Impressions: Handle the product, discuss look/feel, and show close-ups of contents. Answer, "What's included?"
• Final Thoughts & CTA: Summarize, offer an opinion, and clearly state your call to action (like, subscribe, comment).

5. Record in a Clean and Consistent Setup

Your filming environment impacts perception.

Opt for a clean, uncluttered space when choosing a background. A simple wall or neat shelf keeps the focus on the product. Avoid mess and distractions, even in the background. A consistent setup across videos also helps build your channel's brand identity.

6. Be Authentic and Engaging on Camera

This is how you make unboxing videos a chance to connect with viewers.

• Show Enthusiasm: Let your genuine excitement (or even mild surprise/disappointment) show. Energy is contagious!
• Be Conversational: Talk to the camera like you're chatting with a friend. Maintain eye contact with the lens.
• Be Yourself: Remember, authenticity builds trust. Don't try to be someone you're not. It’s bad for your brand, plus viewers will see right through it.

7. Optimize Your YouTube Title, Description, and Tags

Help viewers find your unboxing video through basic YouTube SEO.

Title: Make it clear, compelling, and keyword-rich (e.g., "XYZ Gadget Unboxing & First Look"). Use the vidIQ Keyword Tool to find relevant search terms.

Description: Write a detailed summary using keywords. Include product links, social links, and potentially timestamps.

Tags: Experiment with relevant broad and specific tags. Check your vidIQ Scorecard after uploading to gauge SEO effectiveness.

8. Create Eye-Catching Thumbnails

Your thumbnail is your unboxing video's first impression – make it count! Use a high-quality, well-lit image showing the product clearly (perhaps with you reacting).

Ensure it instantly communicates the video's topic. Minimal, readable text can help. Aim for a design that visually jumps at the viewer, begging for attention.

Need more help? Check out our YouTube Thumbnails Guide or try out our Thumbnail Maker.

9. Promote and Share Your Unboxing Video

Maximize your reach by leveraging other social platforms (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok):

• Add the video to relevant YouTube Playlists.
• Use the Community Tab to announce it.
• Create a YouTube Short as a teaser.

Explore more strategies with these 6 popular apps to promote your YouTube channel.

10. Analyze Your Video’s Performance and Improve

Keep an eye on your analytics and learn from your results to refine your strategy. Track key metrics like Audience Retention (where do viewers leave?) and Click-Through Rate (is your title/thumbnail working?).

• Get suggestions for overall channel improvement with Channel Audit.
• See how your video stacks up against your others or competitors with Compare Views.
• Monitor immediate engagement after publishing with Real-Time Stats.

Consistency Turns Viewers into Subscribers

Learning how to make unboxing videos is all about showing yourself off while showing off the products. By choosing the right products, structuring your content, optimizing for discovery, and letting your personality shine, you can create unboxing videos that will grow your audience.

And if you cannot turn your silent viewers into active subscribers, check this out!