Blogging vs Vlogging which one is for you and which is more lucrative? The good news is there is a huge earning potential for both, but there are many things to consider when choosing which one to pursue. For instance, the costs to get started, how much time you have to commit, your personality type, and more.
Learning the difference between blogging vs vlogging can help you decide which one is better for you. But before we compare the differences between a blog vs vlog, let’s get into their definition first.
Definitions of Blog vs Vlog
To know whether you want to blog or vlog, you need to know their definitions first. A blog features written articles on various topics such as finance, health, fitness, and more. They can be used for marketing products and services.
A vlog is basically a blog that is made up of videos instead of written content. So, instead of reading an article on how to budget, a vlogger would create a video and talk about it. It could be videos on a day in their life, behind-the-scenes, or just topical content. The popularity of vlogging stemmed from YouTube and has branched out to social media sites such as Instagram too.
The difference between blog and vlog
So, now that you know their definitions, let’s dig into the difference between blog and vlog.
1. Time commitment
A big thing to consider when comparing blogging vs vlogging is the time commitment for each one. Vlogging will take up more of your time personally because you are the star! You are the face of the video content you are creating; therefore, you will need to consider that when deciding which is best for you.
Another thing to remember is that editing your videos will take up a bit of your schedule too. So you will not only be responsible for recording your videos but editing them as well.
Of course, blogging is time-consuming too, but since the content is written and not recorded, you can outsource your articles to other writers. For instance, you can pay freelancers to write a blog post to be featured on your website. This can help you bulk up your blog quickly without it taking up a ton of your time.
2. Editing content
Again, when it comes to editing, there’s a major difference between blogging vs vlogging. A blog post requires proofreading, formatting, etc. But a vlog requires more time trying to edit the videos.
You may also need to invest in video editing software to help you create the best videos for your vlog. Video editing is very time-consuming so keep this in mind when choosing which one to pursue.
3. Hosting accounts
Something to consider when comparing a blog vs vlog is how you are going to publish your content. Having a blog means you will need to purchase a domain, aka a website, to feature your content.
You can feature your content on blogging sites such as Medium, but it’s much more profitable if you have your own site. However, there are many platforms available for vlogging that you can utilize and make a good income.
YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook are among the most popular sites for vlogs. This is an excellent way to get started without having to pay for a hosting account.
4. Blogging vs vlogging content creation
So another big difference between a blog and vlog is how you create content. For instance, blogging is all written content that can feature images or graphs. A vlog is made entirely of videos.
Again with vlogging, you are the face of all the content creation. You will need to consistently make engaging videos to attract traffic to your vlog. With a blog, you can feature guest writers to assist with the workload.
5. Equipment needs for a blog vs vlog
The hosting cost for a blog may be more costly, but you don’t need fancy equipment to start blogging. Basically, all you need is a decent computer and an internet connection.
Some vloggers invest in a camera, microphone, and editing software. But sometimes, people will start simply by recording themselves on their phones, computers, etc. If you do decide to invest in vlogging equipment, be a savvy shopper and check around for pre-owned equipment to save money!
6. Monetization differences
There are some similarities between a blog vs vlog when it comes to how you earn from them. For example, both make money from advertising. Of course, some companies such as AdThrive require a minimum of followers or traffic before you can qualify.
Affiliate links are a popular way to make income with a blog. An affiliate link is when you work with a brand or company and make a commission if someone purchases through the link. With blogs, it’s easier to make money through affiliate marketing because someone is more likely to click on your link in your post than they are in the video description of your vlog.
Another opportunity to monetize your blog or vlog is through sponsorships. Companies will pay you to mention their products or services on your posts. Sometimes you will need to have many subscribers or followers before brands offer this.
7. The demand for blogging vs vlogging
Since we are visual creatures, vlogs have exploded in popularity. Everyone seems to love watching their favorite lifestyle influencers reviewing products or showing us how to accent our features with make-up. In fact, over 5 billion videos are watched on YouTube every day!
However, for us writers' blogging still holds true to our hearts. The good news is that blogging has grown 12% since 2015. There is still a huge earning potential from blogging if you do it right!
How much can you make blogging vs vlogging?
It’s true that some people can earn six figures for blogging and vlogging. However, it takes time, hard work, and dedication. The average YouTuber makes about $52,800 a year, which is a pretty decent gig.
The average blogger salary reported on ZipRecruiter is around $38,400. Keep in mind that this can be those blogging for other companies and not necessarily for bloggers running their own sites.
Some bloggers make between $1,000-$10,000 a month! So the income difference between blog and vlog depends on how you monetize them. But the income potential for both is fantastic!
Blogging vs Vlogging: Which should you choose?
Now you know the difference between blog and vlog, so you can start deciding which avenue is best for you. Of course, it depends on your business goals, how fast you want to grow it, and how much start-up costs you have.
Since vlogging is the fastest growing medium, it may be easier to grow. However, when you own your own /website, it increases in value, which makes it an asset. Also, keep in mind that you will need to pay for a hosting account to start your blog or purchase equipment if you vlog.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding blog vs vlog for your new career path:
- Do I feel comfortable being the star of my vlog?
- How much time do I have to dedicate to my blog or vlog?
- Which do I feel more passionate about doing?
- What are my business goals?
- Do I want to outsource my content?
Knowing the difference between a blog vs vlog, how much time you have to dedicate to your business, what your passion is, and if you want to outsource your content will help you decide which path is right for you!
You can create a successful blog or vlog
Whether you are a writer at heart or shine like a star on camera with the right business plan, you can create a successful blog or vlog! Remember to weigh the pros and cons of each avenue before deciding. How much you can earn depends on your business model and how you monetize it.
The great thing is when it comes to blog vs vlog you can start either one as a side hustle and grow it into a lucrative career. Are you ready to get started? Learn how to create the perfect business plan with our completely free course so you can succeed with your new career!