12 Types of Videos to Drive Growth on Reddit in 2026

Video isn't just one thing; it's a diverse toolkit for growth. In today’s attention economy, choosing the right video format is as critical as the message itself. Posting a product demo on a platform hungry for entertainment, or a short-form vertical clip where an in-depth tutorial is needed, can mean the difference between getting ignored and gaining a customer. Understanding the distinct types of videos and their strategic applications is key to making your content work for you, not against you.

This comprehensive guide moves beyond generic advice to give you a strategic breakdown of 12 essential video formats. We'll explore not only what they are, but precisely how to use them to achieve specific business goals. This includes building brand awareness, establishing thought leadership, driving qualified leads, and fostering community, with a special focus on strategies that resonate with Reddit's discerning audience.

For each type, you'll get actionable insights, recommended lengths, production tips, and practical examples tailored for SaaS, DTC, and creator brands. Whether you're looking to launch a product, gather candid feedback, or turn subreddit conversations into conversions, this plan will help you select and create videos that deliver measurable results. Forget guesswork; it's time to build a video strategy with purpose.

1. Short-Form Vertical Video (TikTok, Reels, Shorts)

Among the many types of videos available to marketers, short-form vertical video has become a dominant force for grabbing attention. This format, popularized by platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, consists of brief, mobile-optimized clips typically ranging from 15 to 60 seconds. It thrives on algorithmic distribution, meaning content is pushed to users based on their engagement patterns, making it a powerful tool for top-of-funnel awareness.

Hand holding smartphone displaying a short-form video clip, with a coffee cup on a wooden table.

The primary goal is to hook viewers immediately and deliver a concentrated message, often using trending sounds, native filters, and text overlays to feel authentic to the platform. For brands and creators, this video type is excellent for building an audience, driving traffic to other profiles, and sparking initial interest that can be nurtured elsewhere, such as in a niche Reddit community. When creating short-form vertical videos, understanding the optimal duration is crucial for engagement and algorithm performance. For detailed guidance, explore the latest insights on video length sweet spots for TikTok, Reels, and Shorts.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: A founder can create a 30-second Reel showing a unique "hack" within their software, ending with a call-to-action to join their subreddit for an AMA on product features.
For DTC Brands: A clothing brand might use TikTok to showcase a new product in a "get ready with me" style video, then direct viewers to a Reddit thread to discuss styling tips and see customer photos.
For Creators: A podcaster can clip a surprising statistic or a bold statement from their latest episode into a YouTube Short, asking viewers to share their own opinions on the episode's discussion thread on Reddit.

2. Educational/Tutorial Video

Among the different types of videos marketers use, the educational or tutorial video is a cornerstone for building authority and trust. This format provides structured instructional content, teaching viewers how to solve specific problems, understand complex concepts, or accomplish tasks. Typically running between 5 to 20 minutes, these videos often follow a problem-solution-benefit framework. They are incredibly effective for establishing thought leadership and driving qualified traffic by demonstrating genuine expertise.

The main objective is to provide tangible value, answering a viewer's direct question or need. By opening with the benefit the viewer will achieve, you can capture attention and guide them through a clear, step-by-step process. This format is ideal for moving viewers from initial awareness to deeper engagement, making it a perfect tool for funneling an interested audience into a niche Reddit community for more advanced discussions and feedback. When done correctly, tutorial videos position your brand as a helpful resource rather than just a seller.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: A founder can create a detailed "How to Launch Your Product on Reddit" video tutorial, then end with a call-to-action inviting viewers to join their private subreddit for personalized launch feedback.
For DTC Brands: A skincare brand could produce a video explaining the science behind a specific ingredient like niacinamide, then direct viewers to a Reddit thread where users share their own before-and-after results and routines.
For Creators: A growth marketing expert can film a tutorial on conversion optimization tactics, using examples from Reddit ad campaigns, and then guide viewers to a subreddit for a Q&A session on the topic.

3. Unboxing Video

Among the different types of videos, the unboxing video serves a unique role by building anticipation and providing an authentic first look at a product. This format captures the genuine experience of opening a new item, showcasing everything from the packaging quality to the product itself. Typically lasting 5-15 minutes, these videos create a sense of vicarious excitement for the viewer, making them a powerful tool for DTC and eCommerce brands looking to generate buzz and social proof.

Close-up of hands unboxing an orange package with a logo, revealing bubble-wrapped items inside.

The primary goal is to translate the tactile experience of a product into a visual narrative. By slowing down the process, creators can highlight thoughtful design details, sustainable materials, and the overall quality of the customer experience. This transparency is highly valued in communities like Reddit's r/unboxing, where genuine reactions and detailed product examinations drive conversations and purchase decisions. For brands, collaborating with influencers or encouraging customers to create their own unboxing content can spark powerful word-of-mouth marketing.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For DTC Brands: A subscription box company can send its new monthly box to a micro-influencer, who creates a detailed unboxing video. The brand then shares the video and starts a discussion thread in r/subscriptionboxes, asking the community what their favorite item is.
For SaaS: While less common, a company selling a hardware-integrated SaaS product (like a smart POS system) could create an unboxing video of the physical device, demonstrating its premium build quality and easy setup process before diving into the software. This can be shared in relevant tech subreddits.
For Creators: An indie board game creator can film an unboxing of the first production-quality copy of their game, highlighting the card stock, piece quality, and box art. They can then post this in r/boardgames to build hype before a Kickstarter launch.

4. Case Study Video

Case study videos stand out among the many types of videos by providing structured proof of a product or service's value. These are narrative-driven testimonials that document how a specific customer overcame a challenge and achieved measurable results. Following a clear problem-solution-results framework, they serve as powerful social proof, moving beyond simple claims to offer concrete evidence of ROI and effectiveness. This format is exceptionally good for building credibility and persuading prospects who are already in the consideration stage.

The primary goal of a case study video is to build trust and show, not just tell, how a solution works in a real-world scenario. They typically feature authentic client interviews, data visualizations, and a professional narrative to connect emotionally with the viewer while also delivering hard data. For businesses looking to close deals, a well-produced case study can be the final piece of evidence a qualified lead needs. These videos are perfect for sharing in niche subreddits where professionals gather to discuss industry-specific problems and solutions, establishing your brand as a proven performer.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: A CRM company can produce a video showing how a client grew their sales pipeline by 300% in six months. Start the video with the client stating that exact metric, then rewind to show the challenges they faced before implementing the software. Share this in r/sales or r/SaaS to spark a discussion about sales efficiency.
For B2B Agencies: A growth marketing firm that specializes in Reddit can create a detailed case study about a campaign that generated a 5x ROI for a client, highlighting the specific subreddits and tactics used. This provides immense value to other marketers in communities like r/marketing.
For Creators: A startup founder can create a video featuring an early adopter who achieved significant product-market fit validation. This story, backed by user feedback and success metrics, can be shared on subreddits like r/startups to demonstrate traction and attract beta users or investors.

5. Live Stream Video

Among the different types of videos, live stream video offers a unique, real-time connection with an audience. This format involves broadcasting content as it's created, allowing viewers to participate simultaneously through comments, questions, and reactions. Streams can last anywhere from 30 minutes for a quick Q&A to several hours for in-depth events, product launches, or community hangouts. It creates unparalleled opportunities for authentic engagement and direct community involvement.

The primary goal is to foster a two-way conversation, making your audience feel seen and heard. For brands, this format is ideal for building trust, demonstrating transparency, and getting immediate feedback. It's an excellent method for hosting Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions, delivering live workshops, or launching a new product. Success relies on creating a welcoming environment where viewers feel comfortable participating, turning passive observers into active community members.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: A founder can host a live product demo and Q&A on YouTube, announcing it beforehand in relevant communities like r/SaaS and inviting members to come with their questions for a special shout-out.
For DTC Brands: A startup CEO could conduct an AMA on YouTube or Twitch that runs in parallel with a text-based AMA thread in a target subreddit, answering questions from both platforms to maximize reach and engagement.
For Creators: A growth marketer can host a live workshop on Reddit marketing for founders, broadcasting directly to a relevant subreddit or their own profile and encouraging real-time questions from the community.

6. Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Video

Behind-the-scenes (BTS) video pulls back the curtain to show the authentic people, processes, and stories behind a brand or creation. This type of video humanizes a company by revealing everything from company culture and product development to the challenges of a bootstrap journey. Typically 3-10 minutes long, BTS content excels at building trust and a genuine connection with an audience.

Behind-the-scenes shot of three men working with a laptop, filmed by a camera on a tripod.

The primary goal is to foster relatability and transparency, which is highly valued in community-focused environments like Reddit. By showcasing both wins and struggles, brands can build credibility and spark meaningful discussions. This approach moves beyond a simple marketing message to create a shared narrative with viewers, making it a powerful tool for community building and establishing a loyal following. It's one of the most effective types of videos for demonstrating authenticity.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: A startup founder can film their scrappy, early-stage operations, sharing the daily grind and key decisions. This content can be posted in r/startups to start conversations about the bootstrapping journey and get feedback from other entrepreneurs.
For DTC Brands: A sustainable clothing brand could create a video showing its manufacturing process, from sourcing materials to the final stitch. Sharing this in a relevant subreddit allows them to transparently answer questions about ethical production and build trust.
For Creators: A solo developer building a video game can document the creative process, including coding challenges and design breakthroughs. This content can be shared with a niche gaming community on Reddit to build a fanbase before the game even launches.

7. Testimonial/Review Video

Among the most persuasive types of videos, testimonial and review videos act as powerful social proof by featuring real customers sharing authentic experiences. This format builds credibility and trust by showcasing genuine results and recommendations. Typically running between two and five minutes, these videos can feature a single in-depth customer story or a compilation of shorter reviews, making them an effective tool for driving qualified leads and converting prospects who are already considering a solution.

The core goal is to move beyond marketing claims and let happy clients do the selling for you. By presenting unscripted, conversational feedback, brands can address common objections and highlight specific benefits in a relatable way. These videos are perfect for middle-of-funnel and bottom-of-funnel marketing, reassuring potential buyers at the critical decision-making stage. For inspiration on creating persuasive content, explore these powerful testimonial ad examples.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: Record a customer explaining how your platform drove 200% lead growth, then share the video in r/B2Bmarketing with a title like, "Our client’s testimonial on hitting 200% lead growth with our tool. What metrics do you track?"
For DTC Brands: Feature a customer sharing a personal transformation story related to your product. Post it on Reddit in a relevant community (e.g., a skincare product in r/SkincareAddiction) asking for others to share their own "holy grail" product stories.
For Creators: A business coach can create a compilation of clips from clients who achieved specific career milestones after taking a course, then share it in a professional development subreddit to attract new students.

8. Explainer Video (Animated or Live-Action)

When a product, service, or concept is too complex for a simple text description, an explainer video is an essential asset. These concise, visually-driven videos, typically running 2-4 minutes, are designed to make abstract ideas accessible and clear. By using animation, motion graphics, or live-action demonstrations, they communicate value propositions and problem-solving capabilities in a highly digestible format. Explainer videos are a cornerstone for SaaS platforms, as famously demonstrated by Dropbox in its early days to drive adoption.

The goal is to lead with a relatable problem, introduce the solution (your product), and clearly show the positive outcome. By simplifying complex information, these types of videos reduce friction in the customer journey, making them powerful for homepage placement, landing pages, and ad campaigns. They act as a digital elevator pitch, quickly getting prospects to an "aha!" moment and moving them toward a conversion or demo request. For SaaS and fintech companies, this format is indispensable for clarifying functionality and building user confidence.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: Create a two-minute animated explainer that starts with a common user frustration (e.g., disorganized project data). Show how your platform solves this, highlighting 2-3 key features, and end with a call-to-action to join a Reddit AMA in r/SaaS for a deep dive with the founder.
For DTC Brands: A brand selling a technical product, like a high-performance blender, can produce a live-action explainer showing its unique engineering and superior results compared to competitors. The video can direct viewers to a Reddit thread where users share recipes and results.
For Creators: A growth marketing consultant can create a short animated video visualizing a specific Reddit marketing funnel. The video can break down the strategy step-by-step and invite viewers to a private subreddit for exclusive templates and case studies.

9. Product Demo/Feature Walkthrough Video

Among the many types of videos used for converting customers, the product demo or feature walkthrough is a powerful bottom-of-the-funnel asset. This focused video shows a product’s specific functionality in action, often walking viewers through a real-world workflow from start to finish. Instead of just listing features, it demonstrates their tangible benefits, bridging the gap between what a product does and what a customer can achieve with it. This clarity helps reduce purchase friction and attracts highly qualified leads who understand the value proposition.

These videos are a staple for SaaS companies like Asana, HubSpot, and Notion, who use them to illustrate everything from project management workflows to marketing automation setups. By showing the product in a realistic context, often with sample data, they make the solution feel both powerful and accessible. The goal is to move beyond the "what" and show the "how," allowing potential customers to visualize themselves using the tool to solve their specific problems.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: Create a 10-minute walkthrough showing how to set up a lead generation workflow. Start by stating the outcome: "This is how you capture and qualify 20% more leads." Share this video in a relevant subreddit like r/marketing, offering an extended free trial to users who comment with their biggest lead-gen challenge.
For DTC Brands: A brand selling smart home devices could film a 5-minute demo of the setup process and daily use. They can post it in r/homeautomation and ask for feedback on feature clarity, sparking a conversation that builds community trust.
For Creators: An app developer can record a feature walkthrough of their new productivity tool and post it to their personal profile on Reddit. In the title, they can offer to answer questions and give a lifetime discount to the first 50 Redditors who provide feedback in the comments.

10. Interview/Conversation Video

Interview or conversation videos feature an authentic dialogue between two or more people, such as a host and a guest expert. This video type builds credibility through association and offers deep storytelling opportunities. It's an excellent format for sharing specialized insights and building authority, with a typical duration of 20-60 minutes making it suitable for podcast-style YouTube content or long-form social media posts.

The main goal is to explore a topic in depth by drawing on the guest's unique perspective and experience. These videos are less about a hard sell and more about providing genuine value, making them a powerful tool for community engagement. By bringing on guests your audience respects, you can grow your own following and foster discussions in related online spaces, like a dedicated subreddit where viewers can ask follow-up questions or share their own related experiences.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: A founder could interview a prominent Reddit marketer to discuss successful growth strategies, then share clips of the interview in relevant subreddits with a link to the full discussion.
For DTC Brands: A brand owner can interview a loyal customer about their journey with the product, focusing on the problem it solved. This humanizes the brand and creates authentic testimonial content perfect for sharing in niche communities.
For Creators: A growth marketer can host a live conversation with other platform experts to discuss Reddit-specific tactics, then encourage viewers to join a private subreddit for exclusive Q&As and content.

11. Podcast/Audio-First Video (with Visuals)

This format repurposes audio-first content, like a podcast, into a video asset by adding simple visual elements. It is an effective method among the various types of videos for creators looking to expand their reach onto video platforms without the burden of high-production visuals. These videos often feature static slides, speaker footage, or guest interactions, with durations typically running from 30 to 120 minutes. The core value is the in-depth audio discussion, making it a powerful tool for building authority and engaging audiences on platforms like YouTube.

The primary goal is to make long-form audio content discoverable to a new audience that prefers video consumption. For thought leaders and brands, this video type is excellent for establishing expertise on complex topics, such as growth strategies or SaaS development, and building a loyal following. The visual component, while secondary, adds a layer of engagement that pure audio lacks. Promoting these extended episodes in relevant subreddits can drive significant traffic and attract a highly engaged audience interested in the specific subject matter.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: A B2B SaaS company can film their weekly growth marketing podcast, discussing Reddit-specific tactics. They can then share clips in subreddits like r/SaaS, with a link to the full YouTube episode for a deep dive.
For DTC Brands: The founder of a niche DTC brand can host a podcast sharing entrepreneurial insights and stories. They can post the video version to YouTube and promote it in communities like r/smallbusiness, connecting with other founders.
For Creators: A marketing professional can record their interview-style podcast with guest experts, using a split-screen view. They can then create a Reddit post highlighting a key takeaway from the guest, linking to the timestamped video discussion.

12. User-Generated Content (UGC) Video

Of all the types of videos, User-Generated Content (UGC) offers a powerful way to build trust and authenticity. This format involves videos created by your actual customers, community members, or brand advocates rather than your official marketing team. These videos, which can range from quick 15-second testimonials to 3-minute product demonstrations, provide genuine social proof and fuel organic, word-of-mouth growth.

The primary goal of UGC is to showcase real-world experiences, building a sense of community and credibility that professionally produced content often struggles to match. For brands, this video type is excellent for gathering authentic testimonials and creative use cases that resonate with prospective customers. By encouraging submissions through hashtags or community challenges, you can organize a steady stream of content while making your audience feel valued. For more on the strategic impact of UGC, consider exploring how it can build community and drive brand loyalty.

Actionable Insights & Examples

For SaaS: Launch a campaign asking users to record a short video of their favorite "a-ha" moment using your software. Feature the best submissions in a dedicated subreddit, with the winner receiving a free year of service.
For DTC Brands: Repost customer unboxing and review videos from a dedicated Reddit community to your official social media channels, always giving proper credit to the original creator. This shows appreciation and encourages more submissions.
For Creators: Challenge your audience to create video responses to a specific podcast topic or question, then compile the most insightful clips into a follow-up community discussion video.

12 Video Types Comparison

Format	🔄 Implementation Complexity	⚡ Resource Requirements	📊 Expected Outcomes	💡 Ideal Use Cases	⭐ Key Advantages
Short-Form Vertical Video (TikTok, Reels, Shorts)	Low — fast iteration, simple edits	Low — smartphone + basic editing	High awareness & engagement; limited deep conversion	Top-of-funnel awareness, traffic to Reddit threads	Very high engagement; rapid A/B testing
Educational / Tutorial Video	Medium-High — needs structure and pedagogy	Medium-High — expertise, recording/editing time	Authority building; sustained organic traffic	Lead gen, SEO-driven answers, subreddit how-tos	Establishes expertise; evergreen value
Unboxing Video	Low — simple shoot, minimal editing	Low-Medium — product samples, basic kit	Buzz and shareability; strong product interest	DTC launches, subscription boxes, product communities	Authentic first impressions; packaging showcase
Case Study Video	High — narrative + data + permissions	High — client coordination, production, data viz	High-qualified leads; concrete ROI proof	B2B/SaaS sales enablement, industry subreddits	Measurable social proof; strong credibility
Live Stream Video	Medium — realtime moderation & tech prep	Medium — streaming setup, host + moderator	Immediate engagement; community bonding; variable retention	AMAs, product demos, live Q&A with Reddit sync	Real-time interaction; repurposeable recordings
Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Video	Low-Medium — candid capture, curation	Low — on-site footage, minimal crew	Improved brand affinity and relatability	Founder stories, culture posts, process reveals	Humanizes brand; fosters trust and authenticity
Testimonial / Review Video	Medium — find and guide customers	Medium — customer scheduling, filming	Strong conversion lift; objection handling	Conversion-focused posts, validation in niche subs	Credible peer validation; high purchase influence
Explainer Video (Animated or Live-Action)	Medium-High — scripting + design	High — animation/production budget	Clear value communication; higher landing conversions	Landing pages, complex product messaging	Simplifies complexity; proven conversion lift
Product Demo / Feature Walkthrough	Medium — up-to-date demos & scripting	Medium — screen capture, product access	Reduces sales friction; pre-qualifies leads	Feature launches, onboarding, support clips	Shows tangible workflows and ROI potential
Interview / Conversation Video	Medium — guest booking + moderation	Medium — multi-camera/audio, scheduling	Authority & long-form engagement; repurposeable	Thought leadership, moderator/insider interviews	Credibility via association; deep insights
Podcast / Audio-First Video (with Visuals)	Low-Medium — audio-focused production	Medium — strong audio gear, editing time	Loyal audience growth; long watch-time value	Recurring deep-dive episodes, cross-platform reach	Easy repurposing; strong audience retention
User-Generated Content (UGC) Video	Low (to brand) — relies on community	Low — sourcing, permissions, curation	High authenticity and organic advocacy	Social proof campaigns, community-driven promotions	Highest authenticity; low production cost

From Plan to Production: Executing Your Video Strategy

You’ve just explored a complete playbook of twelve distinct types of videos, from the rapid-fire engagement of Short-Form Vertical Video to the trust-building power of Case Studies. The goal was never to master all twelve formats at once. Instead, the real power lies in strategically selecting the right tool for the right job, aligning each video with your specific business goals, resources, and audience.

This detailed breakdown reveals a crucial truth: every video format serves a different purpose in the customer journey. You wouldn't use a highly detailed Product Demo to capture cold top-of-funnel attention, just as you wouldn't rely on a 15-second Reel to close a complex B2B deal. The key is to match the format to the mission.

From Knowledge to Action: Your Next Steps

The next logical move is to transition from learning to doing. Don't let the sheer number of options lead to paralysis. Your task now is to build a simple, actionable plan based on what you've learned.

Identify Your Primary Goal: What is the single most important thing you need to achieve right now?
- Awareness? Start with Short-Form Vertical Videos or engaging BTS content.
- Credibility? Focus on Educational Tutorials or in-depth Interviews.
- Conversion? Prioritize Product Demos, Testimonials, and Case Study Videos.
Assess Your Resources: Be realistic about your time, budget, and skills.
- Low Budget/Time: UGC, simple Testimonials, and screen-recorded Tutorials are excellent starting points.
- Higher Investment: Animated Explainers and polished Case Studies require more resources but often deliver significant returns.
Choose One Pilot Project: Select a single video type from this list that aligns with your goal and resources. Commit to producing one pilot video. For example, a SaaS founder might decide their first project is a two-minute Feature Walkthrough video to add to their website's pricing page. A DTC brand could aim to source three UGC-style unboxing clips to test in their next ad campaign.

Key Insight: The most successful video strategies are not built in a day. They are assembled piece by piece, with each new video format adding another layer of connection with the audience. Your first video is a data point, not a final verdict.

The Value of Strategic Selection

Mastering these different types of videos is about more than just filling a content calendar. It’s about building a versatile communication toolkit that allows you to speak to different audience segments at different stages of their journey. A well-executed Explainer Video can clarify your value proposition in 90 seconds, saving your sales team hours of repetitive conversations. A library of strong Testimonial Videos acts as a permanent, 24/7 sales force, building social proof while you sleep.

The true value is creating a content engine that works for you, generating leads, educating users, and building a loyal community around your brand. By understanding the unique strengths of each format, you can create a more effective, efficient, and impactful video marketing strategy. Your journey starts not with producing everything, but with producing the right thing first.

Navigating the specific cultures of platforms like Reddit is crucial for video success, but it can be a challenge. If you want to ensure your chosen video formats are perfectly matched to the right subreddits for maximum impact, consider partnering with a specialist. The team at Reddit Agency can help you develop a content strategy that resonates authentically with Reddit communities, turning your video efforts into measurable growth.