How to Logout of YouTube

YouTube is one of the most widely used platforms in the world, and most people access it daily on multiple devices. Whether you are on a computer, smartphone, tablet or smart TV, you may sometimes need to log out of your account. Logging out is useful if you are switching accounts, sharing a device or simply want more privacy. The process is straightforward, but it varies slightly depending on the device you are using.

Logging Out on Desktop

If you are using YouTube on a web browser such as Chrome, Safari or Edge, logging out is simple. Go to the YouTube homepage and look at the top right corner. You will see your profile picture or initial. Click on it to open the account menu. At the bottom of this menu is the “Sign out” option. Selecting this will log you out and return you to YouTube’s main homepage. You can still browse videos without being logged in, but your personalised recommendations, history and subscriptions will no longer be visible.

Logging Out on Mobile Devices

On the YouTube mobile app, logging out works a little differently. Open the app and tap your profile picture in the top right. From here, select “Switch account” or “Manage accounts on this device.” You can then remove the account you are signed in with, which effectively logs you out. On some devices, you may also see a direct “Sign out” option. The wording may vary depending on whether you are using an iPhone or Android device, but the steps are similar.

Logging Out on Smart TVs and Consoles

If you use YouTube on a smart TV, streaming stick or games console, you will usually find the logout option in the settings menu. Open the YouTube app, go to the left-hand navigation menu and scroll down to “Settings.” There you will see the option to “Sign out” or “Remove account.” Selecting this will unlink your Google account from the device. This is particularly important if you are using a shared household device and do not want others accessing your account or recommendations.

Why Logging Out Matters

Logging out of YouTube is about more than privacy. It ensures that your viewing history, subscriptions and recommendations remain personal to you. If you stay logged in on a shared computer or smart TV, others can see your activity and even accidentally unsubscribe from channels or change your settings. Logging out also allows you to sign in with another account if you run multiple YouTube channels or share a device with family or colleagues.

Troubleshooting Logout Issues

Sometimes the option to log out may not appear obvious, especially on mobile devices. If you cannot find it, go to your device’s account settings and remove the Google account linked to YouTube. This will automatically sign you out. If you are on a work or school device managed by an organisation, the logout option may be restricted, and you may need to contact the administrator for help.

Conclusion

Logging out of YouTube is quick and easy once you know where to look. On desktop, it is done from the profile menu. On mobile, it is found in the account settings. On smart TVs and consoles, it is located within the app’s settings menu. Taking the time to log out keeps your account secure, protects your viewing history and gives you the flexibility to sign in with other accounts when needed.