Can't Comment on YouTube Shorts: Troubleshooting Guide
Learn why you might be unable to comment on YouTube Shorts and follow step-by-step fixes for common causes on both desktop and mobile devices.
Can't Comment on YouTube Shorts: Troubleshooting Guide
YouTube Shorts are bite‑sized videos designed for quick entertainment, but sometimes viewers encounter the frustrating issue of being unable to comment. If you’re searching for ways to fix the can’t comment on YouTube Shorts problem, this guide will explain the most common causes and walk you through practical solutions for both desktop and mobile users.
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Understanding YouTube Shorts and Common Commenting Issues
Before getting to the fixes, it helps to know why comment functionality might differ between Shorts and long‑form YouTube videos. Although Shorts use the same commenting system, some unique factors can stop you from posting.
Common causes include:
- The creator has disabled comments.
- Your account has restrictions or strikes.
- Technical glitches in the app or browser.
- Age‑related or regional limitations.
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Check if the Creator Has Disabled Comments
Creators can disable comments for specific videos directly in YouTube Studio. This policy applies equally to Shorts.
How to check:
- Scroll below the video — if you see “Comments are turned off,” it’s by the creator’s choice.
- Disabling may be temporary (for moderation) or permanent.
If comments are disabled at the channel level, you cannot post on any of their content.
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Ensure You Are Signed In to Your YouTube/Google Account
Without being signed in, you won’t be able to write comments.
On Desktop:
- Look for the “Sign In” button in the top‑right corner and log in with your Google credentials.
On Mobile:
- Tap your profile icon in the YouTube app to check your login status.
When signed out, the comment field may be hidden or prompt you to log in.
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Verify Your Account is in Good Standing
YouTube limits commenting privileges for accounts:
- With Community Guidelines strikes.
- That are temporarily suspended.
- Under age restrictions (usually under 13).
Check your status:
- Open YouTube Studio.
- Navigate to Settings > Channel > Status and features.
- Look for any strikes or restrictions.
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Review and Adjust YouTube Comment Settings
Your own settings can block you from posting.
On Desktop:
- Click your profile picture > Settings.
- Select Privacy.
- Disable settings that hide your interactions.
On Mobile:
- Open the YouTube App and tap your profile.
- Go to Settings > General > Comments.
- Ensure you aren’t restricting your ability to post.
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Disable and Re-enable the Comments Filter in YouTube Studio
For creators troubleshooting their own Shorts, spam filters may be overly restrictive.
Steps:
- In YouTube Studio, go to Settings > Community > Defaults.
- Temporarily toggle off Hold potentially inappropriate comments for review.
- Save changes, then toggle back on if desired.
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Clear Browser Cache or Update the YouTube App
Old cached data can interfere with comment loading.
On Desktop:
- Clear browser cache and cookies.
- Update to the latest browser version.
On Mobile:
- Update the YouTube app via Google Play or App Store.
- Restart the app afterward.
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Check for Restricted Mode or Parental Controls
Restricted Mode can block entire comment sections.
To disable:
- Desktop: Scroll to page bottom, find Restricted Mode, toggle off.
- Mobile: Profile > Settings > General > Restricted Mode > toggle off.
If parental controls via Family Link are on, a guardian must adjust settings.
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Understand Regional or Content‑Based Comment Restrictions
Legal compliance can lead to commenting limits:
- COPPA rules classify some content as “Made for Kids,” disabling comments.
- Certain countries enforce category‑specific bans.
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Try Commenting on Another Shorts Video
Test if the problem is isolated:
- If other Shorts allow commenting, the issue is with one video’s settings.
- If none do, your account or app may be the cause.
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Contact YouTube Support or Use YouTube Help Community
If nothing works:
- Use Help > Send feedback in the app/site.
- Post on the YouTube Help Community forum with details.
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Tips to Avoid Future Problems
Prevent repeat issues:
- Keep your account in good standing.
- Update the YouTube app regularly.
- Review your privacy and comment settings frequently.
- Follow YouTube’s community rules.
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Quick Reference Table of Troubleshooting Steps
| Step | Action | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Check creator settings | Verify if comments are disabled | Desktop / Mobile |
| Sign in | Ensure logged into Google account | Desktop / Mobile |
| Account standing | Confirm no strikes or age limits | Desktop / Mobile |
| Comment settings | Review privacy & comment permissions | Desktop / Mobile |
| Comments filter refresh | Toggle inappropriate comments filter | Desktop |
| Cache/App update | Clear browser cache or update app | Desktop / Mobile |
| Restricted Mode | Disable restricted mode & parental controls | Desktop / Mobile |
| Regional restrictions | Check local laws/content category | Desktop / Mobile |
| Alternate video test | Try commenting on another Shorts | Desktop / Mobile |
| Contact support | Reach YouTube via feedback/help forum | Desktop / Mobile |
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Conclusion and Recap
Facing a can’t comment on YouTube Shorts situation can be frustrating, but most issues have clear solutions. From checking if the creator has disabled comments, ensuring you’re signed in, updating apps or browsers, and adjusting privacy settings, each step increases the chance of restoring your ability to engage.
If all else fails, official support channels and the YouTube community can help diagnose and resolve deeper problems. Stay updated, follow guidelines, and keep your account in good standing — that way you can continue enjoying and interacting with your favorite Shorts videos without interruption.
Ready to comment again? Apply these steps today and rejoin the conversation on YouTube Shorts.
