why can't i see comments on youtube

3 min read 16-04-2025

YouTube comments are a vital part of the platform's community aspect. They allow viewers to share thoughts, ask questions, and engage with creators and other viewers. However, sometimes you might find yourself unable to see them. This article will troubleshoot common reasons why you can't see YouTube comments and offer solutions.

Common Reasons Why You Can't See YouTube Comments

There are several reasons why you might be facing this frustrating issue. Let's break them down:

1. Comment Section is Hidden or Restricted

Creator Settings: The most straightforward reason is that the YouTube creator has disabled comments on the video. This is a common practice for videos that attract excessive spam, negativity, or irrelevant discussions. There's nothing you can do in this case; the comments are simply unavailable.
Age Restrictions: Some videos may have age restrictions. If the video is marked as inappropriate for your age, the comment section may be hidden until you verify your age.
Live Streams: During live streams, comments may be temporarily unavailable or delayed while YouTube processes the influx of real-time comments. Be patient – comments usually become visible shortly after the live stream concludes.
Community Guidelines Violation: If a video has violated YouTube's Community Guidelines, YouTube might hide the comments temporarily pending review.

2. Technical Issues

Browser Problems: Outdated or corrupted browser cache and cookies can interfere with various website features, including the comment section. Clearing your cache and cookies is often a quick fix.
YouTube App Glitches: Sometimes, issues with the YouTube app itself can prevent comments from loading. Try restarting the app, updating it to the latest version, or even reinstalling it if the problem persists.
Network Connectivity Issues: A weak or unstable internet connection can affect the loading of various elements of a webpage, including the comment section. Check your internet connection and try again later.
Ad Blockers: While ad blockers are designed to remove advertisements, some might unintentionally block the comment section as well. Temporarily disabling your ad blocker can help determine if this is the cause.
VPN Interference: If you're using a VPN, it could be interfering with YouTube's ability to load comments. Try temporarily disconnecting your VPN to see if this resolves the problem.

3. Account-Specific Problems

Account Restrictions: YouTube might restrict commenting privileges due to violations of Community Guidelines. This usually involves repeated policy violations. Check your account for any notifications regarding restrictions.
Age Verification: Ensure your YouTube account is verified for your age, especially if you're accessing videos with age restrictions.

4. Check for YouTube Updates

Make sure you have the most up-to-date version of the YouTube app and that your browser is also current. Outdated software can create compatibility problems and lead to unexpected issues, including the inability to load comments.

How to Troubleshoot YouTube Comment Issues

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you resolve the issue:

Restart your device and browser/app. This often resolves temporary glitches.
Check your internet connection. Ensure you have a stable connection.
Clear your browser cache and cookies. This eliminates potentially corrupted data. (Instructions vary depending on your browser.)
Disable your ad blocker (temporarily). See if this restores comment visibility.
Update the YouTube app (if using the app). Ensure you have the latest version installed.
Reinstall the YouTube app (if necessary). A fresh install can resolve persistent app problems.
Check YouTube's status page. This will tell you if YouTube is experiencing widespread outages.
Check your YouTube account settings. Look for restrictions on commenting privileges.
Contact YouTube support. If all else fails, reach out to YouTube support for assistance.

By systematically checking these points, you'll likely identify and resolve why you can't see YouTube comments, restoring your access to the vibrant YouTube community. Remember that some videos simply have comments disabled by the uploader.