16 Types of UGC Content for Brands

User-generated video content (UGC) is an excellent opportunity for brands of all sizes and industries.

No matter what you sell, there are multiple formats you can explore to create authentic, relatable, and effective content.

Let’s take a look at 16 types of UGC content your brand can create:

1. Unboxing Videos

Unboxing videos show creators unpacking a product and sharing their genuine first impressions.

This format is powerful because it conveys real excitement and surprise to the audience — viewers feel like they’re discovering the product alongside the creator. Unboxings also help generate organic content that can be repurposed for ads.

On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, unboxing videos are extremely popular and generate millions of posts. Strategies like gifting products to creators or running seeding campaigns help brands obtain authentic reactions and “ad-ready” content that doesn’t feel forced.

2. Product-in-Action Videos

This format focuses on showing how products work in real-life situations, highlighting practical uses and tangible benefits.

The key principle is “show, don’t tell” — allowing consumers to see real results instead of reading about them. It’s especially useful for products with standout or innovative features.

Keep it simple: let creators focus on demonstrating the results customers can expect and how the product delivers on its promise. This builds trust and helps close the gap between expectation and experience.

3. Before-and-After Videos

Before-and-after videos showcase a transformation or the result of using a product.

This format is effective because viewers can see immediate, comparable results. For example, showing a before-and-after skincare routine or style change is far more persuasive than static images.

The more visible the difference, the greater the impact on your audience — and the stronger the trust in your brand.

4. Product Testing and Reaction Videos

In these videos, creators test products for the first time and capture their genuine reactions.

This content builds trust and engagement, as authentic reactions are far more appealing than scripted ads.

They’re especially popular on TikTok, where users love watching others try viral or newly launched products.

The secret is authenticity — honest creator reactions drive comments, shares, and visibility naturally.

5. Explainer Videos

These short tutorial-style videos simplify complex information about a product, explaining how it works and why it’s useful.

They’re ideal for products with technical features or special ingredients — from cosmetics and food to tech gadgets.

UGC explainer videos work best when concise and clear. Avoid heavy jargon or too many details; let creators explain in their own way using simple, relatable examples.

6. How-To or Routine Videos

These videos show how to incorporate products into daily routines — skincare, makeup, styling, cooking, etc.

What makes them effective is their authenticity and relatability. Viewers connect with creators and imagine how they could use the products in their own lives.

This format also allows for more detailed demonstrations than photos, showcasing real functionality and value.

7. Tips or Life Hack Videos

Life hacks are quick, creative tips that show consumers how to use products practically to make daily tasks easier.

These videos encourage sharing, boosting organic reach and engagement. Viewers often save them for future reference, helping brands stay top of mind.

8. GRWM (“Get Ready With Me”) Videos

In this format, creators naturally integrate products into their daily routines.

These videos help audiences visualize how products fit into their own lives. When presented organically, products feel useful and desirable.

Even short clips can generate strong engagement if viewers relate to the creator and want to know where to buy the products.

9. Product Review and Recommendation Videos

These videos feature honest reviews and personal recommendations, aiming to build trust through the creator’s direct testimony.

When done right, review videos feel genuine and reliable — much more than brand-generated content. Today’s consumers seek real opinions from real people before making a purchase.

10. Customer Testimonial Videos

These go a step beyond reviews by featuring real customers sharing their positive experiences with a product.

This content strengthens loyalty and authentic storytelling. Testimonials from satisfied customers add credibility and help new buyers trust the brand.

11. POV (Point of View) Videos

In POV videos, creators show their perspective in first person, demonstrating how they use a product in daily life.

This immersive format makes viewers feel part of the experience. Micro-influencers and UGC creators excel in this type of authentic storytelling, conveying closeness and trust.

12. “A Day in the Life” Videos

Creators document their daily activities, naturally integrating products into their routines.

This format is ideal for organic product placement — products don’t feel forced or like direct ads. It helps audiences see the product’s value in a real, relatable context.

13. Problem-Solving Videos

These videos show how a product solves a specific problem or meets a concrete need.

They’re highly effective because they position the product as practical and functional. Like life hacks, these videos are often saved and shared, increasing organic reach.

14. “This or That” or Poll Videos

This interactive format invites audiences to choose between two products or styles.

It encourages participation, comments, and engagement while helping brands gather insight into consumer preferences. Polls are appealing because they invite audiences to share opinions, boosting virality.

15. Gift Reveal and First Impression Videos

Creators show products they’ve received as gifts or through seeding campaigns, sharing their first impressions and excitement.

This keeps audiences engaged as they anticipate the creator’s reaction, conveying authenticity and emotion. It’s ideal for building hype before a product launch or special promotion.

16. Product Launch or Announcement Videos

UGC creators build anticipation by showcasing or announcing a new product on behalf of a brand.

This format is perfect for creating buzz, offering sneak peeks, and generating excitement before a launch. It also allows consumers to see products in action — authentically and in real contexts.

From customer testimonials to creative product hacks, UGC videos offer countless opportunities for brands to showcase real experiences and build genuine connections on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

Looking ahead, brands that successfully adopt and encourage user-generated content — while maintaining proper management practices — will have a significant advantage in connecting with their target audiences.