Both can change your life. They work very differently.
Growth Speed
TikTok wins. New accounts can hit 100K in months. YouTube takes 1-2 years for the same. TikTok's stranger-first algorithm is unmatched for speed.
Money
YouTube wins. RPMs of $2-$15 vs TikTok's fractions. A YouTuber with 100K subs often out-earns a TikToker with 1M followers. Long-form = premium ads.
Longevity
YouTube wins. Videos earn for years via search. TikToks die in days. YouTube builds an asset; TikTok builds a moment.
The Verdict
Start on TikTok for speed and confidence, graduate to YouTube for income and longevity. Or do both: TikTok for discovery, YouTube for depth. Many top creators run this exact funnel.