12 Most Subscribed Youtubers: Why They're on Top

For content creators looking to boost their subscriber count, YouTube offers a world of inspiration from its top creators. With over 2.7 billion active users, YouTube remains the premier video platform, where millions of channels compete for views and engagement.

From the thrilling challenges of MrBeast to the educational fun of CoComelon, these creators have each mastered unique strategies that resonate with audiences worldwide.

In this article, we'll dive into the channels with the highest subscriber numbers, revealing the secrets behind their success and what makes them stand out. 

Whether you're a new creator or looking to refine your approach, these insights from YouTube’s most-subscribed channels offer inspiration to help you take your own channel to the next level.

The Evolution of YouTube and Its Impact

Since its launch in 2005, YouTube has evolved from a simple video-sharing platform into a significant hub for entertainment, education, and influence.

Originally designed for individuals to upload and share videos, YouTube has become a cultural phenomenon, shaping how people consume content. The platform has played a crucial role in democratizing media, allowing anyone with a camera and creativity to become a potential influencer.

This transformation has led to the rise of "YouTubers," who are now household names, impacting trends and creating communities around their content.

YouTube's influence has also extended beyond entertainment, serving as an educational tool, where users can find tutorials, lectures, and other informational content. This versatility has allowed the platform to cater to diverse interests, making it essential for anyone looking to build a brand or share their passion.

As a result, many content creators have achieved massive success, drawing millions of views and subscribers to their channels.

Who Are the Most Subscribed YouTubers?

As of 2024, the following YouTubers have made their mark by accumulating millions of subscribers, showcasing the diversity of content available on the platform:

1. MrBeast 

Jimmy Donaldson, famously known as MrBeast, is a groundbreaking American YouTuber, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who has redefined the YouTube landscape with his high-stakes challenges, extravagant giveaways, and relentless philanthropy.

With over 327 million subscribers as of November 2024, MrBeast’s channel holds the top spot on YouTube for its subscriber count, an achievement fueled by his inventive approach to content creation.

His videos often feature costly stunts, such as giving away millions of dollars, private islands, and high-end cars, all crafted to surprise his viewers and create viral, unforgettable moments.

MrBeast also champions large-scale philanthropic initiatives, such as raising $20 million to plant 20 million trees and donating millions to various charities.

This unique blend of extreme generosity and high-budget entertainment has earned him widespread recognition, including multiple Creator of the Year Streamy Awards (2020-2023) and Favorite Male Creator at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards (2022-2024).

2. T-Series

T-Series, India’s largest music label and film production powerhouse, has cemented itself as one of YouTube’s most-subscribed channels, boasting an impressive global following due to its vast catalog of Bollywood music videos, lyric videos, remixes, and film trailers.

With a subscriber count reaching 278 million as of late-2024, T-Series owes its monumental success to its unique position in India’s thriving entertainment industry and the sheer volume of content it releases daily.

Established in the 1980s, T-Series has become a cultural staple, delivering content in various Indian languages and catering to the country’s massive population while attracting viewers worldwide.

The channel’s rise was marked by a fierce competition with PewDiePie for YouTube’s top spot, which it ultimately secured thanks to a blend of Bollywood’s broad appeal and T-Series' consistent output.

In addition to its primary channel, T-Series operates over 29 additional YouTube channels, each offering a different slice of India’s music and cinematic culture.

3. Cocomelon

Children’s channels on YouTube have soared in popularity, largely because they offer young viewers a fun, engaging way to learn and be entertained—often independently, giving parents a much-needed break.

CoComelon - Nursery Rhymes, an American channel specializing in vibrant 3D animations of classic nursery rhymes and original children’s songs, has risen to the top, becoming the most-viewed YouTube channel in the U.S. and the most-subscribed children’s channel worldwide, reaching 185 million subscribers as of late-2024. 

The secret to CoComelon's success lies in its captivating, family-friendly animations, which feature relatable characters—children, adults, and animals—going about daily life, with catchy lyrics displayed on screen.

This combination of education and entertainment keeps young viewers engaged and learning foundational skills, from counting to social interaction, through colorful, easy-to-follow scenes.

CoComelon's universal appeal has even led to deals with Netflix, proving its status as a powerhouse in children’s media and a trusted favorite for families worldwide.

4. SET India 

India’s massive and engaged audience has made it one of the most vibrant markets on YouTube, and SET India is a prime example of this success.

SET India, short for Sony Entertainment Television India, is a Hindi-language channel owned by Sony Pictures that brings the beloved content of one of India’s leading television channels to a global digital audience.

With 179 million subscribers as of late-2024, SET India has risen to become one of YouTube’s most popular channels by offering a 24-hour stream of family-friendly entertainment that spans genres like drama, thrillers, comedies, game shows, and dance competitions.

This channel’s success is powered by a steady release schedule—up to 30 to 40 videos daily—that provides highlights, recaps, and even full episodes of popular shows, appealing to audiences in India and beyond.

Supported by Sony’s brand recognition and high-quality production values, SET India has become a household name and a prime example of how traditional media can thrive on digital platforms, reaching fans worldwide who can enjoy its top-tier content anytime.

5. Vlad and Niki

Children’s content continues to dominate YouTube as kids everywhere are drawn to fun, relatable personalities who turn everyday moments into exciting adventures.

Vlad and Niki, two Russian-American brothers, have captured the imaginations of young audiences worldwide, earning over 127 million subscribers with their lively, family-friendly videos that blend creativity, humor, and boundless energy.

Since launching their first channel in 2018, the duo has expanded into multiple channels, such as Vlad and Niki Arabic and Vlad and Niki IDN, making their content accessible to a global audience.

Each video is crafted with a mix of live-action, animation, and music, presenting playful stories and sometimes featuring beloved brands like Paw Patrol.

Unlike many kids' channels focused on education, Vlad and Niki emphasize pure fun, creating an entertaining space where kids can watch peers embark on wild, imaginative adventures.

6. Kids Diana Show 

Tied with Vlad and Niki at 127 subscribers, Kids Diana Show is another popular channel dedicated to children that stars Eva Diana Kidisyuk, a Ukrainian-American girl who has charmed viewers worldwide with her playful adventures and positive personality.

Diana ranks as the fifth most-subscribed YouTuber globally, with a combined 200 million subscribers across multiple channels, captivating millions of young fans.

The channel, created by her parents in 2015, follows Diana and her brother Roma as they explore new experiences, try out challenges, and share kid-friendly lessons along the way.

Each episode is a lively mix of live-action, animation, and music, making it a go-to source of entertainment for preschoolers and young children. Available in over 20 languages, Kids Diana Show has expanded to include more than 20 channels, garnering an astonishing 10 billion views each month.

Unlike educationally-focused channels, Kids Diana Show is built around fun, imaginative stories that not only engage children but also provide parents with a positive role model. Diana’s natural curiosity, paired with the channel’s high-quality production and global reach, has made YouTube channel a staple for families everywhere looking for joyful, family-friendly content.

7. Like Nastya

By now, you might be wondering if this entire list is dedicated to kid-centric content—and you wouldn’t be far off!

Like Nastya, led by Russian-American Anastasia Radzinskaya, known affectionately as "Nastya," is yet another children’s YouTube channel that has captivated global audiences.

Born in 2014, Nastya started her channel in Russia, initially focusing on toy unboxings. Since then, the channel has evolved to showcase her adventures with her parents at amusement parks around the world, along with playful, educational experiences.

Now based in Florida, Nastya has amassed an impressive 121 million subscribers, becoming a beloved figure among young audiences who connect with her friendly, imaginative spirit.

Her content stands out due to its mix of learning, play, and music, all designed to spark curiosity and joy in children. It's even dubbed in multiple languages, making Nastya's videos accessible to kids worldwide and expanding her fan base even further. 

8. Zee Music Company 

India’s love for music and Bollywood cinema has fueled the rise of channels like Zee Music Company, which has become one of YouTube’s most-subscribed music channels.

Despite launching only in 2014, Zee Music Company has quickly gained millions of subscribers, currently boasting 111 million, by sharing official music videos from some of Bollywood’s biggest hits.

Owned by the media giant Zee Entertainment Enterprises, Zee Music holds the rights to an impressive catalog of Bollywood tracks, making it a go-to destination for fans seeking the latest in Indian music.

While Zee may not post as frequently as its competitors like T-Series or SET India, its high-quality content and exclusive access to popular Bollywood songs ensure a steady flow of viewers.

This diverse offering has positioned Zee Music Company as a significant player in the Bollywood music scene and highlights the powerful influence of Indian audiences on YouTube’s global landscape.

9. PewDiePie (Felix Kjellberg)

Once the undisputed king of YouTube, Swedish creator Felix Kjellberg, better known as PewDiePie, held the title of the most-subscribed individual YouTuber for years and remains a cultural staple within the platform.

Though he now ranks lower among YouTube's most-subscribed channels—with 110 million subscribers—PewDiePie still commands a massive fanbase and boasts an impressive legacy after celebrating his 13th anniversary on the platform.

Known initially for his gaming videos on titles like Minecraft and Call of Duty, PewDiePie’s witty, often irreverent commentary won over millions of subscribers. His content evolved to include meme reviews, vlogs, and collaborations with other well-known YouTubers, cementing his influence on the site.

Though his career saw its share of controversy over his earlier language choices, PewDiePie’s channel has mellowed in recent years, especially as he shifted focus toward his personal life, including becoming a father in 2023 and documenting his experiences living in Japan with his wife, Marzia.

His authenticity and relatability have built a loyal following that appreciates his growth, with many fans expressing nostalgia and lifelong support in his video comments. While his uploads have slowed, PewDiePie’s legacy as a pioneer in YouTube culture continues to shape the platform and inspire creators worldwide.

10. WWE

The WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) has made a significant comeback in recent years, and its YouTube channel has successfully capitalized on fans' love for action, drama, and unforgettable moments in sports entertainment.

With over 100 million subscribers, the channel has risen to fame by offering fans a front-row seat to the high-energy theatrics of Raw, SmackDown, and NXT, alongside a steady stream of content featuring fan-favorite Superstars, backstage reactions, and exclusive original shows like Top 10 and WWE’s The Bump.

WWE's YouTube presence thrives because it offers easily accessible, bite-sized snippets of the same action-packed storylines and choreographed performances that have captivated fans for decades.

Whether reliving classic bouts or catching up on recent highlights, WWE’s YouTube channel provides a free alternative to pay-per-view and live events, giving fans around the world a chance to experience the excitement of WWE whenever they want. 

11. BLACKPINK 

BLACKPINK’s YouTube channel has taken the world by storm, captivating millions with its mix of powerhouse vocals, sharp choreography, and stylish visuals that define the group’s unique take on K-pop.

Comprised of members Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa, BLACKPINK has amassed over 90 million subscribers, making them one of the most popular music channels on the platform.

Their meteoric rise can be credited to record-breaking music videos like Ddu-Du Ddu-Du, Kill This Love, and How You Like That, each of which shattered viewership records within hours of release.

BLACKPINK’s international appeal is bolstered by their groundbreaking achievements as the highest-charting female Korean act on the Billboard Hot 100 and the first Korean girl group to sell over one million copies of an album with The Album (2020).

The group's YouTube channel not only showcases chart-topping hits but also underscores BLACKPINK's impact on global pop culture, solidifying their place as an iconic group that has redefined the reach of K-pop music.

12. 5-Minute Crafts 

DIY channels have exploded in popularity on YouTube, and 5-Minute Crafts stands at the forefront, offering quick, engaging tutorials that cover everything from life hacks to creative crafts.

Since its launch in 2016, the channel has amassed over 81 million subscribers and uploaded an astounding 7,300 videos, making it a go-to source for anyone looking to pick up new skills, find creative solutions, or just be entertained by fun, quirky projects.

5-Minute Crafts releases multiple videos daily, each packed with tips and tricks that show viewers how to complete everyday tasks or create items from scratch.

This frequent posting schedule and the sheer variety of content—from home organization tips to DIY gifts—have allowed it to reach a massive global audience, solidifying its status as a top instructional channel on YouTube.

What Makes These YouTubers Successful?

The success of these top YouTubers can be attributed to several key factors:

• Engaging and Unique Content: Originality plays a vital role in capturing viewers' attention. Creators who offer something different are more likely to build a loyal subscriber base. For instance, MrBeast's large-scale challenges and charitable acts set him apart in a saturated market, leading to massive growth in his subscriber count.
• Strong Community Interaction: Engaging with audiences fosters loyalty. These YouTubers frequently interact with their viewers through comments, polls, and Q&A sessions, creating a sense of community. PewDiePie, for example, often shares his thoughts on current trends and engages with fans, which builds a strong viewer connection.
• Strategic Branding and Marketing: Effective branding helps in building an identity that viewers can connect with. Collaborations with other creators and brands also enhance visibility and contribute to subscriber growth. Channels like Cocomelon and Like Nastya have established strong branding strategies that resonate with their target audience.

YouTube Algorithm and Its Impact on Subscribers

Understanding YouTube’s algorithm is essential for creators looking to grow their subscriber base. The algorithm determines which videos get promoted across the platform, influencing both visibility and engagement.

For creators, aligning their content with these algorithmic factors can significantly improve their chances of reaching new viewers and attracting subscribers. Here are some key factors that describe how the algorithm works and its impact on subscriber growth:

• Engagement Metrics Matter: YouTube’s algorithm favors videos with high engagement, prioritizing metrics like watch time, viewer retention, click-through rate (CTR), and interactions (likes, comments, shares). Videos that perform well in these areas have a better chance of being recommended to more viewers.
• Viewer Retention Boosts Visibility: Keeping viewers engaged for as long as possible signals to YouTube that a video is valuable. High viewer retention rates increase the likelihood of a video being featured on the home feed, search results, and suggested video lists, ultimately expanding its reach.
• Quick Interaction is Key: Rapid engagement shortly after a video is published can significantly impact its visibility. Videos that quickly gain likes, comments, and shares are more likely to gain momentum, which can push them higher in YouTube’s recommendations.
• Consistency Pays Off: Regular uploads help maintain a channel’s presence in the algorithm, making it more likely to be promoted. Establishing a consistent posting schedule encourages subscribers to keep coming back and builds familiarity with the channel’s content.
• SEO Optimization Helps Discoverability: Using relevant keywords in titles, thumbnails, and descriptions improves a video’s discoverability. This optimization makes it easier for new viewers to find the content in search results, helping to attract potential subscribers.  
• Personalization for Each Viewer: YouTube’s algorithm is designed to tailor recommendations based on individual viewer preferences. The more your content aligns with audience interests, the more likely it is to be recommended, increasing the potential for new subscribers.
• Audience Interaction Builds Loyalty: Engaging with viewers in the comments and responding to feedback strengthens community loyalty. Active interaction not only builds a dedicated fanbase but also signals to YouTube that the creator values their audience, positively impacting recommendations.
• Algorithmic Adaptation: Regularly monitoring analytics helps creators refine their content based on audience behavior. The algorithm favors channels that adapt to viewer preferences, boosting their potential for growth and enhancing their visibility on the platform.

3 Key Lessons for Aspiring YouTubers

For those looking to grow their channels, here are three essential lessons:

1. Find Your Niche

Identifying a specific audience or content focus is crucial for standing out in YouTube’s vast landscape. By concentrating on a particular niche, creators can develop a dedicated viewer base and distinguish themselves from competitors.

For instance, Like Nastya has focused on family-friendly children’s content, building a loyal following among young viewers and parents by creating relatable, playful videos that appeal to kids' interests and encourage educational exploration.

This focus on safe, engaging entertainment has made her channel a go-to choice for families looking for wholesome content.

Narrowing down your content niche—whether it’s tech reviews, fitness advice, or cooking tutorials—helps attract viewers with shared interests, increasing the likelihood of subscriber loyalty and consistent engagement. 

2. Consistency is Key

Regular posting helps to retain viewers, keep the channel active, and satisfy YouTube’s algorithm, which favors channels that post frequently. Establishing a consistent upload schedule encourages subscribers to return, knowing when to expect fresh content.

Many successful YouTube channels, like PewDiePie and 5-Minute Crafts, release new content weekly or even multiple times a week to maintain high viewer engagement, ensuring that their channels stay fresh and relevant in viewers' minds.

This consistent posting not only strengthens audience loyalty but also helps the algorithm recognize their channels as active, boosting their visibility across the platform..

3. Leverage Analytics

YouTube’s analytics tools offer valuable insights into viewer behavior, preferences, and engagement, helping creators refine their content strategies to enhance performance.

By understanding which videos are most popular, where viewers drop off, and which demographics engage most, creators can make data-informed decisions to improve future videos.

MrBeast, for example, monitors his analytics closely to optimize everything from video length to thumbnail style, ensuring each upload resonates with his audience.

Utilizing analytics helps aspiring YouTubers tailor their content more effectively, leading to higher engagement and faster growth.

The Future of YouTube and Its Creators

As technology advances, YouTube is likely to evolve alongside new trends and viewer preferences.

With augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) becomiing more mainstream, YouTube may integrate these immersive experiences, allowing creators to design content that transports viewers directly into new environments or interactive storylines.

Creators who embrace these changes early could see a significant advantage, staying relevant as YouTube pivots toward these cutting-edge technologies.

Beyond AR and VR, YouTube is likely to enhance personalized content delivery, using advanced algorithms to offer viewers precisely what they want, when they want it.

Increased interactivity—such as live polling, real-time feedback, and interactive video elements—may also become more common, allowing creators to engage audiences on a deeper level.

With these shifts, creators must remain adaptable, exploring innovative formats, unique storytelling methods, and cross-platform engagement strategies to meet the ever-changing demands of their audiences and ensure long-term success on the platform.

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You can also offer exclusive membership tiers, giving fans access to special perks, behind-the-scenes content, and live streams—all managed seamlessly through Fourthwall.

Plus, the platform integrates with YouTube's Merch Shelf, helping you showcase your products directly below your videos, making it easy for fans to browse and purchase your merchandise without leaving your channel.

With easy-to-use design tools, global shipping, and payment processing options like Apple Pay, PayPal, and Klarna, Fourthwall is the all-in-one solution to help you earn from your creativity and grow your YouTube channel's income. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to turn your passion into profit—get started with Fourthwall and watch your YouTube channel’s revenue soar!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Characteristics Define a Successful YouTuber?

Successful YouTubers are defined by a combination of creativity, consistency, authenticity, and strong audience engagement. Creativity allows them to produce unique, entertaining content that stands out, while consistency—through regular uploads and a steady posting schedule—keeps viewers coming back for more.

Authenticity is key; successful creators are genuine, showing their true personalities and building trust with their audiences. Additionally, they actively engage with viewers, whether through responding to comments, holding live Q&A sessions, or gathering feedback, which fosters a sense of community and loyalty. These traits together create a solid foundation for a growing subscriber base and long-term success on the platform.

How Do YouTubers Monetize Their Channels?

YouTubers monetize their channels through several key income streams that go beyond ad revenue. Ad revenue, earned through YouTube’s Partner Program, is often a primary source, but many creators also partner with brands for sponsorships, featuring products or services in exchange for payment.

Merchandise sales are another popular strategy, where YouTubers sell branded products—like apparel, accessories, or digital goods—through integrated platforms. Additionally, many creators offer membership options, where fans pay for exclusive perks such as behind-the-scenes content, early access to videos, or members-only live streams.

Diversifying these income streams not only helps maximize earnings but also reduces reliance on any single source, providing creators with more financial stability and growth potential on the platform.

Is it Possible for Anyone to Become a Famous YouTuber?

Yes, it’s possible for anyone to become a famous YouTuber, but it requires dedication, creativity, and a commitment to continuous growth. Success on YouTube doesn’t come overnight; it involves producing engaging, high-quality content that resonates with a target audience.

Building a connection with viewers is crucial, as loyal subscribers are more likely to support, share, and recommend the channel. Aspiring YouTubers must also be willing to adapt to changes in trends, algorithms, and viewer preferences to keep their content relevant.

With persistence, strategic planning, and a genuine connection to their audience, creators have a real opportunity to build a following and achieve fame on YouTube, regardless of their starting point.