The most popular YouTubers, such as MrBeast, Lilly Singh, or Markiplier, didn’t just get lucky—they cracked the code on what makes content go viral. From mastering the algorithm to building loyal fan bases, creators like the 11 on this list have fine-tuned their approach to maximize visibility.
1. MrBeast
If there’s one YouTuber who can teach you how to crack the YouTube algorithm, it’s MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson). As of 2025, he has over 365 million subscribers—the most on the platform. His formula is simple: big, bold, and binge-worthy content that aims to pack each second of each video with entertainment. Whether it’s giving away millions of dollars, surviving 24 hours in ice, or recreating “Squid Game” in real life, his videos demand attention.
Takeway: Think big. Viral content is about scale and spectacle. While you might not be able to mimic MrBeast’s highly clickable titles, such as “I Spent 100 Hours Inside the Pyramids!,” you can leverage grand ideas that aim toward spectacle, even on a budget.
2. PewDiePie
PewDiePie (Felix Kjellberg) wasn’t just YouTube’s most-subscribed creator for years—he helped define a generation of internet culture. With humorous inside jokes like “Bro Army” and “9-year-olds,” meme-driven content, and gamer reaction videos called Let’s Play, he’s built a loyal, engaged fan base that sticks with him even as trends change. His success shows two components for those wanting to learn how to become a YouTube influencer: persistence and consistency.
Takeaway: Build a community. Talk to your audience (not at them) to make viewers feel part of an exclusive club and part of something bigger. Don’t be afraid to evolve with your community, since stagnation kills engagement.
3. Emma Chamberlain
Chamberlain changed the game with her unfiltered, raw vlogging, which embraces awkward cuts, jump edits, and casual storytelling—and her audience loves it. Her relatable, offbeat style, as seen in her “silly girl summer” video, sets her apart from the more curated influencers, resonating with viewers who crave authenticity and imperfection in a space that often feels too rehearsed. From coffee runs to life rants, she makes the mundane entertaining.
Takeaway: Be yourself. Chamberlain’s popularity proves that perfection is overrated. Her videos feel like hanging out with a friend—not watching a performance—showing that people connect with realness and personality more than production value.
4. MKBHD
MKBHD (Marques Brownlee) didn’t start as a household name, but over time, he’s built one of the most trusted brands in the tech space. What sets him apart? A perfect blend of expert-level knowledge, insightful analysis, and consistently high-quality production. His content includes reviews for everything from wireless headphones to the latest phone models, impressions of new and fascinating technological advancements, interviews, Q&As, and deep-dives into retro technology. Through it all, he breaks down complex tech topics with clarity and precision.
Takeaway: Know your niche inside out. If you want to stand out, become the go-to expert in your field—whether that’s technology like MKBHD, true crime, your favorite TV show, or whatever it is that intrigues and excites you.
5. NikkieTutorials
After going viral for her video “The Power of Makeup,” NikkieTutorials (Nikkie de Jager) has managed to create a massive beauty empire and collaborate with the likes of Snoop Dogg and Lady Gaga. But what truly sets her apart is her ability to strengthen her connection with fans through vulnerable transparency, like in her post “I’m Coming Out,” an emotional video in which she comes out as transgender.
Takeaway: Share your story to build deeper connections. If you’re comfortable with it, try opening up to your followers. Vulnerability makes your content human, which can create powerful connections.
6. Markiplier
Gaming creator Markiplier (Mark Fischbach) caught viewer attention with high-energy, engaging Let’s Play videos playing indie horror games. But his reach goes beyond gameplay—it’s his over-the-top reactions and absurdist humor that make him unforgettable. Whether participating in charity livestreams, starting the clothing brand Cloak, or writing and directing the comedy film “A Heist With Markiplier,” he shows that diversification plus personality equals YouTuber success.
Takeaway: Make content that’s fun to watch. Energy keeps people hooked, so bring your personality to your projects and engage with viewers like they’re your friends.
7. Dhar Mann
Mann has mastered viral content with his short, dramatic narratives that share life lessons. From “New Cool Kid Steals Shy Kid’s Girl” to “Mom Sends Bad Kid to Military School, What Happens Is Shocking,” these emotionally charged videos resonate deeply due to their clear moralistic insights.
Takeaway: Tell stories people want to share. Emotional content gets people talking, and universal themes like kindness and perseverance resonate with wide audiences.
8. Ryan’s World
Even though Ryan Kaji is just a child, his channel, Ryan’s World, has pulled in billions of views and made him one of the highest-earning YouTubers ever. He posts hyper-niche content—toy reviews and unboxing videos—using a clear, repetitive formula kids love. Today, his brand extends far beyond YouTube, including an app, a feature film, multiple TV shows and video games, and a line of toys.
Takeaway: Give your viewers what they want. Don’t try to appeal to everyone; instead, find a specific, profitable audience, then be consistent about posting content that appeals to them. Much of Kaji’s success is owed to the fact that he publishes a new video almost every single day.
9. Lilly Singh
Singh didn’t just build a YouTube career—she used it as a launch pad to break into mainstream media. Since coming to fame, she’s recorded several songs, released a documentary, published a best-selling memoir, and hosted the late-night talk show “A Little Late With Lilly Singh.” Her mix of relatable skits about family, school, and relationships with a sharp sense of humor helped her break barriers as a South Asian female creator.
Takeaway: Use YouTube as a launch pad. Your channel can open doors to bigger opportunities in other avenues of entertainment. Be on the lookout for influencer and content creator job listings as a start to a potential career in acting, publishing, business, and more.
10. T-Series
T-Series, the second-most subscribed channel on YouTube, isn’t a solo creator—it’s a massive Indian music label with global reach. The account dominates due to a killer mix of high-volume content (to the tune of hundreds of new videos each month) and search engine optimization for high-search-volume music terms.
Takeaway: Optimize and scale up. Upload frequently and optimize for search (using keywords, titles, and descriptions) to boost visibility and tap into large audiences.
11. Smosh
One of YouTube’s first comic creator teams, Smosh stayed relevant by growing its two-person pioneer founders into a larger creative group and full-fledged brand. Although the channel has expanded into gaming, podcasts, and original series, it retains its classic comedy format, meaning continued appeal for its OG audience.
Takeaway: Humor and longevity go hand in hand. If you’re making your viewers laugh, stick with it (while still evolving with the times), and lean into nostalgia to keep longtime fans engaged.