YouTube continues to see massive growth with over 2.49 billion monthly users globally as of early 2024. India alone accounts for over 460 million of these users, highlighting the country's prominence on the video sharing platform.
Unlike many other streaming services, YouTube offers a free ad-supported version that has contributed greatly to its success. It also provides a revenue stream for thousands of content creators through the platform's partner program.
Looking at the top 10 most subscribed channels provides interesting insights into the diversity of content attracting massive audiences. The lists is dominated by music labels, television networks and family/children focused channels.
The number one spot is retained by Indian record label T-Series which has amassed over 265 million subscribers through its catalog of movie songs and albums. Challenging closely is MrBeast at number two with 260 million subscribers thanks to his ambitious challenge videos and huge cash giveaways.
Other notable entires include Cocomelon at third with 175 million for nursery rhymes, Sony Entertainment TV India at fourth with 172 million for television serials and Kids Diana Show rounding off the top five with 122 million subscribers.
WWE remains the only non-music or family focused channel in the top 10, using its sports entertainment programming to engage over 101 million YouTube fans.
