Over 400 hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute. YouTube is massive—far bigger than you might imagine. This scale drives incredible success stories, with top creators earning millions annually from ad revenue alone. As a digital media expert with years tracking platform trends, I've analyzed the most subscribed channels from 2015 and their paths to the top.
Note: Earnings figures reflect direct YouTube ad revenue from 2015, before any platform changes. Creators often supplement with sponsorships, endorsements, and more.
Channel Summary: PewDiePie built his empire on gaming Let's Plays and commentary, becoming the most-subscribed channel in 2013—with twice as many subscribers as the runner-up. It has since evolved into a variety show highlighting his personality, while still featuring games.
2015 Revenue: $12 million (41 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: His energetic, humorous style resonates with YouTube's core teen audience, especially during scary games. Fan engagement—shoutouts to 'bros,' the 'Bro Army,' and signature gestures—fosters deep loyalty.
Channel Summary: Starting with Flash animations in 2003 and pivoting to YouTube in 2005, Smosh is a comedy duo producing skits, parodies, and more. It held the top spot until 2013 and now spans 10 channels under the brand.
2015 Revenue: $8.5 million (21 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: Consistent, high-quality funny content on a regular schedule keeps viewers hooked. Past clickbait thumbnails drew criticism, but their core humor endures.
Channel Summary: Real-life brothers Benny and Rafi Fine pioneered React videos, filming genuine reactions—especially from kids—to viral clips. They've expanded into Spoilers and mockumentaries like MyMusic.
2015 Revenue: $8.5 million (14 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: They mastered reaction videos early, delivering entertainment and insights. A 2016 'React' trademark attempt sparked backlash, costing subscribers, but their format remains influential.
Channel Summary: This violinist blends classical with pop, rock, and EDM, adding dance. Collaborations include Lzzy Hale, Tyler Ward, Pentatonix, and Taylor Swift.
2015 Revenue: $6 million (7 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: Her America's Got Talent exposure led to viral YouTube videos. Unique sound, high energy, and approachable vibe win fans, despite critics.
Channel Summary: Former engineers turned 'Internetainers,' they mix comedic songs, sketches, and their Mythical Morning talk show covering quirky topics.
2015 Revenue: $4.5 million (4 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: Irresistible charisma and humor keep viewers glued. Strong on-screen chemistry drives their dedicated following.
Channel Summary: Known fully as KSIOlajidebt, he focuses on FIFA commentary, with rap and acting ventures since 2009. Note: Features mature content/language.
2015 Revenue: $4.5 million (11 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: High-energy personality—screaming, trash-talking—delivers thrilling gameplay.
Channel Summary: A pioneer in beauty tutorials, her name is synonymous with accessible makeup guides, even for non-enthusiasts.
2015 Revenue: $3 million (8 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: Inspired by Bob Ross's calm style, a 2009 viral video launched her. High-quality, consistent content and fan engagement built lasting loyalty.
Channel Summary: As 'IISuperwomanII,' this comedian and motivator aims to uplift viewers, leaving them happier.
2015 Revenue: $2.5 million (7 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: Her 'Unicorn Island' positivity and fan bonds (calling them 'Unicorns') resonate with young audiences. See her YouTube Red doc for more.
Channel Summary: He elevates pranks with monthly hidden-camera videos racking up millions of views—some harmless, others edgy.
2015 Revenue: $2.5 million (8 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: Pranks are timeless humor, echoing shows like Just for Laughs. Viewers crave the surprises.
Channel Summary: Her nerdy baking—< em>Angry Birds cupcakes, Captain America cakes, emoji cookies—makes learning fun.
2015 Revenue: $2.5 million (5 million subscribers).
Popularity Factors: Food porn with personality: unique, tempting treats you won't find elsewhere.
YouTube reaches more 18-49-year-olds than any cable network. Among U.S. teens, YouTube stars outshine traditional celebs. Don't underestimate it—original content via YouTube Premium is just beginning, potentially rivaling Netflix for youth.
Follow any of these? Who's missing from the top 10? Share your favorite channel in the comments!
