Over the years, YouTube remains one of the most influential platforms. With billions of users worldwide, YouTube offers a unique opportunity for content creators to reach a massive audience. Among these creators, some stand out not just for their subscriber count but for their ability to influence YouTube trends, opinions, and consumer behavior. As we head into 2024, identifying the top YouTube influencers can provide valuable insights into the future of online content.
This article highlights 28 YouTube influencers who are expected to make a significant impact this year.
Who Are Considered As YouTube Influencers?
YouTube influencers are individuals or channels that have built a substantial following on YouTube. They produce content that resonates with their audience, leading to high engagement rates. These influencers can be from various niches, including beauty, gaming, tech, lifestyle, education, and more. What sets them apart is their ability to shape opinions and trends, often turning casual viewers into dedicated fans.
The following elements are considered when determining an influencer’s status:
Subscriber Count
A large number of subscribers indicates a broad reach.
Engagement Rate
High levels of likes, comments, and shares show active audience participation.
Content Quality
Consistently high-quality content keeps viewers coming back.
Authenticity
Influencers who remain genuine and relatable tend to build stronger connections with their audience.
Collaborations
Collaborations with other YouTubers or brands can help them expand their audience and establish their authority.
28 Top YouTube Influencers Who Have Marked Their Strong Presence
1. MrBeast
Niche: Entertainment, Challenges, Philanthropy
Subscribers: 300+ million
This megastar isn’t just about the outlandish stunts and expensive challenges (though he’s definitely known for those!). MrBeast, with over 300 million subscribers, is a master of pushing boundaries and creating content that goes viral. He’s also incredibly philanthropic, often incorporating massive giveaways into his videos, like giving away entire houses or cars to random participants.
Whether it’s watching someone spend 50 hours buried alive or surprising a streamer with a million-dollar donation, MrBeast knows how to capture attention and leave viewers speechless.
2. PewDiePie
Niche: Gaming, Commentary, Comedy
Subscribers: 110+ million
One of the most subscribed-to YouTubers globally, PewDiePie has been a gaming mainstay for over a decade. He’s seen it all, from the early days of Let’s Plays to the rise of virtual reality experiences. His content caters to a broad audience, offering a mix of walkthroughs and reviews for popular titles, along with comedic skits and challenges that showcase his quirky personality.
PewDiePie has faced some controversies over the years, but his loyal fanbase of over 110 million subscribers continues to follow him on his gaming journey.
3. Emma Chamberlain
Niche: Lifestyle, Fashion, Vlogs
Subscribers: 12+ million
This relatable vlogger documents her daily life, travels, and experiences in a down-to-earth manner, resonating with millions of young viewers. Her content feels authentic and unfiltered, offering a glimpse into the life of a young adult navigating friendships, relationships, and personal growth.
Emma Chamberlain isn’t afraid to be vulnerable, sharing her struggles and anxieties alongside the highlights of her life. This genuine approach has garnered her a loyal fanbase of over 12 million subscribers who feel like they’re along for the ride.
4. Marques Brownlee
Niche: Technology, Reviews
Subscribers: 19+ million
Tech enthusiasts everywhere flock to Marques Brownlee‘s channel for his insightful gadget reviews, in-depth comparisons, and engaging discussions on the latest tech trends. He delivers high-quality productions with a clear and concise presentation style, making even complex tech topics easy to understand.
Marques Brownlee isn’t afraid to express his honest opinions, offering viewers valuable insights before they make a purchasing decision. Whether you’re looking for a review of the newest smartphone or a breakdown of the latest tech specs, Marques Brownlee’s channel, with over 19 million subscribers, has you covered.
5. Lilly Singh
Niche: Comedy, Motivation
Subscribers: 14+ million
Lilly Singh, a comedian from Canada who was previously recognized on YouTube as IISuperwomanII, is a formidable figure. Her energetic and hilarious sketch comedy videos, featuring Singh portraying multiple characters, catapulted her to fame.
She has since branched out into acting, writing, and hosting, but her YouTube channel remains a vibrant space for comedic content, challenges, collaborations, and vlogs. With over 14.4 million subscribers, Lilly Singh is a comedic powerhouse who continues to entertain and inspire.
6. James Charles
Niche: Beauty, Makeup Tutorials
Subscribers: 23+ million
A controversial yet undeniably talented makeup artist, James Charles is known for his high-glam aesthetic and detailed tutorials. He pushes the limits of makeup artistry with his dramatic color and technique experiments.
While he’s faced some challenges in recent years, his channel, with over 23 million subscribers, remains a go-to resource for makeup enthusiasts seeking inspiration and learning new skills.
7. NikkieTutorials
Niche: Beauty, Makeup Tutorials
Subscribers: 14+ million
Dutch makeup artist NikkieTutorials is a global phenomenon, renowned for her flawless technique, creative looks, and positive energy. She tackles everything from easy, everyday makeup routines to elaborate transformations, always providing clear and concise instructions that viewers can follow at home.
With over 14 million subscribers, NikkieTutorials is more than just a makeup artist; she’s an inspiration for anyone who wants to express themselves through beauty.
8. David Dobrik
Niche: Vlogs, Comedy
Subscribers: 17+ million
With over 17.5 million subscribers, David Dobrik is a comedic vlogger known for his elaborate pranks, challenges, and social experiments. His high-energy personality and willingness to go to outrageous lengths for entertainment have earned him a massive following. Dobrik’s content often features his close-knit friend group, known as the “Vlog Squad,” who participate in his antics and add to the comedic chaos.
While some have criticized his content for pushing boundaries and potentially endangering himself and others, there’s no denying Dobrik’s ability to captivate viewers and leave them laughing. However, it’s important to note that Dobrik has also faced controversy surrounding allegations of misconduct.
9. Joey Graceffa
Niche: Lifestyle, Gaming, Vlogs
Subscribers: 9+ million
From vlogging his daily life to creating elaborate challenges and social experiments, Joey Graceffa has carved out a successful space on YouTube. His content is relatable and entertaining, offering viewers a glimpse into his life as a young adult navigating friendships, relationships, and personal growth.
Graceffa isn’t afraid to be vulnerable, sharing his struggles and anxieties alongside the highlights of his life. This genuine approach has garnered him a loyal fanbase of over 9.4 million subscribers. Graceffa has also branched out into music, acting, and writing, but his YouTube channel remains a cornerstone of his online presence.
10. Liza Koshy
Niche: Comedy, Vlogs
Subscribers: 16+ million
Liza Koshy has gained popularity on YouTube due to her unique style of blending humor and realistic lifestyle content. Her energetic and humorous approach to vlogging, challenges, and skits has garnered her over 16 million subscribers.
Koshy’s signature is her infectious enthusiasm and willingness to poke fun at herself. From hilarious Dollar Store shopping sprees to over-the-top challenges, her content keeps viewers entertained. Koshy has also ventured into acting and hosting, but her YouTube channel remains a vibrant hub for her comedic talents.
11. Casey Neistat
Niche: Vlogs, Filmmaking
Subscribers: 12+ million
This American filmmaker and vlogger has revolutionized the way people create and consume content on YouTube. Neistat’s signature style is characterized by fast-paced editing, stunning visuals, and a focus on daily life experiences. He takes viewers on adventures around the world, documents his creative process, and offers glimpses into his life as a father and entrepreneur.
Neistat’s innovative approach and use of new technologies have inspired countless aspiring YouTubers. With over 12 million subscribers, his channel CaseyNeistat remains a must-watch for anyone interested in filmmaking, vlogging, and creative storytelling.
12. Zoe Sugg
Niche: Lifestyle, Beauty, Vlogs
Subscribers: 4+ million
A true OG of YouTube, Zoe Sugg, also known by her online persona Zoella, has been a major force in the British vlogging scene since 2009. With over 4 million subscribers, her channel offers a mix of lifestyle content, beauty tutorials, and personal vlogs. Sugg’s relatable personality and down-to-earth approach have resonated with viewers for over a decade.
She openly discusses her experiences with anxiety and mental health, fostering a sense of community and support among her followers. In addition to YouTube, Sugg is a successful author and entrepreneur, but her channel remains a cornerstone of her online presence.
13. Shane Dawson
Niche: Documentaries, Comedy
Subscribers: 18+ million
On YouTube, Shane Dawson is a complicated and controversial personality. Once a comedic powerhouse known for his dark humor, skits, and conspiracy theory videos, Dawson has faced significant criticism in recent years.
While his earlier work, like his impersonation videos and elaborate parodies, garnered him millions of subscribers (over 18 million currently), controversies surrounding offensive jokes and past actions have tarnished his reputation.
14. Jeffree Star
Niche: Beauty, Makeup Tutorials, Reviews
Subscribers: 15+ million
A household name in the beauty industry and makeup is Jeffree Star. He leverages his YouTube channel with over 15.8 million subscribers to promote his highly successful cosmetics brand, Jeffree Star Cosmetics.
He offers product reviews, cosmetics tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at the beauty industry. Star’s signature style is bold and dramatic, and his makeup skills are undeniable.
15. KSI
Niche: Gaming, Music, Vlogs
Subscribers: 24+ million
Olajide Olayinka Williams, better known onscreen as KSI, is a British influencer who has found success on a variety of YouTube channels. With more than 24 million followers, this channel serves as KSI’s major platform for his musical career.
Expect music videos, behind-the-scenes content, and insights into his creative process. His music blends genres like hip-hop, rap, and pop, often featuring collaborations.
16. Rosanna Pansino
Niche: Cooking, Baking
Subscribers: 14+ million
Rosanna Pansino is the queen of nerdy cuisine and baking, as defined by her channel Nerdy Nummies. She boasts over 14.5 million subscribers who tune in for her creative and elaborate creations inspired by popular culture, video games, movies, anime, and more.
Pansino doesn’t just bake intricate cakes and cookies resembling characters or objects; she also injects humor and personality into her videos, making the baking process fun and engaging for viewers. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or simply enjoy seeing pop culture reimagined through desserts, Nerdy Nummies is a delightful channel to explore.
17. Jacksepticeye
Niche: Gaming, Vlogs
Subscribers: 30+ million
Jacksepticeye, a popular YouTuber with over 30 million subscribers, is a force in the gaming world. His channel features Let’s Plays (particularly for Sony exclusives), a variety of other games, and gaming-related content like challenges and reviews.
Jacksepticeye’s infectious enthusiasm, witty humor (including his signature coffee meme), and positive energy make him a favorite. He’s also an advocate for mental health, fostering a strong community on his channel.
18. Smosh
Niche: Comedy, Sketches
Subscribers: 26+ million
Smosh, a founding YouTube channel with over 26 million subscribers, is an American sketch comedy and entertainment powerhouse. Originally a website for Flash animations by Anthony Padilla and Ian Hecox, Smosh has evolved into a comedy collective featuring pranks, challenges, and pop culture parodies.
Their main channel offers weekly videos, while their channel Smosh Pit features more experimental and trendy content. Though Anthony Padilla departed in 2017, Smosh continues to deliver laughs for a new generation.
19. Tati Westbrook
Niche: Beauty, Reviews
Subscribers: 8+ million
Tati Westbrook is a makeup artist influencer on YouTube who goes by the handle GlamLifeGuru. She is an expert at providing honest product reviews, tutorials, and opinions.
Once a major force in the beauty community with over 8 million subscribers, her channel experienced a significant downturn in 2019 following a controversial video about a fellow YouTuber. Despite attempts to revive her content in 2021, Tati’s channel hasn’t regained its former prominence.
20. Rhett and Link
Niche: Comedy, Talk Show
Subscribers: 5+ million
Rhett and Link, the comedic duo behind the hugely successful YouTube channel Good Mythical Morning (GMM), are internet entertainers who have been captivating audiences since 2011. GMM, known for its daily episodes, features a variety of lighthearted segments, from taste tests with bizarre food combinations to hilarious challenges and experiments.
Their infectious energy, witty banter, and willingness to try anything make them a favorite for viewers seeking laughter and entertainment.
21. The Try Guys
Niche: Comedy, Experiments
Subscribers: 8+ million
This comedic quartet started as a Buzzfeed group but has since carved out their own space on YouTube. Known for their hilarious challenges, experiments, and taste tests, The Try Guys tackle everything from trying exotic foods to undergoing weird beauty treatments.
Their genuine camaraderie and willingness to put themselves out there keeps viewers entertained. The Try Guys, with over 8 million subscribers, offer lighthearted content that’s perfect for a good laugh.
22. Jenna Marbles
Niche: Comedy, Vlogs
Subscribers: 19+ million
Though she recently announced a hiatus, Jenna Marbles remains a major force in YouTube entertainment. Her comedic skits, vlogs, and challenges are known for their originality and wit.
Marbles isn’t afraid to be silly and self-deprecating, which is a big part of her appeal. With over 19 million subscribers, her channel is a treasure trove of hilarious content.
23. Logan Paul
Niche: Vlogs, Comedy, Boxing
Subscribers: 23+ million
Logan Paul, a multifaceted influencer with 23.6 million subscribers on YouTube, has carved a path across entertainment and athletics. His main channel features vlogs and challenges, often pushing boundaries and courting some controversy.
He’s also a successful podcast host and professional wrestler for WWE, currently holding the United States Championship. Despite past missteps and criticisms, Logan Paul strives to improve his content and image, showcasing his work ethic and dedication to building a strong online presence.
24. Ninja
Niche: Gaming, Streaming
Subscribers: 23+ million
Ninja, the online alias of Tyler Blevins, is a household name in gaming thanks to his dominance in the early days of Fortnite Battle Royale. With over 23.8 million YouTube subscribers, Ninja rose to fame with his exceptional skills and entertaining commentary during his Fortnite streams.
While he now plays a wider variety of games like Valorant and Warzone, his infectious enthusiasm and engaging personality continue to draw viewers in. Although he switched his main streaming platform from Twitch to Mixer in 2019, Ninja’s return to Twitch in 2020 solidified his status as a top gaming influencer.
25. Yuya
Niche: Beauty, Lifestyle
Subscribers: 24+ million
Yuya, the online persona of Mariand Castrejon, is a Mexican beauty and lifestyle guru who has taken YouTube by storm. Boasting over 24 million subscribers on her main channel, Yuya offers a treasure trove of beauty tutorials, from practical everyday tips to creative makeup looks.
Her content expands beyond beauty, though, with vlogs offering glimpses into her life and relatable advice. A true YouTube pioneer, Yuya’s success story proves the power of sharing your passions and personality online.
26. Whindersson Nunes
Niche: Comedy, Vlogs
Subscribers: 44+ million
Whindersson Nunes, a Brazilian entertainer with over 44 million YouTube subscribers, is a multi-talented force. He began his career on YouTube with comedic skits and observations, finding massive success and becoming the most subscribed channel in Brazil for a time.
Whindersson’s comedic talents extend beyond YouTube, with forays into acting, music (performing as Lil Whind), and even professional boxing. Though he hasn’t uploaded to his main channel in recent months, Whindersson Nunes remains a major Brazilian influencer with a diverse range of skills.
27. Lele Pons
Niche: Comedy, Music
Subscribers: 18+ million
Influencer Lele Pons, an American-Venezuelan, gained popularity on Vine with her humorous challenges and sketches, developing over 18 million YouTube subscribers. She transitioned seamlessly to YouTube, creating funny sketches, vlogs, and musical content.
Lele’s energetic personality and willingness to push boundaries, often through hilarious pranks, have won her a loyal following. She’s also dabbled in acting, music videos, and even co-authored a novel, solidifying her place as a multifaceted entertainer in the influencer world.
28. The Game Theorists
Niche: Gaming, Theory
Subscribers: 19+ million
The Game Theorists, the online persona of Matthew Patrick, was a YouTube powerhouse known for his analytical dives into pop culture. Though he retired from his channels in March 2024, his legacy lives on. Across channels like The Game Theorists, Film Theorists, Food Theorists, and Style Theorists, MatPat, with his distinctive humor, explored hidden lore in video games, analyzed movie plots, experimented with unusual foods, and even delved into the science of fashion.
His engaging theories and informative content, delivered with his signature catchphrase “But that’s just a theory… A GAME THEORY!” made him a favorite among keen audiences.
Conclusion
The world of YouTube is vast and diverse, with influencers shaping trends, inspiring millions, and driving conversations across various niches. As we look forward to 2024, these 28 influencers represent the pinnacle of success on the platform. Their creativity, authenticity, and ability to engage with their audiences will undoubtedly continue to make waves in the arena of YouTube.
Whether you’re a brand looking to collaborate or a viewer seeking fresh content, keeping an eye on these top YouTube influencers will ensure you stay connected to the pulse of online culture.