20 Most Watched Categories of YouTube Videos in 2025

With millions of videos uploaded every day, standing out on YouTube isn’t just about hitting “publish”—it’s about understanding what captures viewers' attention.

As the platform evolves, so do viewer habits, and the most successful creators are the ones who adapt and stay ahead of emerging trends.

Whether you’re looking to grow your personal brand, turn content creation into a career, or simply share your passion with the world, knowing what works on YouTube (and why) can make all the difference.

In this guide, we'll explore 20 of the most popular types of YouTube videos, why they thrive, and how you can use these trends to grow your channel and keep viewers coming back for more.

What Makes a YouTube Video Popular?

Creating a popular YouTube video is not just about the content; it’s also about how it engages viewers and interacts with the platform’s algorithm.

Below, we’ll explore some key factors that contribute to a video’s success on YouTube.

Viewer Engagement

Viewer engagement is one of the most important factors that influence the success of a YouTube video.

Comments, likes, shares, and watch time are all metrics that YouTube's algorithm uses to determine how well a video is performing.

Videos that receive higher engagement are more likely to be recommended to other viewers, increasing their visibility.

Engaging videos encourage audience participation through interactive elements such as polls, call-to-action prompts, and community posts, keeping viewers invested in the content.

Trends and Virality

Certain types of YouTube videos have the potential to go viral, especially when creators tap into current trends.

For example, viral challenges, trending topics, or social media movements often lead to a surge in views for videos that participate.

Creators who stay on top of these trends and incorporate them into their content are more likely to achieve viral success and reach a wider audience.

Additionally, leveraging trending hashtags, collaborating with other popular creators, and reacting to viral moments can significantly boost a video’s discoverability and chances of becoming widely shared.

Content Quality

While trends and engagement are important, content quality remains the backbone of successful YouTube videos.

Viewers are more likely to watch a video in its entirety and return for future content when the production quality is high.

High-resolution visuals, clear audio, professional editing, and compelling storytelling all contribute to viewer retention.

Even simple content can perform well if it is presented in an engaging, well-structured manner that keeps the audience entertained and informed.

Niche Audiences

YouTube's vast diversity of content means there’s an audience for almost every niche. Creators who focus on serving specific audiences can gain a dedicated following.

Popular niche content creators often have loyal viewers who return for every new video.

By consistently providing value to a particular audience—whether through educational content, entertainment, or problem-solving—creators can build a strong community, leading to higher engagement and better recommendations from YouTube’s algorithm.

Consistency and Frequency

Posting videos consistently and at a regular frequency is a crucial part of building a successful YouTube channel.

When creators upload regularly, they stay top of mind with their subscribers, who begin to expect new content on a predictable schedule.

This consistency can lead to greater subscriber growth and higher viewer retention rates.

Moreover, YouTube’s algorithm tends to favor channels that post regularly, as frequent uploads signal to the platform that the channel is active, increasing the likelihood of videos appearing in search results and recommendations.

Top 20 Most Popular Types of YouTube Videos

Below are the 20 most popular types of YouTube videos in 2025, broken down into categories that resonate with a wide range of viewers.

1. Gaming Content

Gaming channels continue to be one of the most dominant content categories on YouTube, attracting millions of viewers daily.

These channels showcase live-streams, walkthroughs, speed runs, Let’s Plays, and in-depth game analyses, offering both entertainment and practical gameplay strategies.

Many gaming content creators incorporate humor, storytelling, or competitive play, making these videos highly engaging for gaming communities on YouTube.

• Popular gaming channels include PewDiePie, known for Let’s Plays and reaction videos, and Markiplier, who blends horror gaming with humor.

2. ASMR

ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) videos provide a calming and immersive experience, utilizing soft whispers, tapping, and soothing sounds to trigger relaxation and sensory pleasure.

This genre has gained significant popularity due to its effectiveness in reducing stress, improving sleep, and enhancing focus.

ASMR creators experiment with various themes, including roleplays, unboxing videos, eating sounds, and personal attention triggers, catering to a wide range of audiences seeking relaxation.

• Popular ASMR YouTube channels include Gibi ASMR, specializing in roleplay ASMR, and ASMRxBABEE, who is known for creating whispering lifestyle and beauty content.

3. Vlogs

Vlogging remains one of the most watched video formats, allowing content creators to share aspects of their daily lives, behind-the-scenes moments, and personal journeys.

Travel vlogs transport viewers to new destinations, providing insight into different cultures and experiences, while personal vlogs create an intimate connection between creators and their audiences.

Vlogging's unscripted nature makes it authentic and engaging, drawing millions of subscribers who enjoy following the lives of their favorite creators.

• Popular vloggers on YouTube include Emma Chamberlain, known for her relatable and candid lifestyle and fashion vlogs, and Casey Neistat, who is famous for his cinematic travel storytelling and inspirational videos. 

4. Product Reviews

Product reviews play a crucial role in influencing purchasing decisions, offering in-depth insights into the latest tech, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products.

These videos often feature unboxing, comparisons, durability tests, and honest opinions, making them an essential resource for consumers looking for reliable recommendations.

The trust and credibility built by reviewers help these videos generate massive engagement, solidifying their place among the most-watched content on YouTube.

• Popular product review channels include Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) for tech reviews and Safiya Nygaard, who tests and reviews fashion and beauty products.

5. Video Podcasts

Video podcasts have surged in popularity as they combine engaging discussions with a visual component, keeping audiences more immersed than traditional audio-only formats.

These videos cover diverse topics, including politics, entertainment, self-improvement, and deep conversations with influential guests.

Many podcasts incorporate audience interaction through live-streams or Q&A sessions, making them a dynamic and interactive form of content creation.

• Popular podcast videos streaming on YouTube include The Ben and Emil Show, a weekly podcast that highlights the funnier side of business, politics, and the financial world, and Rotten Mango, a true crime podcast that dives into some of the most bizarre crimes happening today. 

6. Unboxing Videos

Unboxing videos are designed to capture the excitement of opening new products, from the latest gadgets to high-end fashion items.

The detailed walkthrough of packaging, first impressions, and product demonstrations help viewers make informed decisions before purchasing.

Unboxing videos also tap into consumer curiosity, creating anticipation and excitement around upcoming releases, making them one of the most engaging video formats on YouTube.

• Popular unboxing channels include Unbox Therapy, which focuses on tech gadgets, and Sarah Grace, who is known for unboxing random products and bundles she buys online. 

7. Beauty & Makeup 

Makeup and beauty content remains a powerhouse on YouTube, providing tutorials, product recommendations, skincare routines, and transformation videos.

These videos help viewers master new techniques, discover must-have products, and stay updated on industry trends.

Many beauty creators engage their audience through challenges, collaborations, and honest reviews, making this niche highly interactive and influential.

• Popular beauty channels include NikkieTutorials, known for glamorous makeup transformations, and James Charles, who creates bold beauty looks and collaborations.

8. Interviews

Interview-based videos offer in-depth conversations with celebrities, industry experts, and thought leaders, giving audiences exclusive access to compelling discussions.

These videos cover a range of topics, including personal journeys, trending news, business insights, and creative processes.

Whether through formal sit-down interviews or spontaneous Q&A sessions, this format is popular due to its informative and engaging nature.

• Popular YouTube interview channels include Hot Ones by First We Feast, where celebrities answer questions while eating spicy wings, and The Diary of a CEO, which focuses on in-depth conversations with business leaders and influencers.

9. Challenge Videos 

Challenge videos thrive on high-energy, competitive, and often outrageous concepts that captivate audiences.

These videos feature large-scale stunts, endurance tests, and viral social experiments, keeping viewers engaged with unpredictable and thrilling content.

Creators push the limits of creativity and generosity, frequently offering huge rewards and prizes, making this format one of the most viral and shareable on YouTube.

• Popular challenge creators include MrBeast, who is known for massive giveaways and extreme challenges, and Sidemen, a UK-based group known for their entertaining, collaborative challenges.

10. Comedy

Comedy content on YouTube takes many forms, including scripted sketches, improv skits, reaction videos, and short-form humor tailored for YouTube Shorts.

These videos generate mass appeal due to their entertainment value, with creators leveraging satire, parodies, and meme culture to engage viewers.

The rise of short-form content has made comedy even more accessible, with quick laughs often going viral across social platforms.

• Popular comedy channels include Viva La Dirt League, a sketch comedy group known for their fantasy and gaming spoofs, and Charlotte Dobre, who creates humorous reaction content on the latest stories hitting the internet. 

11. Music Channels

Music remains one of the most watched and streamed categories on YouTube, with channels dedicated to official music videos, lyric videos, covers, mashups, and behind-the-scenes content.

The platform has revolutionized music consumption, allowing both established artists and independent creators to reach global audiences instantly.

Music reaction and analysis videos have also gained traction as fans enjoy deeper insights into their favorite tracks.

• Popular music channels include Vevo, which hosts official music videos, live performances, and interviews from newcoming and big hit artists, and Postmodern Jukebox, which reinvents modern songs in vintage styles.

12. Fitness

Fitness channels provide viewers with guided workout routines, nutrition advice, and motivational content that encourages a healthy lifestyle.

From high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions to yoga tutorials, these videos cater to a broad audience seeking at-home fitness solutions.

The accessibility and convenience of online fitness videos have made them a staple for users looking for expert advice without the need for a gym membership.

• Popular fitness channels include Chloe Ting, famous for viral workout challenges, and Blogilates, which offers pilates and body-positive fitness content.

13. News

YouTube has become a primary source of news, offering real-time updates and diverse perspectives across politics, global events, technology, and entertainment.

These videos are often more digestible than traditional news broadcasts, allowing viewers to stay informed on trending topics with engaging visuals and commentary.

The interactive nature of YouTube also enables discussion and debate, making news content highly engaging and shareable.

• Popular news channels include Philip DeFranco, known for news commentary, and Vice, which covers in-depth global issues in short-formatted documentaries.

14. Cooking Channels

Cooking videos are widely watched by audiences seeking recipes, meal prep ideas, and culinary inspiration.

These videos range from step-by-step tutorials for beginners to advanced techniques demonstrated by professional chefs.

Cooking channels often integrate cultural storytelling, food challenges, and ingredient breakdowns, making them both educational and entertaining.

• Popular cooking channels include Binging with Babish, known for recreating movie and TV dishes, and Tasty, which features quick and engaging recipe videos.

15. DIY Projects

DIY channels empower viewers to create, repurpose, and innovate with hands-on projects, ranging from home decor to fashion to science experiments.

These videos appeal to individuals looking for creative and budget-friendly solutions, fostering strong community engagement through shared ideas.

Many DIY creators use simple materials to make practical and aesthetically pleasing items, making their content widely accessible.

• Popular DIY channels include Evan and Katelyn, known for their creative and humorous DIY builds, and Laura Kampf, who focuses on woodworking, metalworking, and innovative maker projects.

16. Educational Content

Educational content thrives on YouTube, with videos explaining complex topics in science, history, psychology, and technology through engaging visuals and storytelling.

These videos transform learning into an immersive experience, helping audiences retain information more effectively.

The accessibility of free, high-quality educational content has made these channels incredibly popular among students, professionals, and lifelong learners alike.

• Popular educational channels include Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell, which produces science explainer videos, and Veritasium, which covers physics and engineering concepts.

17. Life Hacks

Life hack videos provide viewers with clever shortcuts and productivity tips that simplify everyday tasks.

These videos often focus on efficiency, DIY solutions, and unexpected tricks that can be applied to home organization, travel, and personal finance.

The quick, informative format makes life hack content highly shareable and easy to consume.

• Popular life hack channels include 5-Minute Crafts, which focuses on quick, practical tips for everyday use, and 123 Go! Genius, known for creative and sometimes quirky life hacks.

18. Animation

Animated content on YouTube spans from short films and web series to explainer videos and humorous sketches.

The unique storytelling and artistic creativity in animation make it a visually compelling format that appeals to both children and adults.

Many animated creators leverage digital illustration and motion graphics to bring engaging narratives to life.

• Popular animation channels include TheOdd1sOut, which creates humorous and relatable animated stories, and Haminations, a funny cartoon series based on stories of the animators' life. 

19. Gardening Videos

Gardening videos provide valuable insights into plant care, urban gardening, landscaping, and sustainable growing practices.

These channels appeal to viewers interested in home gardening, self-sufficiency, and eco-friendly lifestyles.

Content ranges from beginner tips to advanced techniques, fostering a knowledgeable and passionate community of plant enthusiasts.

• Popular gardening channels include Epic Gardening, which provides practical gardening tips, and Self Sufficient Me, focusing on sustainable living and homegrown food production.

20. VR/360 Content

Virtual reality and 360-degree videos offer immersive experiences, allowing viewers to explore breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and interactive environments.

These videos utilize cutting-edge technology to enhance storytelling and create unique perspectives, making them stand out in the YouTube ecosystem.

VR content is particularly popular in travel, gaming, and educational genres, providing an unparalleled viewing experience.

• Popular VR/360 content channels include NitroVR360, which creates quick, entertaining VR animated experiences, and National Geographic's 360, a curated playlist that offers stunning 360-degree nature experiences around the world. 

4 Tips to Succeed with YouTube Content

Creating successful content on YouTube takes more than just uploading videos. Here are some key strategies for success.

1. Focus on High-Quality Content

The quality of your content matters. Investing in good equipment, clear audio, and compelling visuals can make your videos stand out in a crowded space.

High-quality production not only makes your content more appealing but also increases viewer retention, as audiences are more likely to watch and share professional-looking videos.

Even if you're on a budget, focusing on good lighting, clear storytelling, and effective editing can significantly improve the perceived quality of your videos.

2. Engage with Your Audience Regularly

Responding to comments and interacting with your community is essential for building a loyal audience. Engagement helps foster a sense of connection with your viewers.

Actively responding to comments, hosting Q&A sessions, and utilizing YouTube's Community tab to post updates, polls, and behind-the-scenes content can strengthen your relationship with subscribers.

Encouraging viewers to like, share, and comment on videos also signals to YouTube’s algorithm that your content is engaging, helping with visibility.

3. Follow Trends and Be Consistent

Stay on top of the latest trends and maintain a regular posting schedule. This keeps your channel active and increases the likelihood of your content being discovered.

Participating in trending challenges, reacting to viral topics, or incorporating popular themes in your niche can help expand your reach.

Additionally, maintaining a consistent upload schedule—whether it’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly—creates anticipation among your audience, leading to higher viewer retention and subscriber growth.

4. Optimize Your Videos for SEO

Make sure that your videos are optimized for search engines by using relevant titles, descriptions, and tags.

This can help improve your visibility and attract more viewers to your content. Incorporating keywords naturally in your video title, description, and transcript can enhance discoverability.

Creating compelling thumbnails, adding closed captions, and organizing content into playlists can further improve search rankings and encourage viewers to explore more of your content.

Join Forces with Fourthwall for YouTube Success!

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• Social Media Integration – With YouTube Merch Shelf, Fourthwall makes it easy to sell premium-quality products and offers an amazing experience directly on your YouTube videos.
• Tipping & Donations – Enable supporters to contribute to your channel with donations of any amount for ongoing support.
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Whether you're launching your first merch line, setting up exclusive memberships, or looking for better ways to engage with your audience, Fourthwall gives you the flexibility to grow your brand your way.

Start growing your YouTube channel today with Fourthwall and take full control of your creative success!

Frequently Asked Questions

What video trends are popular on YouTube?

In 2025, some of the top video trends on YouTube include immersive VR content, ASMR videos, viral challenges, and gaming livestreams.

Short-form content, such as YouTube Shorts, continues to gain popularity due to its highly shareable and fast-paced nature.

Additionally, AI-generated content, interactive storytelling, and behind-the-scenes vlogs are becoming increasingly prominent as audiences seek more personalized and engaging experiences.

What genres are popular on YouTube?

YouTube offers a vast array of genres, including music videos, tutorials, vlogs, educational content, gaming, and product reviews.

Content related to fitness, DIY projects, and life hacks also performs well, attracting audiences looking for informative and entertaining videos.

Emerging niches such as true crime storytelling, documentary-style content, and deep-dive explainer videos have also gained traction as viewers seek more in-depth and thought-provoking content.

What types of videos go viral on YouTube?

Videos that go viral on YouTube often share common characteristics such as high engagement, strong emotional appeal, and a unique or unexpected element.

Content that follows trending topics, viral challenges, and internet memes has a higher likelihood of rapid sharing and widespread exposure.

Additionally, videos that spark curiosity, elicit strong reactions, or offer high entertainment value—such as extreme stunts, heartwarming stories, and humorous skits—tend to perform exceptionally well in terms of virality.