Discover the best YouTube channels for entertainment and learning in 2025. Explore our expert-curated list of top creators who combine fun, facts, and inspiration.
YouTube has evolved into a global powerhouse for both entertainment and education, offering viewers a vast universe of content at their fingertips. Whether you’re looking to unwind with engaging videos or expand your horizons with insightful knowledge, the right channels can transform your viewing experience. Here’s an expertly curated list of the top 10 YouTube channels you must visit in 2025, each blending entertainment and learning in unique and compelling ways.
1. Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell
Focus: Science, Philosophy, Animated Explanations
Why Watch: Kurzgesagt’s visually stunning animations break down complex scientific and philosophical topics into digestible, entertaining videos. With over 22 million subscribers, the channel is renowned for its accuracy and captivating storytelling.
2. Mark Rober
Focus: Science, Engineering, Creative Builds
Why Watch: Former NASA engineer Mark Rober makes science fun and accessible through inventive experiments and jaw-dropping builds. His videos, often featuring viral gadgets or world-record attempts, are both educational and highly entertaining.
3. Veritasium
Focus: Physics, Science Mysteries, Thought Experiments
Why Watch: Derek Muller’s Veritasium explores the wonders and oddities of science with clear explanations and real-world demonstrations. The channel’s engaging style and deep dives make learning physics enjoyable for all ages.
4. MrBeast
Focus: Challenges, Philanthropy, Entertainment
Why Watch: MrBeast is synonymous with viral challenges and large-scale philanthropy. His high-energy videos, often involving massive giveaways and social experiments, have set new standards for entertainment on YouTube.
5. TED
Focus: Ideas, Innovation, Thought Leadership
Why Watch: TED’s official channel brings together the world’s leading thinkers and doers. From technology to psychology, TED Talks offer concise, inspiring presentations that spark curiosity and foster personal growth.
6. SmarterEveryDay
Focus: Science, Curiosity, Exploration
Why Watch: Destin Sandlin’s SmarterEveryDay takes viewers on a journey to understand the world through slow-motion cameras, expert interviews, and hands-on experiments. The channel’s curiosity-driven approach makes science relatable and fun.
7. CrashCourse
Focus: Academic Subjects, History, Science, Literature
Why Watch: Created by John and Hank Green, CrashCourse delivers comprehensive lessons on a wide range of subjects. Its fast-paced, animated videos are perfect for students and lifelong learners alike.
8. Vsauce
Focus: Curiosity, Mind-Bending Questions, Science
Why Watch: Michael Stevens’ Vsauce tackles the most intriguing questions about science, philosophy, and human behavior. The channel’s unique blend of humor and depth keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.
9. The Try Guys
Focus: Comedy, Lifestyle, Challenges
Why Watch: The Try Guys entertain millions with their fearless approach to trying new things, from culinary adventures to extreme stunts. Their genuine chemistry and comedic timing make every video a delight.
10. National Geographic
Focus: Nature, Exploration, Documentaries
Why Watch: National Geographic’s YouTube channel offers breathtaking footage of wildlife, cultures, and natural phenomena. Its documentaries and short features are both visually stunning and deeply informative.
Why These Channels Stand Out
These channels were selected for their consistent quality, educational value, and ability to engage diverse audiences. They represent the cutting edge of YouTube content in 2025, blending entertainment with knowledge to create videos that are as enlightening as they are enjoyable.
Whether you’re seeking to satisfy your curiosity, learn a new skill, or simply be entertained, these creators offer something for everyone. Their influence extends beyond YouTube, shaping conversations and inspiring millions worldwide.
Estimate Annual Earnings of the listed YouTube Channels:
Here is a rough estimate of the annual earnings for each of the listed YouTube channels, based on available public data, industry averages, and recent analytics. These figures include revenue from YouTube ads, sponsorships, merchandise, and other income streams where possible. Please note that actual earnings may vary based on video frequency, audience demographics, CPM rates, and diversified revenue sources.
Channel Name | Estimated Annual Earnings (USD) | Notes & Sources |
---|---|---|
Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell | $7M – $8.9M | Includes ads, sponsorships, and significant merchandise sales. |
Mark Rober | $4M – $6M | High CPM, frequent sponsorships, and viral content (industry estimates). |
Veritasium | $2M – $3.5M | Strong science niche, high engagement, sponsorships (industry estimates). |
MrBeast | $80M – $85M | Leading YouTuber, massive ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise. |
TED | $2M – $3M | Nonprofit, ad revenue, and partnerships (industry estimates). |
SmarterEveryDay | $1.5M – $2.5M | Science content, Patreon, and sponsorships (industry estimates). |
CrashCourse | $1.5M – $2.5M | Funded by grants, Patreon, ads, and sponsorships (industry estimates). |
Vsauce | $2M – $4M | Long-form content, high CPM, sponsorships (industry estimates). |
The Try Guys | $6M – $8M | Ad revenue, branded content, and merchandise (industry estimates). |
National Geographic | $5M – $7M | Corporate channel, ad revenue, and licensing (industry estimates). |
Sources:
Kurzgesagt’s own disclosures and analytics reports indicate monthly earnings from YouTube ads alone range from $28.9K–$52K, with total annual income (including merchandise and sponsorships) estimated at $7M.
Other channels’ figures are based on industry averages, subscriber counts, and known monetization strategies.
These estimates reflect the channels’ popularity, content type, and diversified revenue streams as of 2025.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of YouTube
- Subscribe and Turn on Notifications: Stay updated with the latest content from your favorite creators.
- Engage with the Community: Comment, like, and share videos to join discussions and support creators.
- Curate Your Feed: Use playlists and subscriptions to organize content that matches your interests.
- Explore Beyond the List: YouTube’s algorithm recommends related channels—don’t hesitate to discover new voices.