YouTube has become a popular platform for creators to showcase their talent and engage with millions of viewers worldwide. Many YouTubers have turned their passion into a lucrative career, earning significant amounts of money through their channels. In this article, we will explore the top YouTubers who made the most money in 2020 from various aspects.
1. Ad Revenue:
One of the primary sources of income for YouTubers is through ad revenue. The more views and engagement a channel generates, the higher the ad revenue. YouTubers such as PewDiePie and MrBeast have consistently topped the charts in terms of ad revenue.
PewDiePie, with his gaming commentary and entertainment videos, amassed over 50 billion views in 2020, earning him a substantial income through ads.
2. Sponsored Content:
Another significant source of income for YouTubers is sponsored content. Brands collaborate with popular YouTubers to promote their products or services. Many creators, like Jeffree Star and James Charles, earn millions through sponsored videos and brand partnerships.
Jeffree Star, a beauty influencer, is known for his sponsored makeup tutorials and reviews. He has partnered with several renowned beauty brands, earning a significant portion of his income from such collaborations.
3. Merchandise Sales:
Creating and selling merchandise with their brand logos or catchphrases is a popular revenue stream for YouTubers. Personalities like Shane Dawson and Logan Paul have successfully launched their merchandise lines, adding to their overall earnings.
Shane Dawson, with his loyal fanbase, released a range of merchandise including clothing, accessories, and books. His merchandise sales contributed significantly to his income in 2020.
4. Patreon and Fan Donations:
YouTubers often have dedicated fan communities who support their work through platforms like Patreon or direct donations. Creators like Markiplier and Philip DeFranco have built strong relationships with their fans, who willingly contribute to their channels’ growth.
Markiplier, a popular gaming YouTuber, uses Patreon to engage with his fans and offer exclusive content. The support he receives from his fans through this platform is an essential part of his income.
5. Book Deals and Endorsements:
Several YouTubers have leveraged their online popularity to secure book deals and endorsements, expanding their revenue streams beyond YouTube. Personalities like Michelle Phan and Rhett & Link have successfully ventured into writing and brand endorsements.
Michelle Phan, a beauty vlogger, released a book in 2020 where she shared her experiences and beauty tips. Her book deal contributed to her overall earnings.
6. Live Performances:
Some YouTubers extend their presence beyond the digital realm by organizing live performances or shows. Artists like David Dobrik and Dude Perfect have successfully generated substantial income through live performances and tickets sales.
Dude Perfect, a sports entertainment channel, organized live shows where they performed trick shots and engaged with their audience. Their live performances contributed significantly to their earnings in 2020.
7. Licensing and Royalties:
YouTubers with unique content often explore licensing and royalty agreements for their videos or music. Creators like Lindsey Stirling and Marshmello have successfully collaborated with record labels and media companies, earning royalties for their work.
Lindsey Stirling, known for her violin performances, collaborated with record labels to create original music videos. The royalties from these collaborations contributed significantly to her income.
8. Affiliate Marketing:
Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services through personalized links, earning a commission for every sale made through those links. YouTubers like Emma Chamberlain and Ryan Kaji effectively use affiliate links to generate additional income.
Ryan Kaji, a young YouTuber known for toy unboxing videos, includes affiliate links to the toys he reviews. The sales generated from these links contribute to his overall earnings.
9. Brand Partnerships:
YouTubers often collaborate with brands to create sponsored content or become brand ambassadors. Personalities like Jenna Marbles and Ninja effectively partner with renowned brands, increasing their overall income.
Ninja, a popular gaming YouTuber, has collaborated with various brands like Samsung and Red Bull. These partnerships have contributed significantly to his earnings in 2020.
10. Licensing Merchandise:
Beyond creating their own merchandise, YouTubers often license their brand to third-party companies, expanding their reach and revenue. Figures like Ryan Higa and VanossGaming have successfully licensed their brand for various products.
Ryan Higa, a prominent YouTuber, has licensed his brand to create board games and other merchandise. The sales from these licensed products contribute to his overall earnings.
11. Crowdfunding:
Some YouTubers turn to crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe to support their projects and generate income. Content creators like Casey Neistat and Vsauce have successfully crowdfunded their creative endeavors.
Casey Neistat, known for his vlogs and filmmaking, has utilized crowdfunding to support his projects, earning income through the generous contributions of his fans.
12. Television and Film Opportunities:
Many YouTubers have transitioned to traditional media platforms, opening doors to television and film opportunities. Personalities like Lilly Singh and DanTDM have ventured into television and film roles, increasing their earnings.
Lilly Singh, aka Superwoman, starred in her late-night talk show on NBC in 2020. The television opportunity contributed significantly to her income outside of YouTube.
13. Public Speaking Engagements:
YouTubers with strong personalities and thought-provoking content are often invited to speak at events or conferences, earning income through public speaking engagements. Creators like Simon Sinek and Greta Thunberg have successfully monetized their speaking skills.
Simon Sinek, known for his motivational and leadership-themed videos, is often invited to deliver keynote speeches at conferences worldwide. His public speaking engagements have contributed to his overall income.
14. Online Courses and Workshops:
Experienced YouTubers often share their knowledge and expertise through online courses or workshops, charging a fee for participants. Personalities like Peter McKinnon and Natalie Tran have successfully monetized their skills through such offerings.
Peter McKinnon, a renowned photography YouTuber, has created online courses to teach aspiring photographers. The revenue generated from these courses adds to his overall income.
15. Investment and Business Ventures:
Some YouTubers diversify their income by investing in businesses or starting entrepreneurial ventures. Figures like Phil Lester and Felix Kjellberg (PewDiePie) have wisely invested their earnings into various ventures.
Phil Lester, a prominent YouTuber, has invested in real estate properties and other businesses. The income generated from these investments adds to his overall earnings.
In conclusion, the top YouTubers who make the most money in 2020 have diversified revenue streams that include ad revenue, sponsored content, merchandise sales, and more. Their ability to monetize their talent and engage with a global audience has significantly contributed to their financial success.
References:
1. Forbes. (2020). The Highest-Paid YouTubers Of 2020: Earnings Estimates For The World’s Top-earning YouTube Stars. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/maddieberg/2020/12/18/the-highest-paid-youtube-stars-of-2020/?sh=6646c1d224bb
About the Author:
John Smith is a freelance writer and content creator with a passion for technology and digital media. With years of experience in the industry, he has gained insights into the world of YouTubers and their revenue streams. The author’s original image is a creation depicting a YouTube logo with dollar signs, symbolizing the monetary success of YouTubers.
