Books, videos, infotainment, and educational courses - all are great ways of attaining knowledge. However, it is a widely known fact that learning through visual cues helps you retain knowledge faster than other methods. Did you know around 65% of the general population are visual learners? When it comes to visuals, YouTube is the go-to source for students these days. In this blog, we will take you through the 20 best educational YouTube channels, which will help you find the best source of knowledge for your needs.
Why are Educational YouTube Channels a Good Idea?
Human beings have a limited span of concentration. Being this case, it is important to remember all the points you study. Studying through your basic course material is always a hassle and a time-consuming task. This is where YouTube comes in handy. Studying through the best educational YouTube channels is extremely beneficial as it helps you reduce your study time and also helps you grasp things faster. It is a widely known fact that visual learning helps humans grasp knowledge and understand concepts faster. Visual learning cues help humans remember the diagrams and pictorial information, which in turn helps them remember the information better. And while you stream YouTube, you can also explore a few top streaming services for students.
20 Best Educational YouTube Channels in 2024
You will find a ton of educational YouTube channels which you can get your share of knowledge and educational content from. However, these stand out from the rest as people around the world widely use them with a notion of trust and depiction of knowledge in the most immaculate manner. Below are the 20 best educational YouTube channels you can explore:
1. Ted-Ed
Subscribers: 20.4 Million
No. of Videos: 2.1K
USP: Engaging animated lessons
Started in 2011, Ted-Ed is the best YouTube channel for education that offers a wide range of classes, from visual arts to mathematics and more. This YouTube education channel perfectly blends storytelling with education, making complex topics easy and entertaining. As of 2024, the channel has 20 million subscribers and over 1.6 billion views. Ted-Ed is an educational initiative of the Ted-Ed project and has helped millions of students with their educational doubts.
2. Crash Course
Subscribers: 15.9 Million
No. of Videos: 1.5K
USP: Fast-paced, visually engaging educational series
Launched in 2006, Crash Course has been a go-to channel for some of the best educational content on YouTube. One of the best educational YouTube channels, it depicts content in a basic animation method without any extra spice to make it complicated. The channel covers topics such as history, science, literature, organic chemistry, and more, presenting complex concepts in a fun and accessible format. Each video is hosted by an expert in the field who breaks down the subject matter into easy segments in support of animations, graphics, and examples to improve understanding of the topic. Crash Course has become a go-to top study channel on YouTube, providing high-quality educational content.
3. Amberstudent.com
Subscribers: 154
No. of Videos: 284
USP: Practical tips, insights, & virtual tours of student housing worldwide
Touching base on home ground, we take a look at Amberstudent.com, one of the best educational YouTube channels. If you want to learn about the many renowned universities across countries, city guides, or student life hacks, this is the channel for you! It just does not stop there. Started in 2016, the channel features various videos on scholarships and topics related to studying abroad. All the videos on this best YouTube channel for education are carefully placed in specific playlists so that students can find them easily without surfing the internet for the perfect video. For more interesting videos, you can also check out our other channel, Stay With Amber.
4. Khan Academy
Subscribers: 8.56 Million
No. of Videos: 8.5K
USP: Comprehensive educational tutorials across various subjects
Khan Academy is probably the most popular and best YouTube education channel, started in 2006. Providing some of the most in-depth videos about certain theories for maths, science, computing, and economics. As the clock ticks closer to exam day, your anxiety levels can soar. A reliable study companion can help during this time. Khan Academy, with its extensive library of video lessons, breaks down complex concepts into digestible chunks. Whether you’re an auditory or a visual learner, Khan Academy, one of the best YouTube educational channels, has got you covered. The platform has a user-friendly interface and intuitive navigation, making it a breeze for students to navigate through subjects.
5. AsapSCIENCE
Subscribers: 10.7 Million
No. of Videos: 485 videos
USP: Simplified, easy-to-follow science explanations with fun animations
We all must have seen a video from AsapSCIENCE once in our lifetime. The highly engaging videos are drawn on a whiteboard with various popping colours. Started in 2012, AsapSCIENCE offers the best educational content on YouTube with a wide range of videos covering various scientific topics, from biology and chemistry to psychology and physics. It's like having your very own science class but without the boring lectures and complicated terms. Whether you're curious about how the brain works, why we yawn, or the science behind love, AsapSCIENCE, one of the best learning YouTube channels, has a video for you. However, this YouTube education channel isn't just about teaching science; it's also about sparking curiosity and inspiring wonder about the world around us.
6. National Geographic
Subscribers: 23.6 Million
No. of Videos: 10K
USP: Immersive storytelling & stunning visuals
Next on our list of the biggest educational YouTube channels is National Geographic, initiated in 2006. It is an incredible resource for anyone interested in exploring the world around them. This best YouTube education channel is known for its stunning visuals and in-depth storytelling. Through a wide range of videos, this channel covers topics such as geography, wildlife, history, culture, and environmental science. Whether you're trying to learn about different ecosystems, studying ancient civilisations, or nature, this channel has something for everyone. All you have to do is watch with all your attention and grab onto your seat for a ride around the world.
7. Life Noggin
Subscribers: 3.19 Million
No. of Videos: 699
USP: Simple quirky animations on science, philosophy, & other thought-provoking topics
Life Noggin is an engaging and one of the best YouTube channels to learn. Started in 2013, It delves into various scientific and philosophical questions. Hosted by Blocko, an animated character, Life Noggin explores various topics from the human body to space exploration and even the mysteries of the mind and existential questions about life. What sets Life Noggin apart from other educational YouTube channels is its way of presenting entertaining animation and educational content. Whether you're curious about the science behind dreams, the existence of parallel universes, or wondering what life would be like without certain senses, Life Noggin has a video for you. Life Noggin surely falls in the category of the best educational YouTube channels.
8. Applied Science
Subscribers: 845K
No. of Videos: 267
USP: In-depth technical exploration of engineering & scientific topics
Started in 2006, Applied Science is also one of the best educational YouTube channels for those interested in the practical application of scientific principles. Hosted by Ben Krasnow, this educational channel takes viewers into experimentation and engineering marvels. What makes Applied Science stand out from the rest is real-world applications and DIY projects that showcase science and technology. From building homemade electron microscopes to checking out the properties of materials under extreme conditions, each video is a treat for science students. The viewers can expect to learn something new with each video. Whether you're a science enthusiast looking for innovative DIY projects or simply curious about practical demonstration of scientific principles, this best education YouTube channel is surely a treat for a science enthusiast.
9. Veritasium
Subscribers: 16.2 Million
No. of Videos: 408 videos
USP: High-quality, thought-provoking science videos
Veritasium, created by Derek Muller, is one of the best educational YouTube channels for science lovers started in 2010. Derek has a vision of making science accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages. This educational YouTube channel covers a broad range of topics such as physics, chemistry, biology, and many more. Each video on Veritasium has a deep dive into a particular scientific concept. This channel explains topics using real-world examples and experiments to illustrate complex concepts. Veritasium often explores misconceptions and common myths, debunking them through scientific experimentation. Veritasium just is not hosted by Derek Muller, but he frequently collaborates with scientists and educators to further explain the concepts.
10. HowStuffWorks
Subscribers: 714K
No. of Videos: 1.2K
USP: Entertaining videos explaining mechanics behind everyday objects and phenomena
Next on our list of the best educational YouTube channels is HowStuffWorks, for those seeking to understand a wide range of topics in an accessible and engaging manner. The channel began in 2006. With a wide array of videos covering everything from science and technology to history and culture, the channel offers viewers the opportunity to learn about subjects in a way that is both entertaining and informative. Whether you're interested in exploring the workings of everyday gadgets, into the mysteries of the universe, or uncovering the secrets of ancient civilisations, HowStuffWorks has something for everyone.
11. SmarterEveryday
Subscribers: 11.6 Million
No. of Videos: 382
USP: Offers curious & fascinating science and engineering experiments with a personal, relatable touch
Launched in 2006, SmarterEveryday is one of the best educational YouTube channels dedicated to uncovering the fascinating aspects of science and engineering through real-world experimentation. From topics on physics and engineering marvels to aerodynamics and the natural world, you will find a range of topics on this best YouTube education channel. Using slow-motion videography, the channel breaks down complex topics into simple, relatable content.
12. Edutopia
Subscribers: 241K
No. of Videos: 934
USP: Offers educational strategies, innovative teaching methods, & success stories from classrooms
Edutopia, a project of the George Lucas Educational Foundation, improves the K-12 education system by showcasing real-world examples of innovative teaching practices. Started in 2007, it is one of the best educational channels YouTube. It covers topics, such as social-emotional learning, project-based learning, classroom management, and teacher well-being. Edutopia also features success stories from schools around the world, offering educators actionable insights to enhance their teaching methods.
13. Big Think
Subscribers: 7.27 Million
No. of Videos: 9.2K
USP: Features expert interviews and ideas from top thinkers
Big Think, started in 2006, is also one of the best learning YouTube channels. It features interviews with leading experts from various fields, such as science, philosophy, politics, and psychology. You will gain deep insights into topics like innovation, self-improvement, mental health, and the future of technology. Big Think’s videos are typically short, featuring concise answers to complex questions.
14. Minute Physics
Subscribers: 5.8 Million
No. of Videos: 280
USP: Provides quick, animated videos, simplifying complex physics concepts
One of the best educational YouTube channels, Minute Physics specialises in explaining complex physics topics through short, animated videos. Started in 2011 by Henry Reich, the channel simplifies topics like quantum mechanics, relativity, and the laws of motion. Using minimalistic yet effective animations, the channel helps viewers visualise abstract concepts easily. Whether it’s explaining how airplanes fly or the mysteries of the multiverse, this best YouTube education channel makes learning fun, quick, and easy.
15. ExpertVillage
Subscribers: 3.63 Million
No. of Videos: 256K
USP: A how-to channel offering practical advice and step-by-step tutorials on multiple tasks & skills
Want to learn how to cook, how to grow trees, or how to remove old paint from concrete floors? Then, ExpertVillage, one of the best YouTube channels to learn is for you! Since its inception in 2006, the channel has offered practical, step-by-step instructions on everyday tasks and specialised skills. On this best YouTube education channel, you will gain guidance on subjects like playing guitar, martial arts, pet care, and much more.
16. Simple History
Subscribers: 4.83 Million
No. of Videos: 1K
USP: Engaging, animated videos that bring history to life
The best YouTube channel for education, Simple History brings historical events to life through entertaining and educational animated videos. Started in 2014, the channel covers major topics like war, political movements, and key historical figures. With its simple yet engaging animations, Simple History simplifies complex events into easy-to-understand narratives. History buffs are sure to enjoy their time on Simple History, one of the best educational YouTube channels.
17. CGP Grey
Subscribers: 6.46 Million
No. of Videos: 188
USP: Uses minimalistic animations on various topics
Started in 2010, CGP Grey is known for its insightful, well-researched videos on topics, such as history, economics, and societal issues. One of the best YouTube educational channels, CGP Grey uses simple, yet highly effective animations to present complicated subjects in an easy-to-understand format. From exploring the intricacies of the Electoral College to explaining the differences between the UK and Great Britain, you will find it all here.
18. The DadLab
Subscribers: 5.19 Million
No. of Videos: 843
USP: Showcases easy-to-do science experiments and DIY crafts for kids
The DadLab, founded by Sergei Urban in 2016, is also one of the best learning YouTube channels. It focuses on easy science experiments and creative activities parents can do with their kids at home. From fun physics projects to colourful art activities, the videos encourages hands-on learning. The experiments showcased on The DadLab use everyday household items, making them accessible for families.
19. Numberphile
Subscribers: 4.56 Million
No. of Videos: 741
USP: A math-based channel that explores interesting and quirky mathematical concepts
Launched in 2011, Numberphile will fascinate math enthusiasts as it explores number-related topics like prime numbers, pi, puzzles, and mathematical theorems. Hosted by Brady Haran, it is one of the best YouTube channels to learn. It features mathematicians who explain quirky and complex mathematical concepts in an engaging manner. So, get ready to delve into the beauty of numbers and the unexpected ways math influences the world.
20. Vox
Subscribers: 12.3 Million
No. of Videos: 1.7K
USP: Explains current events and topics using compelling visuals and data-driven analysis
Last on our list of the best educational YouTube channels is Vox, started in 2014. Vox is a news and culture channel focusing on explaining current events, societal trends, and complex global issues through data-driven analysis and visually rich storytelling. Here, you will learn about topics like politics, economics, history, and science. Vox simplifies complex topics using infographics, animation, and expert interviews, making it the best YouTube channel for education.
So, this was our list of the 20 best educational YouTube channels where you can find your perfect pick and start grasping knowledge like a bookworm. From science and technology to history, language, and beyond, these channels offer the best educational videos on YouTube, offering a wealth of knowledge in a format that is both entertaining and informative.