YouTube Crowned World’s #1 Social Media Platform in 2025 – Surpasses 3.9 Billion Users!
In a groundbreaking shift, YouTube has officially become the most popular social media platform in the world, dethroning Facebook with a staggering 3.9 billion monthly active users—nearly half the global population!
But YouTube isn’t the only platform making waves. Messaging apps and short-form video networks like TikTok, Instagram, and Telegram are rapidly climbing the ranks, reshaping the social media landscape.
Here’s the latest breakdown of the top 35 social media giants—and the fastest-growing platforms you need to watch in 2025!
The Top 5 Social Media Platforms Dominating 2025
1. YouTube – 3.9 Billion Users
Owned by Alphabet, YouTube now reigns supreme with 70.4 billion monthly visits. Despite being banned in China, Iran, and Russia, its global dominance is unmatched.
2. Facebook – 2.1 Billion Users
Once the undisputed king, Meta’s Facebook now sits at #2, still pulling in 13.1 billion monthly visits.
3. Instagram – 1.6 Billion Users
The short-video powerhouse continues to thrive, with 7.2 billion monthly visits as Reels compete head-to-head with TikTok.
4. WeChat – 1.38 Billion Users
China’s super-app combines messaging, payments, and social networking, making it indispensable in Asia.
5. Reddit – 1.1 Billion Users
The “front page of the internet” has exploded in popularity, hitting 6.2 billion monthly visits thanks to its niche communities.
Fastest-Growing Social Media Platforms to Watch
🚀 Telegram – 367% Growth in 5 Years
With 900 million users, Telegram’s privacy-focused messaging is exploding, especially among activists and businesses.
🎵 TikTok – 733% Growth in 5 Years
Despite US ban threats, TikTok remains a cultural force with 954 million users and 2.6 billion monthly visits.
📱 Xiaohongshu (RedNote) – 99x Growth!
China’s answer to Instagram + TikTok + Amazon is now worth $17 billion, attracting US creators fleeing TikTok bans.
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💬 WhatsApp – 112% Growth
Meta’s encrypted messaging app now has 571 million users and 3.8 billion visits—essential for global communication.
📈 Reddit – 140% Growth
From memes to deep discussions, Reddit’s authentic communities are driving massive engagement.
Key Takeaways: What’s Next for Social Media?
- Short-form video is king – YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram Reels dominate.
- Messaging apps are rising – WhatsApp, Telegram, and Discord prioritize privacy & community.
- China’s platforms are growing – WeChat, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu are unstoppable in Asia.
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Which platform surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments! 🚀
Source: Exploding Topics
