The visibility setting for a YouTube channel’s subscriber count dictates whether other users can see the number of people following the channel. This setting is managed within the YouTube Studio and offers creators control over the presentation of their channel’s statistics. For instance, a channel may choose to display its subscriber count to project popularity or hide it to downplay its perceived size.
Displaying the subscriber count can build credibility and social proof, potentially attracting new viewers and subscribers. Channels with higher visible subscriber numbers often appear more established and trustworthy. Historically, the default setting was for subscriber counts to be publicly visible, reflecting an era when channel growth was more openly tracked and celebrated within the YouTube community.