Millions of people around the world have been captivated by stories of mystery, intrigue, and justice in the true crime genre in recent years. YouTube has become a treasure trove for those who seek spine-tingling stories and deep dives into real-life cases, particularly documentaries and podcasts. True crime channels are worth watching whether you’re a casual observer or a die-hard fan. Here are 15 of the best true crime YouTube channels you didn’t know you needed—and trust me, once you start watching, you won’t stop.
Why True Crime on YouTube?
Perhaps you are wondering why YouTube is on the list? Unlike podcasts or Netflix documentaries, the platform features visual storytelling, long-form investigations, and community interaction. YouTube creators often bring a fresh perspective to cases by combining meticulous research with engaging visuals, commentary, and even interviews with key figures.
1. Bailey Sarian
- Overview: One of the most popular true crime creators, Bailey Sarian offers a mix of murder mystery and makeup tutorials in her famous “Murder, Mystery & Makeup” series.
- What makes it special: Bailey’s laid-back, conversational tone makes you feel like you’re chatting with a friend while getting drawn into chilling cases.
- Pros: Unique format, highly engaging storytelling, relatable host.
- Cons: Some may find the combination of makeup and murder an odd pairing.
Key Video to Watch: The Story of The Turpin Family: 13 Children Held Captive
2. That Chapter
- Overview: Hosted by Irish creator Mike, That Chapter dives into murder mysteries, disappearances, and unsolved cases with a touch of dark humor.
- What makes it special: Mike’s witty commentary and expert pacing keep you hooked from start to finish.
- Pros: Excellent narration, well-researched content, perfect for binge-watching.
- Cons: Some may not enjoy the humor in serious cases.
Key Video to Watch: The Case of Chris Watts: The Family Man Who Wasn’t
3. Kendall Rae
- Overview: Kendall Rae is known for her compassionate approach to covering true crime, often advocating for the victims and raising awareness about ongoing cases.
- What makes it special: Her deep empathy and commitment to justice make her channel stand out in a crowded space.
- Pros: Empathetic, covers lesser-known cases, community-driven content.
- Cons: A more serious tone that may not appeal to all viewers.
Key Video to Watch: The Disappearance of Maura Murray: 16 Years Later
4. MrBallen
- Overview: A former Navy SEAL turned YouTuber, Mr. Ballen tells “strange, dark, and mysterious” stories that are often lesser-known but deeply fascinating.
- What makes it special: His military background adds a layer of authority and intrigue, making each story gripping.
- Pros: Suspenseful storytelling, lesser-known cases, unique perspective.
- Cons: Sometimes focuses more on the mysterious than pure crime.
Key Video to Watch: Top 3 Places You Can’t Go and People Who Went Anyway
5. Stephanie Harlowe
- Overview: Stephanie Harlowe combines true crime with historical events, offering comprehensive breakdowns of infamous cases.
- What makes it special: Her meticulous research and detailed storytelling make her channel perfect for true crime enthusiasts who crave depth.
- Pros: In-depth research, multi-part series, covers historical crimes.
- Cons: Some videos can be very long and detailed.
Key Video to Watch: The JonBenet Ramsey Case Series
6. JCS – Criminal Psychology
- Overview: JCS – Criminal Psychology focuses on police interrogations, breaking down the body language and tactics used by both the police and the suspects.
- What makes it special: This channel offers a rare, educational look into the psychological side of true crime.
- Pros: Unique focus on interrogation tactics, educational and informative.
- Cons: Fewer cases covered compared to other channels.
Key Video to Watch: What Pretending to Be Crazy Looks Like
7. Danielle Kirsty
- Overview: Another makeup and crime channel, Danielle Kirsty walks viewers through grisly stories while doing full-glam makeup.
- What makes it special: Her candid style and attention to detail in both her makeup and storytelling create an engaging experience.
- Pros: Fun, light-hearted tone despite the serious subject matter.
- Cons: Like Bailey Sarian, the makeup angle might not appeal to everyone.
Key Video to Watch: The Case of Junko Furuta: Japan’s Most Horrific Crime
8. Cayleigh Elise
- Overview: Cayleigh Elise delves into the world of unsolved mysteries and eerie disappearances in her haunting, atmospheric videos.
- What makes it special: The way Cayleigh tells these stories is truly haunting, with moody visuals that set the tone.
- Pros: Well-produced, haunting atmosphere; focuses on unsolved cases.
- Cons: Less frequent uploads.
Key Video to Watch: The Disappearance of Asha Degree
9. Coffeehouse Crime
- Overview: Coffeehouse Crime offers a relaxed, story-driven approach to true crime, perfect for those who want a slower, more detailed analysis of cases.
- What makes it special: The laid-back style and thorough breakdowns make it feel like you’re listening to an old friend share stories.
- Pros: Relaxed vibe, well-researched, easy listening.
- Cons: Some may find the pace too slow.
Key Video to Watch: The Case of Amy Allwine: The Hit Ordered on a Housewife
10. Danelle Hallan
- Overview: Focusing primarily on missing persons, Danelle Hallan raises awareness and provides in-depth research on ongoing investigations.
- What makes it special: Her dedication to helping families and shining light on unsolved cases is admirable.
- Pros: Focus on missing persons, deeply empathetic, well-researched.
- Cons: Tends to focus on less well-known cases, which may not appeal to all.
Key Video to Watch: The Mysterious Disappearance of Susan Powell
11. Real Stories
- Overview: This channel features a broad selection of documentaries, with a particular focus on true crime and real-life mysteries.
- What makes it special: Full-length documentaries that give viewers a more comprehensive understanding of each case.
- Pros: Professional quality; covers diverse topics.
- Cons: Not exclusively focused on true crime.
Key Video to Watch: The Silence of the Lamb: The Real Story Behind the Film
12. The Casual Criminalist
- Overview: Hosted by Simon Whistler, The Casual Criminalist takes a casual yet thoroughly researched approach to some of the most notorious cases in history.
- What makes it special: Simon’s humorous commentary combined with deep research make the content highly engaging.
- Pros: Entertaining, well-researched, and easy to follow.
- Cons: The humor might not suit every true crime fan.
Key Video to Watch: The Story of Ted Bundy: America’s Most Infamous Serial Killer
13. BuzzFeed Unsolved: True Crime
- Overview: This beloved series, hosted by Ryan Bergara and Shane Madej, explores both solved and unsolved cases with a mix of humor and seriousness.
- What makes it special: The dynamic between Ryan (the true crime fanatic) and Shane (the skeptic) creates a perfect balance of tension and humor.
- Pros: Entertaining; covers a mix of well-known and obscure cases.
- Cons: Some may find the comedic tone inappropriate for serious cases.
Key Video to Watch: The Mysterious Death of Elisa Lam
14. Eleanor Neale
- Overview: Eleanor Neale covers some of the most chilling and graphic true crime cases with a calm, collected narrative style.
- What makes it special: Eleanor’s ability to tackle disturbing cases while maintaining a respectful tone sets her apart.
- Pros: Covers controversial cases, respectful tone.
- Cons: Graphic nature of cases may not be suitable for all viewers.
Key Video to Watch: The Disturbing Case of Skylar Neese
15. True Crime Daily
- Overview: True Crime Daily provides daily reports on crime news, covering a variety of cases from across the globe.
- What makes it special: This channel offers a quick, no-nonsense approach to true crime for those who prefer more bite-sized content.
- Pros: Daily uploads cover a wide range of cases.
- Cons: Shorter, less detailed content compared to other channels.
Key Video to Watch: The Case of Lori Vallow: Where Are Her Missing Children?
Key Takeaways
- Variety is key. From makeup tutorials to in-depth criminal psychology, the true crime genre on YouTube offers a wide range of styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Community matters: Many of these creators have strong fanbases and advocate for justice and awareness, adding a community-driven aspect to their content.
- Perfect for binge-watching: With content ranging from short daily updates to multi-hour deep dives, true crime channels are the perfect way to satisfy your crime cravings.
FAQs
1. Are these YouTube channels suitable for sensitive viewers?
While some channels like Danelle Hallan and Kendall Rae take a more empathetic and sensitive approach, others like JCS or That Chapter cover disturbing details that may not be suitable for everyone.
2. How often do these creators post new content?
Most channels on this list post regularly, with creators like MrBallen and True Crime Daily uploading frequently. However, channels like Cayleigh Elise may have less consistent schedules.
3. Can I find videos on lesser-known cases?
Yes! Channels like Coffeehouse Crime, Stephanie Harlowe, and Eleanor Neale specialize in covering lesser-known cases that you won’t often find in mainstream media.
Whether you’re already a true crime fanatic or just dipping your toes into the genre, these 15 true crime YouTube channels offer endless content to keep you on the edge of your seat. From makeup-fueled storytelling to deep psychological analysis, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.
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