YouTube Thumbnail Size: The Complete Guide
By Shah Rukh, software developer · Last updated:
The ideal YouTube thumbnail size is 1280 × 720 pixels (16:9), with a minimum width of 640 pixels and a file size under 2 MB, in JPG, PNG or GIF format.
YouTube thumbnail requirements
| Setting | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Recommended size | 1280 × 720 pixels |
| Minimum width | 640 pixels |
| Aspect ratio | 16:9 |
| File size | Under 2 MB |
| File formats | JPG, PNG, GIF (not animated) |
| Account | Must be verified to upload custom thumbnails |
These are YouTube’s published guidelines at the time of writing. YouTube updates them occasionally, so check YouTube Help if an upload is rejected.
How to make a thumbnail the right size
- Design your thumbnail at 1280 × 720 in any editor, or take a screenshot or photo you like.
- Open the image resizer, choose the YouTube thumbnail (1280×720) preset, and it crops your image to exactly 16:9.
- If the file is over 2 MB, run it through the image compressor as a JPG at about 80% quality.
- In YouTube Studio, open the video’s Details, click Upload thumbnail, and choose your file.
Thumbnail design tips
- Design for a small screen. Most people see thumbnails on phones, often only about 2 cm wide. Use big shapes and a few large words.
- Keep the bottom-right corner clear. The video length label covers it.
- Use strong contrast between the subject and the background.
- Faces and emotion tend to draw attention, but the thumbnail must honestly match the video.
- Be consistent across your channel so viewers recognise your videos.
What about Shorts?
YouTube Shorts are vertical (9:16), and their thumbnails are usually chosen from a frame of the video. Make sure an attractive moment appears in the Short itself.
Want to study thumbnails that work? Grab any video’s thumbnail with the YouTube thumbnail downloader.
Want your exact number? Use the free YouTube Thumbnail Downloader. It takes about 30 seconds.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a YouTube thumbnail?
1280 × 720 pixels, in a 16:9 ratio. The minimum width is 640 pixels.
What is the maximum file size for a YouTube thumbnail?
YouTube asks for custom thumbnails under 2 MB. Use the image compressor if yours is bigger.
What formats can YouTube thumbnails be?
JPG, PNG and GIF (non-animated). JPG is usually the smallest for photos.
Why can’t I upload a custom thumbnail?
Custom thumbnails need a verified YouTube account. Verify your account in YouTube Studio, usually with a phone number.
Can I get the thumbnail of an existing video?
Yes. Paste the video link into the YouTube thumbnail downloader to see it in all available sizes.