YouTube Thumbnail Size

The current thumbnail dimensions, aspect ratio, file limits and practical export checks for sharp YouTube previews.

Recommended3840×2160
Common fallback1280×720
Aspect ratio16:9
Full image canvas
16:9

Recommended thumbnail: 3840 × 2160

Resolution
3840 × 2160
Aspect ratio
16:9
File types
JPG, GIF, PNG
File limit
2 MB mobile · 50 MB desktop
Use it for
Best source size for sharp thumbnails across embeds and large screens.

1280 × 720 is the older common answer and still matches 16:9, but YouTube’s current help recommends uploading the largest possible 16:9 thumbnail, with 3840 × 2160 as the target.

Thumbnail readability checklist

  • Put the face, object or product in the center third.
  • Keep title text to 3-5 large words.
  • Check the thumbnail at phone size before uploading.
  • Avoid tiny UI screenshots unless they are zoomed and cropped.

Frequently asked

What is the YouTube thumbnail size?
YouTube currently recommends uploading the largest possible 16:9 thumbnail, with 3840 × 2160 pixels as the target and 640 px as the minimum width. 1280 × 720 is still a common 16:9 fallback.
Is 1280 × 720 still a good YouTube thumbnail size?
1280 × 720 still works as a 16:9 thumbnail and is widely used, but it is no longer the best source size if you can export larger. Use 3840 × 2160 when the image source supports it.
What is the YouTube thumbnail aspect ratio?
Use a 16:9 aspect ratio. It is the shape YouTube uses most often for players, previews and embeds, so a 16:9 thumbnail avoids awkward side crops.
What file type should a YouTube thumbnail be?
Use JPG, PNG or GIF. Keep the image sharp but compressed enough for the upload surface: YouTube lists different MB limits for mobile and desktop uploads.
Can I upload a custom thumbnail for YouTube Shorts?
Not the same way you can for long-form videos. YouTube’s help says Shorts use a selected frame for places like search and channel pages, and 16:9 custom thumbnails on vertical videos may be replaced by an auto-generated 4:5 image in some feeds.

Bevyl helps turn video moments into thumbnails, hooks and cuts that read clearly in-feed.

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