What size should a YouTube thumbnail be?

YouTube recommends a thumbnail size of 1280×720 pixels with a minimum width of 640 pixels. The aspect ratio is 16:9. This tool outputs the recommended 1280×720 px resolution.

How do I make the text stand out on the thumbnail?

This tool renders the title text in large bold font with a dark drop shadow, which ensures readability on virtually any background image. Choose a shorter, punchy title for best results.

What file format should YouTube thumbnails be?

YouTube accepts PNG, JPG, and GIF files under 2 MB. This tool exports PNG, which provides the best quality for text and graphics.

YouTube Thumbnail Generator

Create a 1280×720 YouTube thumbnail with a background image and bold title text overlay.

Background image (optional)

Background color

#ff0000

Title text

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FAQ

What size should a YouTube thumbnail be?: YouTube recommends a thumbnail size of 1280×720 pixels with a minimum width of 640 pixels. The aspect ratio is 16:9. This tool outputs the recommended 1280×720 px resolution.
How do I make the text stand out on the thumbnail?: This tool renders the title text in large bold font with a dark drop shadow, which ensures readability on virtually any background image. Choose a shorter, punchy title for best results.
What file format should YouTube thumbnails be?: YouTube accepts PNG, JPG, and GIF files under 2 MB. This tool exports PNG, which provides the best quality for text and graphics.

Design a YouTube thumbnail at the standard 1280×720 pixel (16:9) resolution. Upload a background image that will be center-cropped to fit. Add a title text that renders in large, bold white font with a dark drop shadow for maximum visibility. Preview the thumbnail in real time and download as PNG ready to upload to YouTube Studio.