YouTube thumbnail size (1280×720, 16:9)
The recommended YouTube thumbnail size is 1280×720 with a 16:9 ratio.
If you searched what size is YouTube thumbnail, size of YouTube thumbnail, or thumbnail size for YouTube: the answer is 1280×720.
Size and ratio
1280×720 (16:9)
Start at 1280×720 to avoid upscaling blur.
File size limit
Keep thumbnails under 2MB. JPG is usually the smallest.
Use PNG only for text-heavy designs if JPG looks fuzzy.
YouTube thumbnail size in Canva
In Canva, pick a YouTube Thumbnail template, or set a custom size: 1280×720 (16:9). Export JPG if you need to keep the file under 2MB.
Best / recommended size
For almost all channels, the best YouTube thumbnail size is 1280×720 (16:9). Uploading smaller images can look blurry.
3 steps (using this tool)
- Open the 1280×720 preset.
- Use Crop (fill) to get a full thumbnail frame.
- Export JPG at ~90 quality or PNG for sharp text.
Text legibility
Thumbnails are tiny on mobile. Use large fonts and strong contrast.
Profile picture size
YouTube profile pictures use 800×800 (1:1). Keep logos centered for the circular crop.
Video size & aspect ratio
Standard YouTube videos use 16:9 (for example 1920×1080). Shorts are typically 9:16 (1080×1920).
Sources
Last checked: 2026-02-05
- YouTube Help: Add video thumbnails — Mentions 1280×720 (16:9) and max 2MB for custom thumbnails.
FAQ
What size is a YouTube thumbnail?
The best YouTube thumbnail size (YouTube recommended thumbnail size) is 1280×720 (16:9).
Quick tip: Start at 1280×720 to avoid upscaling blur.
Common mistake: Using a smaller image—thumbnails look soft after scaling.
YouTube thumbnail file size limit?
Keep the file under 2MB. JPG usually hits the target easily.
Quick tip: If you need crisp text, try PNG but watch the file size.
Common mistake: Uploading oversized PNGs—YouTube may reject or compress.
YouTube thumbnail size in Canva?
Set a Canva canvas to 1280×720 px (16:9) or use a YouTube Thumbnail template.
Quick tip: Export as JPG/PNG and keep the file under 2MB.
Common mistake: Designing at the wrong ratio—Canva exports won’t match 16:9 and YouTube may crop.
Do you upload my images?
No. Processing happens locally in your browser. Your files are not uploaded.
What size should I use?
Use 1280x720 (16:9).
Which export format should I use?
JPG for photos, PNG for text/logos or transparency, WebP for smaller files (if supported).
Crop vs Pad — what is the difference?
Crop fills the target size (may cut edges). Pad fits the whole image and adds background/space.
How do I protect text and logos?
Keep important content centered and avoid placing critical text at the edges.
Can I batch resize?
Yes. Use the Batch Resizer to apply the same size to many images.