What is the correct YouTube thumbnail size?

YouTube recommends 1280 by 720 pixels, a 16:9 ratio, kept under 2 MB. This preset sets those dimensions automatically.

Should I use cover or fit for a thumbnail?

Use cover so the image fills the whole 1280 by 720 frame with no empty bars. Use fit only when cropping would cut off something you need to keep.

My thumbnail file is too big. What do I do?

Save it as JPG and lower the quality a little, or switch to WebP. You can also use the Target KB mode to force it under 2 MB.

Resize Image for a YouTube Thumbnail (1280 x 720)

Resize any image to the 1280 x 720 YouTube thumbnail size in one click. Fill and crop or fit with padding, then download. No upload, no watermark.

Drop an image hereor click to choose a file. JPG, PNG, WebP, or GIF.

Nothing is uploaded. Your image is resized right here in your browser and never leaves your device.

The right size for a YouTube thumbnail

YouTube recommends a thumbnail of 1280 by 720 pixels at a 16:9 ratio, saved under 2 MB. Upload something at that exact size and it stays crisp everywhere it appears, from the watch page to the sidebar to a phone.

This preset sets 1280 by 720 for you. Choose cover so your image fills the whole frame and any overflow is cropped, which keeps the thumbnail edge to edge with no black bars. Choose fit if the shot has to stay whole and you are fine with padding on the sides.

If the file comes out large, save it as JPG and nudge the quality down a little, or use WebP for a smaller file at the same look. Need a tighter frame first? Crop the image, then come back and apply the preset. For every other platform size, see the social media size guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is the correct YouTube thumbnail size?: YouTube recommends 1280 by 720 pixels, a 16:9 ratio, kept under 2 MB. This preset sets those dimensions automatically.
Should I use cover or fit for a thumbnail?: Use cover so the image fills the whole 1280 by 720 frame with no empty bars. Use fit only when cropping would cut off something you need to keep.
My thumbnail file is too big. What do I do?: Save it as JPG and lower the quality a little, or switch to WebP. You can also use the Target KB mode to force it under 2 MB.