YouTube Thumbnail Resizer (16:9, Under 2 MB)
YouTube thumbnails are 16:9. YouTube recommends 3840 × 2160 px, accepts images at least 640 px wide, and limits uploads from the app to 2 MB. This page makes a 1280 × 720 JPG under 2 MB; choose the 4K preset for the full size.
- Runs on your device
- No sign-up
- Free, no watermark
This page opens the Social Media Image Resizer with the settings for this task. You can change any of them above.
YouTube thumbnail requirements
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Shape | 16:9 |
| Recommended size | 3840 × 2160 px |
| Minimum | 640 px wide |
| File size | Up to 2 MB from the app; up to 50 MB from a computer |
| Formats | JPG, PNG |
| Shorts thumbnail | 9:16, 2160 × 3840 px recommended, at least 640 px tall |
- Older versions of YouTube's help page recommended 1280 × 720 px, which is still accepted.
Source: YouTube Help: add video thumbnails. Requirements can change with each new notice, so check the one for your exam before you apply.
How to use the YouTube Thumbnail Resizer
- 01Drop your image. YouTube Thumbnail is already selected.
- 02Move the crop box. Keep text large: thumbnails are often shown very small.
- 03Press Create image and download the JPG.
- 04In YouTube Studio or the app, open the video's details and upload it as the thumbnail.
Good to know
Cropped to 16:9
Move the box over the part of your image you want; the shape stays exactly 16:9.
Under 2 MB
The JPG is compressed to fit the 2 MB limit for thumbnails uploaded from the YouTube app.
4K when you need it
Choose Thumbnail, 4K for 3840 × 2160 px, which you can upload from a computer (up to 50 MB).
Frequently asked questions
What is the YouTube thumbnail size?
16:9, ideally 3840 × 2160 px according to YouTube's help page, with a minimum width of 640 px. 1280 × 720 px is a common size that looks sharp and stays well under the 2 MB app limit.
What is the maximum file size?
2 MB when you upload from the YouTube app on a phone, and 50 MB when you upload from a computer. JPG and PNG files are accepted.
What size is a Shorts thumbnail?
9:16, ideally 2160 × 3840 px, with a minimum height of 640 px. Choose YouTube Shorts thumbnail in the Size for list.
Why does my thumbnail look blurry?
Usually because the source image was small. Start from an image at least 1280 px wide; the tool never adds detail that isn't there.
Is my image uploaded to OptiPress?
No. It's cropped and resized in your browser, and it never leaves your device.