Resize an Image for a YouTube Thumbnail
The 3840×2160, 16:9 thumbnail preset is selected according to current YouTube guidance.
Current YouTube thumbnail dimensions
YouTube recommends 3840×2160 pixels, a minimum width of 640 pixels, and a 16:9 aspect ratio for standard video thumbnails.
The preset fills a 16:9 frame and can crop edges. Keep titles, faces, and logos away from the outer boundary.
How to resize a YouTube thumbnail
- 1
Add an image
Select the artwork or photo for your thumbnail.
- 2
Review the 16:9 crop
Reposition important content if the original ratio differs.
- 3
Download
Save the resized thumbnail and upload it in YouTube Studio.
Frequently asked questions
What is YouTube’s recommended thumbnail size?+
Current YouTube guidance recommends 3840×2160 pixels for standard video thumbnails.
Will a smaller image be enlarged?+
Not by default. Do not upscale is enabled, so smaller sources can remain below the target.
Can the preset crop my image?+
Yes. A non-16:9 source can be cropped to fill the frame, so check the preview.
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