How to make a YouTube thumbnail
Updated · about 10 minutes
YouTube thumbnails are 1280×720 (16:9). The Thumbnail Maker starts at that size and gives you layers: photos, background removal, bold text styles and color tweaks.
Free tool used in this guideThumbnail MakerDesign YouTube-style thumbnails. No signup, nothing uploaded.OpenStep by step
- 1
Open the Thumbnail Maker
The canvas starts at YouTube thumbnail size (1280×720).
- 2
Add a background and your photo
Choose a color or gradient background, then add your photo as a layer.
- 3
Cut yourself out
Use background removal on the photo layer so you stand in front of the background.
- 4
Add text
Add 2–4 big words. Bold outline and Box styles stay readable at small sizes.
- 5
Export
Save as JPG for YouTube (under 2 MB), or PNG.
Tips
- Check the thumbnail at a small size: most viewers see it on a phone.
- Faces with clear expressions and high contrast get more clicks.
Questions
What is the YouTube thumbnail size?
1280×720 pixels (16:9), under 2 MB, in JPG, PNG or GIF.
Also useful: Background Remover, Image Editor