Use a 16:9 canvas
3840 x 2160 pixels is the current recommended size. Wider or taller artwork may be cropped in previews.
YouTube creator tool
Thumbnail checker
Check upload requirements, preview common placements, and export a corrected 3840 x 2160 image.
Drop a JPEG or PNG here
or choose a file from your device
Your thumbnail appears here
Use the sample or select an image.
Placement overlays are approximate previews, not official upload constraints.
Current upload guidance
What makes a YouTube thumbnail ready?
A strong upload starts with the technical basics. This checker evaluates those basics before you open YouTube Studio.
Keep enough resolution
The image should be at least 640 pixels wide. Small files can look soft on televisions and high-density screens.
Stay below the limit
The checker targets a file size of 2 MB or less and can export a compressed JPEG when the original is too large.
Check interface overlap
Keep critical text and faces away from the lower-right duration label and other likely interface areas.
Quick answers
Thumbnail checker FAQ
Does this score thumbnail quality or CTR?
No. It checks technical readiness and placement previews. It does not claim to predict clicks or judge creative quality.
Are the safe-area overlays official?
No. They are approximate guides for common interface elements. YouTube can change crops and controls by device and placement.
Where do the upload requirements come from?
Rules are reviewed against the official YouTube Help guidance. Last reviewed July 12, 2026.