# YouTube Channel banner Size and Specs 2026

Every upload spec at a glance, with sources.

URL: https://shortformkit.com/youtube-channel-banner-size/
Updated: 2026-10-12

**YouTube Channel banner 2026: aspect ratio 16:9, recommended 2560x1440, files up to 6 MB.**

## All specs

| Aspect ratio | 16:9 |
|---|---|
| Recommended resolution | 2560x1440 |
| Minimum resolution | 2048x1152 |
| Maximum file size | 6 MB |

Notes (from the sources, in English): Safe area for text and logos at minimum size: 1235x338 px. Same banner is used on computer, mobile and TV but is cropped differently. No borders, shadows or frames. Banner file types are not listed on the help page.

Work out bitrate and file size with the [file size calculator](https://shortformkit.com/video-file-size-calculator/). Check caption length with the [character counter](https://shortformkit.com/character-counter/).

## Changes in 2025 and 2026

- From 2025-03-31 Shorts views count every start or replay with no minimum watch time.
- Official Artist Channels: square or vertical videos up to 3 minutes uploaded on or after 2025-12-08 are classified as Shorts (standard channels since 2024-10-15).
- Custom thumbnail guidance now recommends 3840x2160 (2160x3840 for Shorts) with up to 50 MB on desktop (2 MB on mobile). Change date not stated.

## Sources

- [Manage your channel branding (YouTube Help)](https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/10456525?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop) (official)

Checked: 2026-10-13. Confidence: official. [All platforms in one table: social media video specs 2026](https://shortformkit.com/social-media-video-specs-2026/)

## Other YouTube formats

- [YouTube Long-form video](https://shortformkit.com/youtube-long-form-video-size/)
- [YouTube Shorts](https://shortformkit.com/youtube-shorts-size/)
- [YouTube Thumbnail](https://shortformkit.com/youtube-thumbnail-size/)

## FAQ

**What size is a YouTube Channel banner?**
The recommended size is 2560x1440 with an aspect ratio of 16:9.

**What is the maximum file size for a YouTube Channel banner?**
Up to 6 MB.


Source: Shortform Kit (https://shortformkit.com/youtube-channel-banner-size/). Free, no login.