YouTube Thumbnail Size and Specs 2026
Every upload spec at a glance, with sources.
YouTube Thumbnail 2026: aspect ratio 16:9, 9:16, recommended 3840x2160, files up to 50 MB.
All specs
| Aspect ratio | 16:9, 9:16 |
|---|---|
| Recommended resolution | 3840x2160 |
| Minimum resolution | 640 px width (videos); 640 px height (Shorts) |
| Maximum file size | 50 MB |
| File types | JPG, PNG |
Notes (from the sources, in English): Recommended 3840x2160 for videos and 2160x3840 for Shorts. Size limit 50 MB on desktop, 2 MB on mobile (10 MB for podcasts). Podcast playlists use 1:1. Vertical videos with 16:9 custom thumbnails get an auto-generated 4:5 thumbnail on home, explore and subscriptions.
Work out bitrate and file size with the file size calculator. Check caption length with the 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
Checked: 2026-10-13. Confidence: official. All platforms in one table: social media video specs 2026
Other YouTube formats
FAQ
What size is a YouTube Thumbnail?
The recommended size is 3840x2160 with an aspect ratio of 16:9, 9:16.
What is the maximum file size for a YouTube Thumbnail?
Up to 50 MB.
More free tools
Safe Zone CheckerDrop a 9:16 image or video and see exactly which parts the Reels, TikT…Aspect Ratio CalculatorEnter width and height to get the ratio, then scale to a new size with…Video File Size & Bitrate CalculatorWork out how big a video will be at a given bitrate, or which bitrate …Character Counter for CreatorsPaste your title or caption. See the character limit, how much is visi…