PixverterHow to resize an image for a YouTube thumbnail
- Max size is preset to 1280 × 720 px at 88% JPG quality.
- Drop your photos into the box above (iPhone HEIC photos work too).
- Download the resized JPGs and upload them.
Recommended sizes
These are the limits YouTube Studio lists for custom thumbnails. Custom thumbnails may need a verified channel; check YouTube Studio if the upload button is missing.
- Size: 1280 × 720 px (16:9). The minimum width is 640 px.
- File size: under 2 MB.
- Formats: JPG, PNG or GIF (static).
Tips for better results
- Design at 16:9. A 4:3 or square image will fit inside 1280 × 720 but leave a smaller picture.
- Keep text large: most people see thumbnails at phone size, about 160 px wide.
- If the file is still over 2 MB (rare at this size), use Compress image to 2 MB.
Resizing keeps proportions
Pixverter scales each image to fit inside the width and height you set, without stretching or cropping, and never enlarges small images. If a platform needs an exact aspect ratio (square, 16:9), crop in your photo editor first, then resize here.
Frequently asked questions
Why does YouTube say my thumbnail is too big?
Files from cameras and design apps are often 5–10 MB. Resizing to 1280 × 720 and saving as JPG brings them well under 2 MB, usually to 200–600 KB.
Can I use a screenshot from my video?
Yes. Take the screenshot, drop it here and it is sized correctly for upload.
Are my photos uploaded anywhere?
No. Pixverter processes every image inside your browser, on your own device. Nothing is sent to a server, so it is safe for personal photos and documents.