YouTube thumbnails

A YouTube thumbnail is the cover of any video that is uploaded to YouTube ad lets viewers see a quick snapshot of your content while they're browsing YouTube. YouTube thumbnails are generated automatically or you can upload a custom YouTube thumbnail.

A custom-made YouTube thumbnail can be used for any YouTube video category, for example:

• Personal vlogs
• Travel vlogs
• How-to videos
• DIY vlogs
• Fitness and exercise videos
• ASMR videos
• Fashion haul videos

Why you need YouTube thumbnails

The thumbnails that are selected by YouTube automatically are not always the best, and may end up telling the viewer nothing of what the video is actually about.

With the help of custom YouTube thumbnails, you can tell a much more intriguing story and persuade the viewer to click on your video.

How to create a YouTube thumbnail

Here are some key ingredients that will make your YouTube thumbnail really clickable:

• An expressive headshot
• A header in big, bold letters
• Contrasting colors (for example, dark objects on bright backdrops)

To design your custom YouTube thumbnail, start by logging in to Infogram. Choose the YouTube thumbnail format and browse our vast library of designer-made templates or create your own image from scratch. Customize your YouTube thumbnail by adding images, text, icons, and other elements in our easy-to-use editor. Finally, download your YouTube thumbnail and add it to your video as you upload it to YouTube.

Best YouTube thumbnail examples

At Infogram, we've created an easy-to-use tool that helps anyone create powerful email headers that stand out in minutes. No design experience is required.

Browse our YouTube thumbnail examples on Infogram and subscribe to our newsletter for tips and trends delivered right to your inbox.