YouTube Size Dimensions Guide

If you’re a content creator or digital marketer, understanding the correct YouTube size dimensions is crucial. YouTube has specific guidelines for video uploads, thumbnails, channel art, profile pictures, and ads. Using the correct dimensions ensures your content looks sharp and professional across all devices.

1. YouTube Video Dimensions

• Standard Aspect Ratio: 16:9

• Recommended Resolution:

  • 2160p (4K): 3840 x 2160

  • 1440p (2K): 2560 x 1440

  • 1080p (Full HD): 1920 x 1080

  • 720p (HD): 1280 x 720

  • 480p (SD): 854 x 480

Always upload in the highest resolution possible for better video quality and future-proofing.

2. YouTube Thumbnail Size

• Recommended Dimensions: 1280 x 720 pixels

• Minimum Width: 640 pixels

• Aspect Ratio: 16:9

• File Size Limit: 2MB

• Formats: JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP

Use bold text and a close-up image for thumbnails. Make sure it’s readable on mobile devices.

3. YouTube Channel Art (Banner) Size

• Recommended Size: 2560 x 1440 pixels

• Safe Area (Visible on All Devices): 1546 x 423 pixels

• Maximum File Size: 6MB

• Formats: JPG or PNG

Keep important text and logos within the safe area so they don’t get cut off on smaller screens.

4. YouTube Profile Picture

• Size: 800 x 800 pixels

• Aspect Ratio: 1:1 (Square)

• Formats: JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP

Even though the image is square, it appears as a circle. Make sure the logo or face is centered.

5. YouTube Ad Sizes (for Display Ads)

• In-Video Overlay Ads: 480 x 70 pixels (Desktop only)

• Display Ads (Sidebar): 300 x 250 pixels

• Skippable Video Ads: Same as standard video sizes (16:9, ideally 1920 x 1080)

• Non-Skippable Ads: Also follow the 16:9 format

Summary Table

• Always test your designs on mobile and desktop views.

• Stick to high-resolution images to avoid blurriness.

• Use YouTube’s channel preview tools when uploading banner art.