Add Text to Thumbnails That Gets Read at Every Size
Master thumbnail typography with the right fonts, sizes, colors, and placement to make your text impossible to ignore.
Step-by-Step Guide
Choose the right font
Use bold, sans-serif fonts like Impact, Bebas Neue, or Montserrat Black. Avoid thin, decorative, or serif fonts that become unreadable at small sizes.
Tip: Stick to one or two fonts maximum. More than two looks cluttered and unprofessional.
Size your text for mobile
Text should fill at least 20-30% of the thumbnail height. If viewers cannot read it on a phone screen, it is too small.
Tip: Preview at 160x90 pixels -- if you can still read the text, it is large enough.
Use high-contrast colors
White or yellow text on dark backgrounds, or dark text with bright outlines. The text color must contrast sharply with whatever is behind it.
Tip: Add a black stroke (2-4px) around light text for readability on any background.
Place text strategically
Position text in the top-left or bottom area. Avoid the bottom-right corner where YouTube places the video duration. Leave space for your subject.
Tip: Avoid the bottom-right 15% of the thumbnail -- YouTube overlays the timestamp there.
Write compelling copy
Use 3-5 words that add context beyond the video title. Numbers, power words (shocking, secret, easy), and questions all boost engagement.
Tip: Use ALL CAPS for maximum impact, but keep it to one line.
Frequently Asked Questions
What font is best for YouTube thumbnails?
Bold sans-serif fonts work best. Popular choices include Impact, Bebas Neue, Montserrat Black, and Oswald Bold. The key is high readability at small sizes.
Should every thumbnail have text?
Not necessarily. Some top creators use thumbnails with no text at all. However, for most channels, 3-5 words of text can increase CTR by providing context that the image alone cannot convey.
How do I make text readable over a busy background?
Add a text stroke (outline), drop shadow, or a semi-transparent background shape behind the text. You can also blur or darken the area behind the text.
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