YouTube Shorts Thumbnail Size
Complete guide to YouTube Shorts thumbnail dimensions, the vertical 9:16 format, and how Shorts thumbnails differ from regular video thumbnails.
| Recommended Size | 1080 x 1920 pixels |
| Aspect Ratio | 9:16 (vertical) |
| Maximum File Size | 2 MB |
| Accepted Formats | JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP, WebP |
| Shorts Shelf Display | ~130 x 231 px(Approximate mobile size) |
| Selection Method | Frame from video or custom upload |
- Use vertical 9:16 orientation, not the standard 16:9 landscape format.
- Design at 1080x1920 pixels for the sharpest display on mobile devices.
- Keep text in the center vertical third, as top and bottom may be obscured.
- Use bold, simple designs since Shorts thumbnails display very small in the feed.
- YouTube may auto-select a frame if you do not upload a custom thumbnail.
Frequently Asked Questions
YouTube Shorts thumbnails are 1080 x 1920 pixels in a 9:16 vertical aspect ratio. This is the opposite orientation of standard YouTube video thumbnails (1280x720, 16:9).
Yes, YouTube allows custom thumbnail uploads for Shorts. You can either select a frame from your Short or upload a custom image in 9:16 vertical format.
Yes, Shorts thumbnails appear in the Shorts shelf on your channel page, in YouTube search results, and in the Shorts feed. A compelling thumbnail can significantly increase views.
While you can upload a landscape image, it will be cropped or letterboxed to fit the vertical format. Always use 9:16 (1080x1920) for Shorts thumbnails to avoid unwanted cropping.
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