YoutubeToolsThumbnail Resizer and Compressor
Crop a local image to the dimensions you enter and export it as a JPEG.
Related guides
Set a widescreen thumbnail canvas to 16:9. A 1280 × 720 image is an example of that shape. For current upload recommendations and device limits, use the linked YouTube Help instructions.
Resize to your intended canvas first, then export JPEG copies at two different quality settings and compare both file size and edge detail.
Use a 16:9 crop guide while designing. Move the subject into the center region before using a centered resize.
Compare a JPEG photo export with a PNG version from your editor. Look at fine lettering and gradients, then check the current upload limit.
More creator tools
Choose the output dimensions first
Select a local image, enter a width and height, and choose a JPEG quality. The tool fills the output with a centered crop, keeping proportions. A square source resized to 1280 × 720 loses some of the top and bottom, so move the subject in your editor first if it is near an edge.
Compare two exports with the same crop
Export the same image at 90% and 75% quality. Compare their file sizes and look at small lettering, gradients, and the edges of the main subject. Keep the smaller copy only if it still reads at thumbnail size. Lower quality settings do not produce the same byte count for every image.
Keep an editable source
JPEG does not preserve transparency. If your source has transparent parts, inspect the output background before uploading. Repeatedly exporting an already compressed file can introduce more artifacts. Keep the original and create fresh copies from it when you need a different crop or size.
Verify the final file
Open the downloaded JPEG and read its pixel dimensions and file size. The canvas dimensions and exported file should agree. Compare the current upload requirements for your target destination, then use the Thumbnail Previewer to check the result at card size.