Available sizes
| Name | Size | File |
|---|---|---|
| HD (maxres) | 1280 × 720 | maxresdefault.jpg |
| SD | 640 × 480 | sddefault.jpg |
| HQ | 480 × 360 | hqdefault.jpg |
| MQ | 320 × 180 | mqdefault.jpg |
| Small | 120 × 90 | default.jpg |
If the HD image appears grey or missing, the creator uploaded a lower-resolution thumbnail — use SD or HQ.
Legitimate uses
- Downloading your own thumbnails for backups, websites and social posts.
- Design research — studying thumbnail styles that get clicks in your niche.
- Embedding a video preview on your own page with credit and a link to the video.
Copyright
Thumbnails belong to the video's creator. Using someone else's thumbnail on your own videos or products without permission can infringe copyright. When in doubt, ask or create your own.
Thumbnail design tips
- Upload at 1280 × 720 (16:9), under 2 MB.
- Use a clear face or subject, high contrast and 3–5 words of large text.
- Check readability at small sizes — most views happen on phones.
Embed the video with the YouTube Embed Code Generator; download a channel's profile picture with the Channel Logo Downloader.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a YouTube thumbnail in HD?
Paste the video link and download the HD 1280×720 image. If it is grey, the creator uploaded a smaller thumbnail; use the SD version.
Is it legal to download YouTube thumbnails?
Downloading for personal use, research or your own videos is fine. Reusing someone else's thumbnail commercially may infringe their copyright.
What size should a YouTube thumbnail be?
1280 × 720 pixels with a 16:9 ratio, under 2 MB, as JPG or PNG.
Does it work with Shorts?
Yes. Paste a Shorts link; the video ID is extracted and its thumbnails are shown.