YouTube thumbnail downloader
Paste a YouTube link or video ID to see every thumbnail size the video has, then download the one you need. Handy for studying what works before you design your own at the correct 1280 by 720.
Which thumbnail size should I grab?
The maxres image is 1280 by 720, the same size you should design your own thumbnails at. Smaller versions exist for previews, but for reference or a high quality copy, take the maxres one when it is available.
Making your own thumbnail
When you are ready to design one, the correct spec is 1280 by 720 pixels, 16:9, under 2 MB. Our YouTube thumbnail size page has the full rules and a resizer preloaded to that size.
Frequently asked questions
How do I download a YouTube thumbnail?
Paste the video link or its 11-character ID above and press Get thumbnails. You will see every available size, from the 1280 by 720 maxres image down to smaller versions, each with a download button.
Why is the maxres thumbnail missing?
Not every video has a 1280 by 720 maxres image; older or lower-resolution uploads may only have the HD (480 by 360) version. If maxres does not load, use the next size down.
Is it legal to download a thumbnail?
Thumbnails are copyrighted by their owner. Downloading one for reference or personal use is common, but do not republish someone else's thumbnail as your own.
Do you upload or store the video?
No. The tool simply points at the public thumbnail images hosted by YouTube. Nothing about your request is stored on our side.