How Long Does It Take for a YouTube Thumbnail to Change?
A Comprehensive Guide to Changing YouTube Thumbnails
When you update a thumbnail for a YouTube video, the change typically takes effect almost immediately. However, it can take a few minutes for the updated thumbnail to appear on all devices and platforms due to caching. This guide will walk you through the process of changing your YouTube thumbnail and provide guidelines to ensure your thumbnail is optimized for maximum visibility and engagement.
How to Change the Thumbnail on a YouTube Video
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to update your YouTube video thumbnail:
Sign In to YouTube: Go to and sign in to your account. Access YouTube Studio: Click on your profile icon in the top right corner. Select YouTube Studio from the dropdown menu. Find Your Video: In the left sidebar, click on Content. Locate the video for which you want to change the thumbnail. Edit Video: Click on the thumbnail icon or the video title of the video. Change Thumbnail: In the video details, scroll down to the Thumbnail section. You can choose from the automatically generated thumbnails or click on the Upload thumbnail button to select a custom image from your device. Save Changes: After selecting the new thumbnail, make sure to click the Save button in the upper right corner to apply your changes.Thumbnail Guidelines
To ensure your thumbnail stands out, follow these guidelines:
Size
The recommended size for a thumbnail is 1280 x 720 pixels.
Format
Use formats such as JPG, GIF, BMP, or PNG.
File Size
Keep the file size under 2MB.
Aspect Ratio
Maintain a 16:9 aspect ratio for the best results.
For those who prefer a quicker update, it typically takes about 10 seconds with a strong internet connection. However, in cases of slower internet, it might take a few minutes due to caching. If you need to access the settings directly, you can find the thumbnail change option in the creator studio classic dashboard under the video’s info and settings tab.
If you encounter any issues or have further questions, feel free to reach out for assistance!