Wave.video

Online Thumbnail Maker: Create a Video Thumbnail in Minutes

A catchy thumbnail is the most effective way to get more clicks and engagement for your videos. Learn how to easily make custom video covers with Wave.video free thumbnail creator.

Create video thumbnails like these with Wave.video

Click on any video template to customize it for your business and use case.

How to Make a Video Thumbnail

  • Step 1. Upload or create a video.

    Step 1. Upload or create a video.

    Upload your video, create a new one with hundreds of professionally designed video templates, or start from scratch. You can add text messages, apply eye-catchy layouts, beautify your video with GIFs and stickers that will also be present on your thumbnail image.

  • Step 2. Choose a thumbnail.

    Step 2. Choose a thumbnail.

    On the timeline, move the playhead to select a frame that you’d like to export as a static image and then use as a video thumbnail.

  • Step 3. Export your video thumbnail.

    Step 3. Export your video thumbnail.

    Hit the “Publish” button and choose saving the current frame as an image. You can save any frame of your video in the .jpeg, .png, or .gif (static) format. Generate the video thumbnail and download it to your computer.

Why Your Video Needs
a Great Thumbnail

Maximize video views
Maximize video views

Thumbnail is an essential part of any video because it grasps attention and entices your audience to click through to your video.

Learn more →
Provide more context
Provide more context

A good thumbnail reflects your video’s subject and helps viewers decide if your video is relevant to their interests and goals.

Learn more →
Ensure brand consistency
Ensure brand consistency

Every business with a YouTube or Instagram page knows how important thumbnails are in sustaining the visual style and making their feed look amazing.

Check out Wave.video on Instagram →

YouTube Thumbnail Design Tips for Catching Attention

  • The ingredients of a great YouTube thumbnail
    The ingredients of a great YouTube thumbnail

    An eye catching YouTube video thumbnail consists of these graphic design elements: images or graphics, text, and a thumbnail background.

  • YouTube thumbnail size
    YouTube thumbnail size

    Make sure that your thumbnail has a resolution of 1280 by 720 pixels and looks good even when expanded to full screen. Max file size is 2MB.

  • Choose a thumbnail background wisely
    Choose a thumbnail background wisely

    Make sure to use a background that doesn’t distract the viewer’s attention from text and graphics and works well with other videos on your YouTube channel.

  • Don’t use too much text
    Don’t use too much text

    Be concise. Tell your audience what the video is about but don’t overwhelm them with too many words. This will help your video reach more viewers and keep their attention longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a video thumbnail?
A thumbnail is a static snapshot of your video that viewers see on websites and social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Informative and attractive thumbnails help the audience get an idea of what the video will be about and boost views.
Can I create a YouTube thumbnail with Wave.video?
Yes, Wave.video’s online YouTube thumbnail maker functionality allows you to create catchy thumbnails for YouTube. Upload your video, and customize it with text, graphics and stickers using a simple drag and drop interface.
What is the best YouTube thumbnail size?
A perfect YouTube thumbnail has a resolution of 1280 pixels by 720 pixels and keeps within the 2MB limit. This size uses the 16:9 aspect ratio, which is one of the most used thumbnail dimensions in the YouTube player.
What is the maximum amount of text to include on a thumbnail?
There are no limits to how much text you can add as long as it is easy to read and conveys your video’s idea. However, studies show that social media posts with thumbnails with less than 20% text perform best.