YouTube Aspect Ratio Helper

Calculate perfect dimensions for your videos & thumbnails. Optimize your content presentation with our easy-to-use tools.

Calculate Dimensions

Preview

Aspect Ratio: 16:9

Resolution: 1920×1080

Download Templates

Professional YouTube Thumbnail Pack
Canva Template

Professional Thumbnail Pack

Ready-to-use thumbnail templates with modern designs

  • 1280×720px Resolution
  • Multiple Layouts
  • Easy to Customize
  • Professional Fonts
Edit in Canva
YouTube Channel Art Creator
Canva Template

Channel Art Creator

Professional channel banner templates for all devices

  • 2560×1440px Banner
  • Safe Area Guide
  • Device Preview
  • Auto-resize Options
Edit in Canva
YouTube End Screen Template
Canva Template

End Screen Template

Professional end screen layouts with call-to-action areas

  • 1920×1080px Design
  • Subscribe Button Area
  • Video Placeholders
  • Customizable Elements
Edit in Canva

YouTube Size Guidelines

Video Dimensions

  • Standard HD: 1280×720 (720p)
  • Full HD: 1920×1080 (1080p)
  • 2K: 2560×1440 (1440p)
  • 4K: 3840×2160 (2160p)

Thumbnail Sizes

  • Display: 1280×720 pixels
  • Default: 640×360 pixels
  • Medium: 320×180 pixels
  • Small: 120×90 pixels

Channel Art

  • TV: 2560×1440 pixels
  • Desktop: 2560×423 pixels
  • Tablet: 1855×423 pixels
  • Mobile: 1546×423 pixels

Platform-Specific Guidelines

YouTube Shorts

  • Aspect Ratio: 9:16
  • Resolution: 1080×1920
  • Max Duration: 60 seconds

Regular Videos

  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9
  • Recommended: 1920×1080
  • Maximum: 3840×2160

Community Posts

  • Image: 1200×675
  • Square: 1200×1200
  • Multiple Images: 16:9

End Screens

  • Duration: 5-20 seconds
  • Video: 1920×1080
  • Subscribe: 400×150

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best aspect ratio for YouTube videos?

The standard YouTube aspect ratio is 16:9, which is optimal for most content. However, specific formats like Shorts use 9:16, and some creators use 4:3 for retro-style content or 1:1 for cross-platform compatibility.

Why is my video showing black bars?

Black bars appear when your video's aspect ratio doesn't match YouTube's player. This usually happens when uploading videos in non-standard ratios like 4:3 or vertical videos in horizontal players. Use our calculator to avoid this issue.

What resolution should I use for YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts should be uploaded in 1080×1920 resolution (9:16 aspect ratio). This vertical format is optimized for mobile viewing and provides the best quality across all devices. Minimum resolution is 600×1067.

How do I optimize thumbnails for all devices?

Use 1280×720 pixels (16:9) for thumbnails to ensure they look great everywhere. Keep important elements in the center 1066×600 area to prevent cropping on different devices. Test your thumbnail on both mobile and desktop views.

Can I use vertical videos on YouTube?

Yes! Vertical videos (9:16) work well for YouTube Shorts and mobile viewing. For regular uploads, vertical videos will display with side bars in the standard player. Consider your audience's viewing habits when choosing orientation.

What's the minimum resolution for HD quality?

For HD quality, upload videos at minimum 1280×720 (720p). However, we recommend 1920×1080 (1080p) for best quality. YouTube accepts up to 4K (3840×2160), but consider your audience's internet speed and viewing devices.