Get More Clicks on YouTube Thumbnails

Article last updated on:
May 30, 2024

We’ll help you improve that in this guide.

How to Get More Clicks on YouTube Thumbnail

StepAction
Design Eye-CatchingUse high-quality images, bold colors, and readable text.
Effective TextKeep text short and relevant, highlight key points.
BrandingInclude a logo, use consistent colors and fonts.
Use TemplatesEnsure consistency and efficiency.
A/B TestingExperiment with different thumbnails, analyze results.
Design ToolsUtilize tools like Canva, Adobe Spark, Photoshop.
Stay RelevantUpdate for trends and timely content.

1. Make it catchy

Example of YouTube Thumbnail with complementary colors
  • Use High-Quality Images: Ensure your thumbnail is clear and high resolution.
  • Bold Colors: Bright, contrasting colors grab attention.
  • Readable Text: Include concise, bold text to highlight key points.
  • Faces and Emotions: Thumbnails with expressive faces often attract more clicks.
  • Brand Consistency: Use a consistent style or theme to build recognition.

2. Use text

I can’t stress this enough: add text to your thumbnails!

YouTube Thumbnail with Text Overaly - "2023, A Look Back" from Vox
  • Keep It Short: Use 3-5 words.
  • Make It Relevant: Ensure the text adds value and accurately represents the video content.
  • Highlight Key Points: Use keywords or phrases that spark curiosity.

3. Add branding

Branding on YouTube Thumbnails

4. Use a template

Editing a YouTube Thumbnail
  • Consistency: Use thumbnail templates to maintain a consistent look.
  • Efficiency: Templates speed up the creation process.

5. A/B Test

Use Thumbnail Test to A/B test your videos.

Cover image - YouTube AB Testing Tool For Gaming
  • Experiment: Test different thumbnails to see which performs better.
  • Analyze Results: Use Thumbnail Test’s analytics to track click-through rates (CTR).

6. Design Tools

Have a look at the top 10 YouTube thumbnail makers.

Screenshot from Fotor's YouTube Thumbnail Making Tool - Landing Page
  • Canva, Adobe Spark: These tools offer easy-to-use templates and design elements.
  • Photoshop: For more advanced customization.

7. Keep up with the trend

Safari mock-up screenshot of Google Trends, with an arrow pointing towards the trends.google.com URL
  • Timely Content: Align thumbnails with current trends and events.
  • Regular Updates: Refresh older thumbnails to improve their appeal.

FAQs: Clicks x Thumbnails

1. How do I get more views on my thumbnail?

The answer is: Create eye-catching thumbnails with high-quality images, bold colors, and clear text that accurately represent your content.

Regularly test different designs and monitor performance to optimize for higher click-through rates.

2. How do you attract viewers with thumbnails?

To attract viewers with thumbnails, use high-quality images, bold colors, and expressive faces to grab attention.

Add short, readable text that highlights key points + sparks curiosity.

3. How do I make my thumbnail pop?

To make your thumbnail pop, use bright, contrasting colors and clear, bold text. Incorporate high-quality images and expressive faces to capture attention.


Thank you for reading this,
Thumbnail Test

About the author

David is the head of the editing team at ThumbnailTest. With his help, the editorial team is able to provide you with the best free guides related to YouTube thumbnails and A/B testing.