YouTube Thumbnail Downloader
Download high-quality YouTube thumbnails instantly – HD, Full HD, 4K. Works for videos & Shorts. Free, no signup required.
Supports YouTube videos, Shorts, embed links, and youtu.be URLs.
Available Thumbnails
How YouTube Thumbnail Downloading Works – Simple & Transparent
No magic or API keys needed. YouTube hosts thumbnails publicly using a predictable URL pattern:
- Extract the Video ID from your URL (the 11-character code after
"v=" or in youtu.be
links).
Example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQw4w9WgXcQ → ID: dQw4w9WgXcQ - Generate direct links by appending the ID to YouTube's thumbnail base:
https://img.youtube.com/vi/[VIDEO_ID]/[SIZE].jpg - Common sizes:
• default.jpg → 120x90 (low quality)
• mqdefault.jpg → 320x180
• hqdefault.jpg → 480x360
• sddefault.jpg → 640x480
• maxresdefault.jpg → Up to 1920x1080 or higher (best, if available)
Our tool does this instantly and shows previews with direct download links. Max resolution is only available if the creator uploaded a custom high-res thumbnail.
YouTube Thumbnail Sizes & Resolutions
| File Name | Resolution | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| default.jpg | 120 × 90 | Very small previews |
| mqdefault.jpg | 320 × 180 | Medium quality |
| hqdefault.jpg | 480 × 360 | High quality default |
| sddefault.jpg | 640 × 480 | Standard definition |
| maxresdefault.jpg | 1280 × 720+ (up to 4K) | Highest available – recommended! |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does a YouTube thumbnail downloader work?
By extracting the video ID and linking to YouTube's public thumbnail servers.
Is it legal to download thumbnails?
Yes for personal use/inspiration. Respect copyrights for commercial reuse.
What sizes are available?
From 120x90 up to maxres (often 1280x720 or higher).
Does it work for Shorts?
Absolutely – same system as regular videos.
Why is maxres not always available?
Only if a custom high-res thumbnail was uploaded.