RubanTools

Thumbnail Text Checker

Check if your thumbnail text is readable at small sizes. Get instant feedback on word count, contrast and thumbnail best practices.

Thumbnail Settings
Each line = one text block on the thumbnail
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Live Thumbnail Preview

Full size (1280×720 scaled)

Mobile card (how most viewers see it)

Analysis

Enter your thumbnail text to see the analysis.

Thumbnail Text FAQ

Ideal YouTube thumbnails use 2–5 words. At mobile size, more than 5–6 words become unreadable. Each word should pack a punch - a number, emotion, or power word that complements the image.

In a 1280×720 thumbnail, use at least 80–100pt for key text. At thumbnail preview size (~320×180), text smaller than 40pt in the full image often becomes unreadable on mobile.

A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 ensures readability. White on dark or bright yellow on dark blue are safe combinations. Avoid light text on light backgrounds.

Not always - but 2–5 bold words typically increase CTR, especially for tutorials, list videos and reaction content. Text should amplify the image's story, not duplicate the title. Facial expressions + bold text is the most effective formula.