How to download preview (thumbnail) of YouTube video
A detailed guide to downloading YouTube video covers in HD quality. All URL formats, best practices for SMM and content marketing.
What is YouTube Thumbnail?
YouTube Thumbnail is a preview image that appears in search results and on the video page before it plays. This is the first thing the user sees.
Why download previews?
- SMM and marketing - reuse with permission of the author
- Design inspiration - analysis of successful competitors' covers
- Presentations - illustrations for reports
- Analytics — saving examples of A/B tested previews
YouTube quality formats
| URL parameter | Resolution | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| --- | --- | --- |
| `maxresdefault.jpg` | 1280x720 | Maximum HD |
| `sddefault.jpg` | 640x480 | Standard |
| `hqdefault.jpg` | 480×360 | High |
| `mqdefault.jpg` | 320x180 | Average |
| `0.jpg` | 480×360 | Standard |
Direct link to preview
YouTube previews are available via a public URL without an API:
https://img.youtube.com/vi/{VIDEO_ID}/maxresdefault.jpg Where {VIDEO_ID} is the 11-character video ID from the URL.
⚠️ Copyright
Thumbnail is the creative work of the author. Use without permission may violate copyright. Always check the license or get permission from the copyright holder.
Download YouTube preview for free - supports all URL formats, 5 quality sizes.