YouTube Thumbnail Safe Zone Checker

Why Your Thumbnail CTR is Low

You spent hours designing the perfect thumbnail. But if your main text is covered by the video timestamp, viewers can't read your hook. If they can't read it, they don't click.

This automated safe zone checker helps you visualize the YouTube interface layers (timestamps, watch later buttons, progress bars) before you upload.

The "Death Zones" of YouTube Thumbnails

• Bottom Right Corner: YouTube places a black timestamp box here. Never put text or faces here.
• Top Right Corner: On desktop hover, "Watch Later" buttons slide down here. Keep logos out of this corner.
• Bottom Edge: The red "watched" progress bar runs along the bottom for returning viewers. Leave padding.

Best Practices for High CTR

• Central Focus: The center is always safe on every device (TV, Mobile, Desktop).
• Face on Left: Since the timestamp is on the right, reaction faces work best on the left.
• High Contrast: Ensure your text is readable even at small sizes (mobile view).

Frequently Asked Questions