YTStudio
Browse Tools
Content Creation

Thumbnail Text Overlay Tool

Add optimized text overlays to thumbnails with font and positioning guidelines

Instant Results
No Sign-Up Required
100% Free Forever

Thumbnail Text Overlay Guide

0 words

Thumbnail Templates

Classic Split

Half face, half text - perfect for most content

Layout: Left 50%: Face | Right 50%: Text + Background

Face + Text Overlay

Full-frame face with text at top or bottom

Layout: Full background image + Text overlay (top or bottom)

Before/After

Show transformation or comparison

Layout: Left: Before | Right: After (with arrow or vs.)

Numbered Listicle

For top 10 lists and countdowns

Layout: Large number + Title text + Supporting image

Reaction Shot

Exaggerated facial expression (works for viral content)

Layout: Close-up face (60%) + Text at top (40%)

Minimalist

Simple text on solid background

Layout: Solid color background + Large centered text

Best Practices by Niche

gaming

Style: Energetic, colorful, action-packed

Color Scheme: Bright neon colors, high saturation

Elements: Game screenshot, Face reaction, Large text (3-4 words)

tutorial

Style: Clean, professional, informative

Color Scheme: Blue, white, black - trustworthy colors

Elements: Before/After split, Step numbers, Result preview

vlog

Style: Personal, expressive, emotion-driven

Color Scheme: Warm tones, natural colors

Elements: Close-up face, Emotion shown, Minimal text

review

Style: Product-focused, clear, detailed

Color Scheme: High contrast, product in focus

Elements: Product image, Rating/score, Key feature highlight

entertainment

Style: Eye-catching, bold, fun

Color Scheme: Red, yellow, cyan - attention-grabbing

Elements: Exaggerated expression, Large bold text, Bright colors

Try More Free Tools

Explore our complete suite of YouTube creator tools to optimize your content and grow faster