Ask any YouTuber and they will tell you that generating significant views and subscribers isn't easy. But with the right strategy and tools, any video creator can build an engaged subscriber base when they understand what those subscribers want to watch.

Appealing to an audience to watch content you are passionate about making is just the first step, you need to know how to reach them and get your videos discovered. Our guides to how to guide more views on YouTube will give you the best tips to succeed on the platform.

Getting Views

How To Get More Views on YouTube

Getting thousands or even millions of YouTube subscribers is a dream for most creators. In the articles below, we'll show you how to turn casual viewers into long-term fans. 

Subscribers

YouTube Subscribers

Do you want to make money on YouTube? Millions of creators are earning a very good living from monetizing the platform and uploading content that drives huge views and engagements. Whether that YouTube income is from advertising revenue, merchandise sales, or brand deals, or subscriptions, we keep you updated with best practices and ideas.

Monetization

How To Make Money on YouTube

Want to see how your channel is performing? Read these YouTube analytics articles to discover what's working and what isn't. You'll learn how to identify which videos have the most Watch Time, clicks, audience retention, revenue, and more.

Analytics

YouTube Analytics

Watch Time is arguably THE most important metric on YouTube right now, and creators won’t be able to monetize their content without 4000 hours of it. But what is it and how can creators increase the amount of Watch Time their videos attract? We keep you updated on the best practices around Watch Time, and how you can increase how much your video content generates.

Watch Time

YouTube Watch Time

YouTube Shorts content is set to explode! 

All the latest tips, tricks, and rock-solid advice you need for this new feature.

YouTube Shorts

Do you know how to do keyword research so you understand what videos people are actually searching for on YouTube? Do you know how to create a custom YouTube thumbnail? Do you know how to create a Playlist on YouTube?

vidIQ has a ton of tips that will help every creator maximise their video content. We publish content every week to keep you up to date with all the best practices.

Tips & Tricks

YouTube Tips & Tricks

At vidIQ we have incredible insights into what viewers are searching for on YouTube. Not only can we confirm the top keywords being searched for, we can also show you how you can leverage that interest to create content around trending topics and tentpole events. That's going to give you a clear edge over other creators!

Insights

YouTube Insights

Your In-Depth Guide to Building a Successful YouTube Channel

Let’s stop pretending subscriber count tells the whole story about your channel. For years, creators have relied on subs as the ultimate badge of success. But there's always more than meets the eye. Factors like watch time, retention, and several others have significant effect on your overall growth.

So, YouTube just rolled out a game-changing update that flips the script—introducing a new metric called 

, and with it, a better way to understand who’s really watching your content.

In the video above, Rob explains how this update might be more important than you think. Here, we'll discuss why it is so.

 How Many Videos Does It Take to Get 1,000 Subscribers on YouTube?

, and here’s what it actually measures:

 who watched your content in the past 28 days

This isn’t just a vanity stat. It shows your 

—not how many people hit “subscribe” at some point in the past, but how many are actively engaging with your channel now.

You can also view audience activity by watch behavior. New viewers are the people on your channel for the first time, casual viewers who have watched some time in the last 12 months, and regular viewers ho have watched your content for 6 months in the last year.

, you’re chasing viral hits with little retention. If it’s 

, your content might be too niche to grow.

Here's a reality check: most views don’t come from subscribers.

 subscribed. That might sound bad at first glance, but it’s not. It means your content is being discovered—people are watching it because it’s good, not because they felt like being loyal.

A non-subscriber might binge five videos in a row.

Subscriber count doesn’t equal engagement.

YouTube quietly removed the old “New vs Returning Viewers” graph, and honestly? It won’t be missed. The new audience insights give creators more context, more clarity, and more control over strategy.

How to Turn Silent Viewers into YouTube Subscribers

Plan Smarter: Match Content to Viewer Types

YouTube now goes even further by showing what kind of videos each group prefers:

So how do you turn new eyeballs into a loyal audience?

 = Shorts, trends, virality
→ Pulls in new and casual viewers.

 = Deep dives, stories, behind-the-scenes
→ Builds loyalty and turns casuals into regulars.

How to Get Subscriber Feedback from a YouTube Analytics Deep Dive

Don’t just earn a view—earn a second view. That’s how sustainable YouTube growth works in 2025. If you’ve been obsessing over subscriber numbers, it’s time to shift your focus. This update isn’t just a metric change—it’s a mindset shift. 

Creator holding a board that says "SUBSCRIBE"

Subscriber count is a relic. Monthly Audience is the real KPI.

Creators who adapt to this update will build smarter, more loyal communities. They’ll stop measuring vanity and start measuring value.

So if you haven’t explored your Monthly Audience data yet, do it now. See who’s really watching, what they’re watching, and how you can keep them coming back for more.

In the end, the game isn’t about getting someone to hit “Subscribe.”

If you’ve been obsessing over subscriber numbers, it’s time to shift your focus. YouTube’s new Monthly Audience metric shows real reach—why subs matter less and how to grow loyal, engaged viewers.

What is the YouTube Monthly Audience Metric?

This post was originally written Dec 08, 2023 and has been updated with newer information.

Choosing the right thumbnail can make or break your video’s success, which is why YouTube offers a built-in thumbnail test that lets creators compare designs using real viewer behavior.

With YouTube’s thumbnail tester, you can upload multiple thumbnails for the same video and let YouTube automatically figure out which one performs best. It’s called 

, and it’s one of the most effective tools for optimizing click-through rates and watch time.

The watch time share for three thumbnails being tested on YouTube

YouTube’s Test & Compare tool allows creators to upload up to 3 thumbnails per video and run a native A/B test inside YouTube Studio.

Each thumbnail is shown to a portion of your audience, and YouTube tracks which one performs best based on a metric called watch time share. After the test concludes, the highest-performing thumbnail is applied automatically.


Why Upload Multiple Thumbnails on YouTube?

Understand what actually resonates with your audience

The best thumbnails don’t just look good, they drive views and watch time. That’s what this tool helps creators uncover.

YouTube’s built-in thumbnail tester makes it easy to run a thumbnail test directly inside YouTube Studio.

Upload your video as usual in YouTube Studio.

When you get to the thumbnail step, choose the 

YouTube will automatically rotate the thumbnails to different viewer groups.

After collecting enough data, the platform will set the winning thumbnail for you.

Note: This tool works for long-form videos, completed livestreams, and podcasts. Some content types, such as made-for-kids videos, livestreams, or age-restricted uploads, are not eligible for testing.

Test and compare menu option when uploading a thumbnail

Does ‘Test and Compare’ Work for all Content Types?

For now, you can test and compare thumbnails on long-form videos, completed 

. Shorts and certain types of content, like those aimed at kids or mature audiences, are excluded from using this tool.

Measuring Performance of YouTube Thumbnail Testing

”, as its benchmark of choice. That’s not to be confused with average view duration, which is the average amount of time viewers spend watching a video.

From a testing perspective, the share of watch time each thumbnail earns is what YouTube describes as watch time share. For example, if you test and compare two thumbnails, thumbnail A might accumulate 60% of the watch time, while thumbnail B collects 40%. In this case, thumbnail A is the winner and most likely to boost your views.

But why is YouTube using watch time to test thumbnail performance instead of clicks? After all, the 

 measures how attractive a video is on search pages and other display areas.

It turns out that click appeal isn’t enough. In the YouTube Studio, the platform explains why watch time is a better predictor of satisfaction than clicks, and how thumbnails reinforce that.

Screenshot of a tool tip in the YouTube studio explaining what watch time share is

“Great thumbnails don’t just get viewers to click,” YouTube states. “They also help viewers understand what the video is about, so that they can make informed decisions about what to watch.”

Real-World Example of YouTube A/B Thumbnail Testing

We ran a YouTube thumbnail A/B testing experiment for 

this video about new AI developments on YouTube.

three vastly different youtube thumbnails

One version, a simple image of an AI robot, gradually pulled ahead.

After eliminating the lowest performer and continuing the test, the robot thumbnail earned a 59.7% share of total watch time.

After switching to the top performer permanently, the video earned nearly 3x the usual views.

One image beats another in a thumbnail test

Testing works, especially when you focus on designs that align with the video’s emotion, topic, and audience expectations.

Views going up on a line graph for a video that underwent a thumbnail test

New to A/B Thumbnail Testing? A Word of Advice

YouTube’s thumbnail tester is a major step up when you want to optimize your video’s appeal. At the same time, not everyone has the time or resources to create two or three thumbnails per video. If that’s your situation, do small tests instead of large, time-consuming experiments. Make tiny design shifts, like testing different fonts, colors, or simple backgrounds. Even those small tweaks can make a difference in your viewer’s eyes.

This video has more details and advice, so give it a quick watch to cement your knowledge.

But even without a thumbnail test, are you designing images your viewers can’t resist? 

Here are 12 thumbnail styles that people love on YouTube!

Quick Tips for Using YouTube’s Thumbnail Tester

You don’t have to design three completely different thumbnails every time. Try testing small variations:

These micro-changes can reveal valuable insights during your thumbnail tests and save time in your creative process.

 helps you create bold, clickable designs in minutes, no graphic design experience required.

And if you need inspiration, check out these 

 that consistently grab attention and drive watch time.

An image with the words "this is thumbnail A"

Man with serious expression and text "This is YouTube thumbnail A" on black background.

Learn how to use YouTube’s thumbnail A/B testing to upload multiple designs, compare their performance, and grow your views with data-backed decisions.

How to Use the YouTube Thumbnail Tester to Boost Views

This post was originally written May 10, 2023 and has been updated with newer information.

You can’t have a thriving YouTube channel without 

. Most creators know this, so they work extra hard to make images that encourage more video clicks.

But if you’re trying to stay consistent on YouTube, you also need speed.

So how do you make YouTube thumbnails fast and easy?

Let’s face it, there’s no faster way to make thumbnails than working with AI tools.

 you can generate a full YouTube thumbnail in seconds, just by entering a simple prompt. Want something bold, dramatic, clean, or colorful? Describe the look you're going for, and AI will take care of the layout, colors, imagery, and text.

From there, all you have to do is tweak it. Adjust a word. Swap a color. Change a pose.

AI is a game-changer for speed, but for creators who still prefer full control, these six strategies will help you create thumbnails faster.

If your thumbnails include your face, try this shortcut: batch a set of emotional headshots in one sitting. Capture a variety of expressions and save them in a folder for future use.

This gives you an instant photo library to work with, so you’re never scrambling for the right facial expression.


For example, YouTuber-in-residence Rob Wilson uses the same 

 to create thumbnails like this for the vidIQ channel:

Youtube Thumbnail with the creator looking confused

2. Build a Go-To Library of Thumbnail Backgrounds

Creating a few background styles is another way to make YouTube thumbnails faster. After all, who wants to spend hours designing a thumbnail because they’re always starting from scratch? 

Instead, build a thumbnail background library that you can reuse and remix across multiple videos.

Start with 5–10 high-quality visuals that reflect your niche or style:

Color gradients for tutorials or educational content

Lifestyle backdrops for vlogs or interviews

Bold, minimal textures for gaming or challenge videos

You can source these from royalty-free sites like 

, or even snap your own photos for a unique touch. If you use design tools like 

, save your favorite backgrounds as brand assets to access them instantly.

3. Pose for a Thumbnail While You’re Filming

, you may need images that are more relaxed and down-to-Earth. Some creators pull this off by making the thumbnail for their video while filming that content.

For this time-saving hack, you’ll keep the camera rolling but stop to pose for a thumbnail in the middle of your video. It’s up to you whether you keep this "segment" in your final upload. Sometimes it’s endearing and lets people know you have a lighthearted personality on YouTube!

While editing the video, take a screenshot of your “posing” clip. Send it to Canva or Photoshop, where you can spice up the image with text, emojis, and other visual elements. 

For example, here’s how you could transform a selfie into a YouTube thumbnail.

Of all the methods out there, this is probably the fastest. It’s typically used by people who shoot vlogs, pranks, challenges, and storytime content.

4. Use High-Performing Thumbnail  Templates

Templates save time. But smart creators don’t just recycle, they refine.

Not just any template will do. Identify which thumbnails on your channel drive the most clicks, then build templates based on 

. Whether it’s the color scheme, text layout, or facial expression, study what’s working and systematize it.

More than likely, these images are high-quality, attention-grabbing, and have consistent branding.

Sometimes, it’s better to make a bunch of thumbnails simultaneously instead of one at a time. That’s because recording a video, editing the footage, and making a thumbnail within the same day is tiring. You'll be happier (and more energetic) when that list becomes a bit shorter!

. Create multiple designs at once, especially if you’re planning a content sprint. It’s more efficient, and lets you enter a design mindset instead of constantly shifting gears.

Lastly, the fastest way to make thumbnails is to never, ever make them. If you're thinking, 

 let us explain.

If someone can do a task faster than you (and you have a little cash to spend), why not outsource that job to an expert? In the case of YouTube, you could hire a thumbnail designer to make images that take your channel to the next level.

Fiver and Upwork are good places to look for these creatives. Many thumbnail designers work on a freelance or contractual basis, so you’ll find strong candidates on those sites. Another place to look is 

, a website with plenty of thumbnail designers for hire.

These tips apply to traditional YouTube videos, but Shorts need thumbnails too — especially if you want more control over how they appear on your channel. Need help? 

Here’s our full guide to custom Shorts thumbnails.

Whether you're using AI to generate a full thumbnail or applying time-saving tricks like batching and templates, the goal is the same: spend less time designing and more time creating.

Woman relaxing at desk in modern office with laptop and books, enjoying break

YouTube thumbnails are a big part of any channel, but sometimes they take forever to make. Design them faster and easier with these hacks!

6 Ways to Make YouTube Thumbnails in Record Time

This post was originally written Apr 04, 2023 and has been updated with newer information.

“What type of YouTube thumbnails should I make for my channel?”

That’s a question many creators ask, especially when thinking of ways to brand their content and stand out on YouTube. It’s a question that will 

90% of the top videos have custom thumbnails

So how do you build a thumbnail style that grabs attention 

12 Types of YouTube Thumbnails People Love to Click On

In this guide, you'll learn how to build a thumbnail style that fits your channel, from defining your content goals to designing vibrant, clickable images.

Match Your Thumbnail Style to Your Content Goals

Your content type plays a massive role in building the right thumbnail strategy. So before jumping into design tools, think deeply about your content goals. 

Do I want to entertain, educate, or evoke emotion?

Each path leads to a different design approach.

 often benefit from warm, people-focused thumbnails that reflect personality and mood.

 usually perform best with clear visuals and focused text.

 tend to pop with bright colors, bold fonts, and expressive faces.

Here’s a little test: If you can say something like, “My channel is about bird watching, and my goal is to educate viewers on how to get started,” you’re ready for the next step.

Look to Competitors for YouTube Thumbnail Inspiration

Once you’ve defined your content’s purpose, it’s time to gather visual cues. One of the best ways to get YouTube thumbnail inspiration is by studying successful creators in your niche.

How to Find Your Biggest Competitors on YouTube

Start by identifying 5–10 channels that:

Then take notes on their thumbnail patterns

Now you have a list of visual elements to choose from. This will give you a rough idea of what your thumbnails 

Here's where many creators get stuck, trying to make thumbnails that “look good” instead of thumbnails that 

your viewers’ emotions and expectations

 in mind. Think about what excites them visually. What makes them pause the scroll?

Would a frame from the video work better than a custom design?

Is bold, clean text necessary, or does it distract?

Should I include my face, or keep it more object-focused?

Should I create bold, colorful designs or something simpler?

Keep in mind, You’re not trying to make the “best” thumbnail, you’re trying to make the 

Test Different Thumbnails and  Analyze the Results

By now, you likely have a few thumbnail ideas. The next step is to test them  and let the data speak.

 can help you create multiple versions quickly. Then, take advantage of 

YouTube’s built-in A/B thumbnail testing

. Are certain designs attracting a more engaged audience?

. Do your thumbnails set accurate expectations for what’s inside?

Over time, you’ll start to see patterns, and that’s when your true thumbnail style starts to emerge.


YouTube Thumbnail Inspiration from 3 Successful Creators

If you’re looking for more YouTube thumbnail inspiration, the creators below offer great examples of how to match design with content. Each one has developed a consistent style that fits their niche and earns clicks.

Minimalistic, people-focused, calm, joyful

Minimalistic thumbnail styles on ZoeSuggs YouTube channel

Zoe’s thumbnails are a great example of vlog thumbnail ideas that feel warm and inviting.

A simple, calming design matches the vibe of her down-to-earth vlogs.

Looking for YouTube thumbnail inspiration?  Learn how to build a thumbnail style that matches your content and makes your channel stand out.

Your In-Depth Guide to Building a Successful YouTube Channel

What is the YouTube Monthly Audience Metric?

How to Use the YouTube Thumbnail Tester to Boost Views

What is the YouTube Monthly Audience Metric?

6 Ways to Make YouTube Thumbnails in Record Time

Find the Best YouTube Thumbnail Styles for Your Channel

Why You Should Make YouTube Thumbnails Before You Record

How to Improve Your YouTube CTR with Better Thumbnails

How to See Your Subscribers on YouTube

How Often to Post on YouTube? We Analyzed 5 Million Channels to Find Out

13 Ways to Get 1,000 YouTube Subscribers, Fast and Free

How to Get 500 Subscribers on YouTube & Unlock Fan Funding

YouTube Launches New Title A/B Testing Tool — Here’s What You Need to Know

How to Enable Custom Thumbnails On YouTube