Start with 16:9
Use at least 2048 × 1152 pixels. YouTube lists 2560 × 1440 as the recommended size, especially for TV.
YOUTUBE CHANNEL GUIDE 02
YouTube banner size
For a channel banner, YouTube lists a minimum upload size of 2048 × 1152 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio. Keep important text and logos inside the 1235 × 338 pixel safe area at that minimum size.
Source: YouTube Help — Manage your channel branding
Minimum upload2048 × 115216:9 canvas
Safe area at minimum1235 × 338Text and logos
Recommended for TV2560 × 1440YouTube wording
File size6 MB or lessOfficial banner limit
SAFE AREA MAP
Put the message in the center
YouTube says the same banner image is used on computer, mobile, and TV, but it shows differently by device. The official page says some views and devices crop the image; it does not publish fixed numeric crop ranges for each device.
01
Canvas: 2048 × 1152 pixels minimum, 16:9.
02
Safe area: 1235 × 338 pixels at the minimum canvas size.
03
Large-screen option: 2560 × 1440 pixels is recommended especially for TV.
04
Limit: 6 MB or smaller. Banner file format: not stated on the official page.
UPLOAD CHECK
Check these before you publish
Keep the promise centered
Keep text and logos in the 1235 × 338 safe area at the minimum canvas size. Treat the outer area as flexible artwork.
Stay at 6 MB or less
YouTube's official banner page states the size limit. It does not state a banner file format on that page, so this guide leaves format advice unfilled.
SOURCE NOTES
Facts and gaps kept separate
FOUND Minimum canvas, aspect ratio, safe area, TV recommendation, crop warning, and 6 MB limit are stated on YouTube's channel branding help page.
NOT FOUND A device-by-device pixel crop range and a banner file-format list are not stated on that official page.