How to Use the Three Thumbnail Test Features on YouTube
Thumbnails play a critical role in the success of any YouTube video. They are the first thing viewers notice when deciding whether to click on content. So much so that you can make an amazing video but no one will ever see it if you don't create the perfect thumbnail! So to ensure that you’re using the most effective thumbnail, YouTube offers testing features that help creators optimize their visuals for maximum engagement. In this article, we’ll explore how to use three thumbnail test methods to boost your click-through rates and grow your channel.
Why Test Thumbnails on YouTube?
Annoying thumbnails and slightly less so titles are the make-or-break aspects of every single YouTube video. If you don't get your thumbnail and title right you can have the best video in the world and no one will watch it. It's something all of us struggle with! But! YouTube has finally added a decent new feature that allows you to A/B test multiple thumbnails to give yourself a fighting chance to be successful!
Understanding Thumbnail A/B Testing (Super Important)
A/B testing, also known as split testing, is a method used to compare two or more versions of a creative element, in this case, YouTube thumbnails to determine which performs better. During the test, different thumbnail versions are shown to segments of your audience, and performance metrics such as click-through rate (CTR) and watch time are monitored. The goal is to identify the thumbnail that attracts the most viewers and keeps them engaged.
YouTube’s Built-In Thumbnail Experimentation (Beta Feature)
Pros:
- Automated testing with reliable data collection.
- Less manual work compared to traditional methods.
- You can see the data early and react fast!
Cons:
- None that we have managed to uncover so far.
How to Use the Three Thumbnail Test Features on YouTube
In order to use the Thumbnail Test and Compare Feature on YouTube you'll need to do the following.
- Sign into your your YouTube channel,
- Now either upload a new video or go to Studio > Content > (pick a video) > Click Edit.
- This will take you to the standard video upload screen where you usually enter all of your video information.
- Under the thumbnail section click the 3 dots then select Test and Compare and upload 3 different thumbnails and accept the change.
Once you have set your thumbnails, YouTube will A/B test them for 2 weeks or until there is conclusive data for each. To view this data you can go back to the same location and click Review Test and Compare. If a thumbnail ends up being a clear winner early on YouTube will automatically set that thumbnail as the video's thumbnail right away.
For example, if you have 3 different thumbnails and 1 has a 70% higher click rate in the first 1000 views YouTube will set it as default before waiting the entire 2 weeks. Sometimes this can happen in the first few hours of a video release.
YouTube Thumbnail Tips for Test and Compare
Now that Youtube allows you to upload 3 thumbnails at a time to A/B test make sure that you use this to your advantage. Make 3 completely different thumbnails that resonate with your audience. Make a safe thumbnail that you know will work well with your audience, then use the other 2 options to experiment with things. You'll be surprised how often really random and weird ideas end up being the most successful thumbnails.