YouTube is rolling out the Thumbnail Test & Compare feature to all creators with access to advanced features over the coming weeks. This tool allows creators to upload up to three different video thumbnails to test with viewers, helping to determine the most effective thumbnail based on watch time share.
Access and Eligibility
- Availability: The feature is being gradually rolled out. Creators with advanced features enabled will see a "Test & compare" option in YouTube Studio on desktop.
- Eligibility: Ensure your account is eligible for advanced features by checking the "Feature eligibility" section in your channel settings.
- Supported Content: The feature is available for public long-form videos, live stream archives, and podcast episodes. It is not available for videos set as 'Made for Kids', videos for mature audiences, or private videos.
How It Works
- Testing Process: Upload up to three thumbnails. YouTube will display these thumbnails evenly to viewers and select a winner based on which generates the most watch time share.
- Duration: It may take a few days to two weeks to get finalized results. Factors like the number of impressions and differences between thumbnails affect the duration.
- Results:
- Winner: Clearly outperforms others based on watch time share.
- Preferred: Likely outperforms others but with less statistical certainty.
- None: No clear winner; the first thumbnail is selected.
- Manual Selection: Creators can manually select any thumbnail regardless of test results.
FAQs and Tips
- No "Winner" Result: If no clear winner is identified, ensure significant differences between thumbnail options and continue testing.
- Watch Time Share: The feature optimizes for watch time share to maximize viewer engagement. Other metrics like CTR may be considered in the future.
- Older Videos: Tests can be run on previously uploaded videos, but older videos may generate fewer impressions, making conclusive results harder to achieve.
Additional Information
- Platform: Currently available only on YouTube Studio on desktop; mobile support is being explored.
- Advanced Features: More details on unlocking advanced features can be found in YouTube's Help Center.
For a detailed walkthrough, creators can refer to the provided video guide.
