You start by typing in a short description of your video—what it’s about, the topic, and any hook or highlight you want to feature. You can also specify the tone (e.g., bold, straightforward, playful) to match your video style.

The tool then generates a few thumbnail text options that are:

• Short enough to fit well on a thumbnail
• Easy to read quickly
• Written to spark curiosity and invite clicks

You can use the suggestions directly or tweak them to better fit your design or branding.

Thumbnails are one of the first things people see in search results, recommendations, and home feeds. Good thumbnail text can help your video stand out—even if your channel is small or new.

Here’s what effective thumbnail text can do:

• Stop the scroll: A clear message can grab attention faster than visuals alone.
• Clarify your video topic: If your title is long, your thumbnail text can help simplify the hook.
• Set expectations: Viewers know what they’re getting before clicking.
• Boost CTR (Click-Through Rate): Better thumbnails = more clicks.

For more on improving visibility across search and browse, you might also find this guide on search visibility helpful.

Yes. Like all Embarque tools, it’s completely free—no sign-up required, no limits on how often you can use it. Whether you're working on your first video or batch-creating thumbnails for your entire content calendar, this tool is always available.

‍

Nope. The tool is web-based and works right in your browser. No installations or extensions needed. Just go to the tool page, enter your video description, and get your text ideas instantly. It works on desktop and mobile.

‍