YouTube Live Thumbnail Downloader

Grab the thumbnail from a YouTube live stream or its replay. Paste the link and download the cover image in the best available size.

Live Stream Thumbnails Explained

Live streams use a youtube.com/live/VIDEO_ID link and, like every video, have thumbnail files at public URLs. Once the stream has a set cover image, you can download it here just like any recorded video.

Before, During, and After a Stream

A scheduled or live stream shows whatever thumbnail the creator set. After the stream ends and becomes a replay (a normal video), the same thumbnail remains available. If a custom HD thumbnail has not been set yet, the largest available size will be lower.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I download a live stream's thumbnail?

Yes. Paste the youtube.com/live/VIDEO_ID link and the tool retrieves the available thumbnail sizes.

Does it work after the stream ends?

Yes. Once a stream becomes a replay it behaves like a normal video, and its thumbnail stays downloadable.

Why is only a small size available?

If the creator has not uploaded a custom HD thumbnail, YouTube may only have lower-resolution auto-generated images.

YouTube Live Thumbnail Downloader