YouTube Ad Specs & Video Sizes (2026): Free Checker

Quick answer

YouTube ad eligibility depends on both canvas and duration. A six-second bumper, a non-skippable spot, and a vertical Shorts ad solve different jobs, even when they come from the same campaign idea.

YouTube Ads ad sizes and formats

The requirements below power the checker above. A result marked Ready means the file matches the dimensions, ratio, duration, format, and file-size rules represented in this guide.

How to use the checker

1. Choose the closest preset, or enter the exported file’s width and height.
2. Select image or video, then add its format, file size, and duration.
3. Review each placement. Ready assets can move to campaign setup; flagged assets need the listed change.
4. Copy the results into a creative brief so designers know which variants are still missing.

The checker evaluates the file, not the message inside it. Keep logos, captions, and calls to action away from interface overlays, and preview the final ad inside the platform before publishing.

Common upload errors to avoid

• Right shape, low resolution: an aspect ratio can match while the pixel dimensions remain too small.
• One crop for every placement: horizontal, square, portrait, and full-screen inventory need different compositions.
• Duration checked too late: decide the destination before editing the final cut.
• Compressed with the wrong format: export in a format accepted by the exact placement, then check the resulting file size.
• Safe zones ignored: interface elements can cover text even when the upload itself passes validation.

Frequently asked questions