Pixlr is a popular browser-based photo editor that also offers design templates, including YouTube thumbnails. Pick a thumbnail template, customize it and use Pixlr’s editing tools to cut out subjects, add text and polish your image, all without installing software.
Key features include:
- YouTube thumbnail templates
- Smart resize to adapt designs for other formats
- One-click AI background removal
- Pixlr Editor with layers, masks and advanced tools
- Pixlr Express for fast, simple edits
- Generative AI for images, fills and expansions
- Web, desktop and mobile apps
Pixlr’s layer-based editor gives more control than many template tools, which is useful for creators who like to fine-tune their thumbnails.
Pixlr has a free plan with ads and limited AI use. Paid plans include monthly AI credits: Plus costs about $1.99 per month billed annually ($2.49 monthly) with 80 credits and no ads, Premium about $7.99 per month billed annually ($9.99 monthly) with 1,000 credits and the full template and asset library, and Ultra from about $19.99 per month billed annually.
The free plan has ads and fewer templates than Canva. For free and low-cost thumbnail edits, though, Pixlr is great value.
