What is the best aspect ratio for YouTube Ads?

The best aspect ratio for YouTube Ads depends on the type of ad format you are using, but here are the recommended aspect ratios for the most common ad formats:

1. Skippable In-Stream Ads (Pre-roll, Mid-roll, and Post-roll):
Recommended Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (landscape)

Resolution: The ideal resolution is 1920x1080 pixels (Full HD), but you can also use 1280x720 pixels (HD).

Why this works: The 16:9 aspect ratio is the most commonly used format for YouTube and provides the best viewing experience across various devices (desktop, mobile, tablet, TV). It ensures your video fits well on both standard and wide screens.

2. Non-Skippable In-Stream Ads:
Recommended Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (landscape)

Resolution: 1920x1080 pixels (Full HD) or 1280x720 pixels (HD).

Why this works: Similar to skippable in-stream ads, these ads are displayed across a variety of devices and the 16:9 aspect ratio ensures your video will look good on most screens.

3. Bumper Ads:
Recommended Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (landscape)

Resolution: 1920x1080 pixels (Full HD) or 1280x720 pixels (HD).

Why this works: Bumper ads are short, non-skippable ads that are best served in the 16:9 format for maximum compatibility and engagement. Since they're only 6 seconds long, this aspect ratio helps deliver the message effectively and efficiently.

4. Discovery Ads (formerly TrueView Discovery Ads):
Recommended Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (landscape)

Resolution: 1920x1080 pixels (Full HD) or 1280x720 pixels (HD).

Why this works: Discovery ads are often displayed alongside other YouTube content, such as search results or related videos. The 16:9 aspect ratio works best here as it is the standard for YouTube content and ensures the thumbnail or video fits seamlessly into the platform.

5. Vertical Video Ads (for Mobile):
Recommended Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (portrait)

Resolution: 1080x1920 pixels (Full HD).

Why this works: Mobile-first video consumption has made vertical videos increasingly popular. If you're targeting mobile users, especially on platforms like YouTube Shorts or in-feed ads, the 9:16 aspect ratio is ideal as it fills the entire mobile screen.

6. YouTube Shorts Ads:
Recommended Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (portrait)

Resolution: 1080x1920 pixels (Full HD).

Why this works: YouTube Shorts is optimized for vertical video, and using the 9:16 aspect ratio ensures your ad fits the full screen for mobile viewers.

7. Display Ads (Banner Ads on YouTube):
Recommended Aspect Ratio: 1.91:1 (landscape)

Resolution: 1200x628 pixels.

Why this works: Display ads are typically shown as banners and need to be optimized for various placements, including YouTube's sidebar or on mobile devices. The 1.91:1 aspect ratio is standard for these types of ads.

General Tips for YouTube Ad Aspect Ratios:
Always prioritize the 16:9 aspect ratio for most ad formats, as it's the default for YouTube and works across different devices (desktop, tablet, mobile, TV).

Optimize for mobile: With the increasing usage of mobile devices, consider using the 9:16 aspect ratio for vertical videos to provide a better experience for mobile viewers.

Test different formats: If you're unsure which format works best for your audience, consider running A/B tests with multiple aspect ratios to determine which one yields the best results for your campaign.

Summary:
16:9 (landscape) is the best aspect ratio for most YouTube Ads (skippable, non-skippable, and discovery ads).

For mobile-first content (YouTube Shorts or vertical ads), use 9:16 (portrait).

Always ensure your video resolution meets YouTube's quality standards for the ad format you're using to maximize the effectiveness of your campaign.