Pinterest Cover Size Dimensions and Design Tips
Learn the optimal Pinterest cover image sizes, aspect ratios, and design tips for profiles and boards to ensure clear, professional visuals.

Introduction to Pinterest Cover Images and Why Size Matters
Pinterest is a highly visual social platform, and every detail of your profile layout influences how your brand is perceived. One of the most important visual elements is your Pinterest cover image size. Choosing the optimal Pinterest cover size ensures your content looks professional, clear, and consistent across devices.
Whether your goal is boosting brand awareness, highlighting a creative portfolio, or curating themed boards, nailing the correct dimensions can help you:
- Avoid awkward cropping and off-center layouts
- Ensure crisp, high-quality imagery
- Achieve consistent display on desktop, tablet, and mobile

In a feed that moves quickly, your cover image is often the first clue to your style, niche, and professionalism. Understanding — and designing for — the precise Pinterest dimensions puts you ahead in both branding and audience engagement.
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Current Official Pinterest Cover Size in Pixels
Pinterest occasionally updates its layout, which can affect cover image display. As of the latest guidelines:
- Pinterest Profile Cover Size: 800 x 450 pixels (recommended)
- Pinterest Board Cover Size: Minimum 222 x 150 pixels, but a higher resolution such as 600 x 600 pixels is ideal for sharper visuals.
The variation exists because profile covers span the width of the profile header, while board covers appear in smaller thumbnail grids.
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Differences Between Personal Profile Covers and Board Covers
Each type of Pinterest cover has unique requirements for shape, size, and placement:
Cover Type | Recommended Size | Aspect Ratio | Where It Appears |
---|---|---|---|
Profile Cover | 800 x 450 px | 16:9 | Top header of profile |
Board Cover | 600 x 600 px (min 222 x 150 px) | 1:1 or wider crop | Within board thumbnails |
Tip: Use profile covers for expressive brand imagery or storytelling, and keep board covers simple yet clear for quick recognition.
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How Aspect Ratio Impacts Display Across Devices
Pinterest uses responsive design to adapt layouts from desktop to mobile:
- 16:9 aspect ratio is best for profile covers, maintaining proportions and preventing distortion.
- Square (1:1) or slightly rectangular is better for board covers, with the subject centered.
If your aspect ratio doesn’t match Pinterest’s display areas, your image can be cropped unpredictably — with mobile layouts being the most prone to cutting off vital parts.

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Recommended File Formats and Resolution for Quality
To ensure optimal load speed and clarity:
- JPEG (.jpg): Best for photographs and gradient-heavy designs.
- PNG (.png): Best for transparent elements, sharp text, and logos.
- Avoid GIF for covers — large file sizes slow loading and can reduce quality.
Aim for 72–150 DPI for web clarity, and keep file sizes under 10MB. Always preview your design before final upload.
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Step-by-Step Guide: Uploading or Changing a Pinterest Cover Image
Here’s how to change your cover image for both profiles and boards:
For Profile Cover
- Log in to Pinterest and click your profile image at the top right.
- Select Edit profile.
- Go to the Cover image section.
- Click Change cover, upload/select your new image, and adjust cropping.
- Save changes.
For Board Cover
- Go to your profile and open the desired board.
- Click the pencil icon (Edit board).
- Scroll to Cover and click Change.
- Select a pin image or upload a custom image.
- Save, then refresh to confirm updates.
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Avoiding Common Pinterest Cover Image Mistakes
To keep your profile visually appealing:
- Upload images at the recommended resolution to avoid blurriness.
- Keep central elements within the safe zone to prevent cropping.
- Avoid overcrowding with too many text or design elements.
- Ensure high color contrast for readability.
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Design Tips for Color, Text, and Brand Consistency
Your cover conveys brand tone as much as your bio or pins. Stick to:
- High-contrast colors that stand out in the feed.
- Central safe zone placement: keep important elements within ~80% of the image width and height.
- Consistent brand colors, typography, and logo usage.
- Minimal, impactful text for quick readability.

Pro Tip: Always preview cover drafts in mobile view to ensure your design translates well.
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Tools and Templates to Create Perfectly Sized Covers
No professional design skills? These tools make it easy:
- Canva: Ready-made Pinterest cover templates.
- Adobe Photoshop: Full customization for pros.
- Figma: Collaborative design for teams.
Create and save templates at 800 x 450 px (profile) and 600 x 600 px (board) for consistent branding.
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Optimizing Pinterest Cover Images for SEO and Engagement
Well-designed covers can also support Pinterest SEO:
- SEO-friendly file names: e.g., `pinterest-cover-size-guide.jpg`
- Descriptive image alt text that matches your Pinterest content themes
- Regular updates to align with seasonal campaigns
These small optimizations help both the algorithm and your audience discover and engage with your profile.
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Staying Updated on Pinterest Size Changes
Because Pinterest periodically adjusts layouts:
- Bookmark the Pinterest Business Blog.
- Join Pinterest creator groups and forums.
- Test images after any redesign.
Keep editable design files handy for quick updates.
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Conclusion: Pinterest Cover Size Best Practices
To recap, follow these guidelines for effective Pinterest covers:
Type | Recommended Dimensions | Aspect Ratio | Formats |
---|---|---|---|
Profile Cover | 800 x 450 px | 16:9 | JPEG / PNG |
Board Cover | 600 x 600 px (minimum 222 x 150 px) | 1:1 or slight rectangle | JPEG / PNG |
Quick Reference:
- Profile Cover — 800 x 450 px, 16:9 ratio
- Board Cover — Preferred 600 x 600 px, minimum 222 x 150 px
- Max file size: 10MB
- Formats: JPEG, PNG
Mastering your Pinterest cover image size will keep your profile visually polished, reinforce your brand identity, and maximize engagement. For ongoing success, pair correct sizing with consistent brand design and stay informed about Pinterest layout changes.
Ready to update your Pinterest profile? Start applying these size guidelines today to create a lasting visual impression.