Why Windows 11 MKV Files Not Displaying Video Thumbnails

Part 1. Why Windows 11 MKV Files Not Displaying Video Thumbnails

In Windows 11’s File Explorer, there is a convenient feature that lets you view MKV files as thumbnails rather than a list. This functionality makes the navigation through files and folders easier. Additionally, these thumbnail previews provide more detailed information than a standard representation. However, there are instances where Windows 11’s MKV video files are not displaying MKV video thumbnails. In this section, we will break down the common reasons why MKV files might not be appearing in Windows 11.

1.1 Inaccurate Thumbnail Preview Settings

Windows OS has specific settings that control how thumbnails are displayed for different file types. If the thumbnail preview settings are not configured correctly, the system may not display it. This can occur if thumbnail previews are disabled in the File Explorer options.

1.2 Cached Files Taking Up Too Much Storage Space

Windows uses a caching system to store thumbnails for quicker access in the future. If the cached files take up excessive storage space, the system will stop generating thumbnails. A bloated cache can create conflicts that prevent thumbnails from being displayed.

1.3 System Files May Have Errors

Corrupted system files can lead to operational issues within Windows 11, including thumbnail generation. If essential files that facilitate thumbnail previews are compromised, the system may not be able to create or display thumbnails for MKV files.

Part 2. How to Fix Windows 11 MKV Files Not Displaying Video Thumbnails

Now that you have learned why you can’t see the MKV thumbnail, it is time to master the troubleshooting techniques. In this section, we will provide solutions you can implement to restore thumbnail previews for MKV files.

2.1 Enable Thumbnail Previews

The straightforward solution to fix missing MKV thumbnails is to ensure thumbnail previews are enabled. Windows 11 enables you to toggle between icons and thumbnails in File Explorer. If the setting to show thumbnails is disabled, then only the generic icons will appear.

Here’s how to enable thumbnail previews:

Step 1Open the File Explorer and click the View option from the menu bar.

Step 2Select the Options and switch to the View section in the Folder Options.

Step 3Under the Advanced Settings, unchecked Always show icons, never thumbnails.

2.2 Clear Thumbnail Cache

If thumbnail previews are still not displaying after confirming the settings, there’s still a workaround. Clearing the thumbnail cache can help refresh the system’s stored thumbnail data. Over time, Windows caches thumbnails to improve loading speeds in File Explorer.

Here’s how to clear the thumbnail cache:

Step 1Access the Settings app and select the System option.

Step 2Proceed to the Storage tab and click the Temporary Files option.

Step 3Check Thumbnails and click Remove Files to clear the thumbnail cache.

2.3 Restore File Explorer Options to Default

Beyond the two solutions provided, restoring File Explorer’s settings to default can resolve thumbnail issues. This option resets all File Explorer settings, which can be useful if specific configurations have affected the way thumbnails are handled.

Here’s how to reset File Explorer settings:

Step 1In the File Explorer, select Options and click the View section.

Step 2Move to the Folder Options’ bottom part and click Restore Defaults.

Step 3Click the Apply button to reset all File Explorer settings to their original state.

Part 3. How to Change and Customize Thumbnail for Each MKV in Windows 10

Default thumbnails show random frames that do not represent the core theme of the video. If you’re managing a large media library and you want to locate specific videos easily, changing and customizing thumbnails is recommended. That said, 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate can be your companion to change MKV video thumbnails.

Although the name suggests otherwise, it’s actually a multi-functional software. Beyond media conversion, it comes with a toolbox boasting 20+ essential tools, including the Media Metadata Editor. This feature gives you the option to upload a custom thumbnail for your video file. Additionally, you can change other metadata information if needed. Options include the file name, title, artists, album, composer, genre, year, track, and comment.

Here’s how to add a thumbnail to MKV using 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate:

Step 1Initially, get a free download of 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate. Install the multi-functional software and wait for the installation process to finish.

Step 2Once the installation is complete, launch 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate on your computer. Proceed to the Toolbox section and select the Media Metadata Editor.

Step 3In the Media Metadata Editor window, click the + button to import your video file. Currently, this feature doesn’t support MKV, so you need to convert MKV to MP4 first.

Step 4After loading the video, click the + button to import the thumbnail you want to use. Optionally, you can rotate it to the left or right to correct the thumbnail’s orientation.

Step 5If needed, configure other metadata such as file name, title, artists, album, composer, genre, etc. Once everything is set, click the Save button to apply all the changes made.

4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate provides a convenient solution to custom thumbnails for each MKV in Windows 10. Aside from changing and customizing thumbnails, there are plenty of editing tools worth exploring.

Conclusion

Now you can fix MKV files not displaying video thumbnails in Windows 11 by yourself! This post provided you with several fixes you can try to address the thumbnail preview issue. Meanwhile, if you want to change and customize your thumbnail, 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate can be your go-to platform.