How to Add a Logo to a QR Code
Branded QR codes look professional and build trust. Here is how to add your logo without breaking scannability.
Why Add a Logo to Your QR Code?
A plain black-and-white QR code works, but a branded QR code with your logo builds immediate recognition and trust. People are more likely to scan a QR code when they recognise the brand behind it — especially at a point of sale or on packaging.
The good news: QR codes have built-in error correction that allows part of the pattern to be covered. This is what makes logo embedding possible without losing scannability.
Steps to Add a Logo
- 1
Go to the QR generator
Open FreeQRStudio and select your QR code type (URL, vCard, WhatsApp, etc.).
Open generator → - 2
Enter your QR content
Fill in your URL, contact details, or other data. Generate a preview.
- 3
Open the Customize Style panel
Click "Customize Style" to reveal the customization options.
- 4
Upload your logo
Scroll to the Logo / Image section and click the upload area. Select a PNG with a transparent background for best results.
- 5
Adjust the logo size
Use the size slider to keep the logo under 30% of the QR code area. A warning appears if it exceeds 35%.
- 6
Verify error correction is set to High
FreeQRStudio does this automatically when you upload a logo. Check the "Error Correction Level" selector to confirm it shows "High".
- 7
Test and download
Test the QR code in the preview on your phone. Then download as SVG or PNG at the highest resolution.
Logo File Format Guide
PNG (transparent)
✅ Best
Transparent background blends perfectly into the QR code center.
SVG
✅ Good
Vector format, sharp at any size. Supported by most browsers.
JPEG
⚠️ Avoid
White background creates a visible square in the QR center.
The Golden Rules of QR Logos
Keep the logo under 30% of the QR code area
Always use High (Level H) error correction
Test on at least two different devices before printing
Use a PNG with transparent background
Do not use a logo that is wider than it is tall — it takes up more horizontal data modules
Do not place text over the QR code pattern itself
Never use a very light logo on a light background
Always test before bulk printing
A QR code with a logo can look perfect on screen but fail to scan in print at small sizes. Always print a test copy and scan it from the same distance and lighting your audience will use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will adding a logo break the QR code?
Not if done correctly. QR codes have built-in error correction. At Level H (High), up to 30% of the pattern can be obscured and the code will still scan. Keep the logo under 30% of the QR code area and always test before printing.
What is the best file format for the logo?
PNG with a transparent background is ideal. SVG is also supported. Avoid JPEG logos as they typically have a white background square that may look inconsistent in the center of the QR code.
How big can the logo be?
Keep the logo size at 30% or less of the QR code area. FreeQRStudio displays a warning if you exceed 35%. Larger logos drastically reduce scan reliability.
Do I need to set High error correction when adding a logo?
Yes, always. FreeQRStudio automatically sets error correction to High (Level H) when you upload a logo, but verify this is enabled before downloading.
Add your logo to a QR code for free
No design skills or account required.