How to add a logo to a QR code

You can add a logo to a QR code, but covering too much of the pattern can stop it scanning. Start with a small, simple logo, keep the corner markers clear, and test the finished code at the size you plan to print.

The free rdyrct QR code generator lets you add a logo and download a PNG or SVG without an account. The code and logo stay in your browser.

How to make a QR code with a logo

1. Enter the destination. Paste the URL you want someone to open. If you need to change it later, first create a managed short link and encode that instead.
2. Add your logo. Choose a clear image from your device. A simple mark works better at small sizes than a full wordmark with a tagline.
3. Choose a small logo size. Start with Small in rdyrct. Keep the three large corner markers visible. Increase the logo only if the final code still passes your scan tests.
4. Keep strong contrast. Use dark dots on a light background. Leave a clear margin around the code, and keep nearby text outside it.
5. Download and test. Use PNG for a fixed-size image or SVG for a layout you will scale. Scan a printed proof before ordering the full run.

How big can the logo be?

There is no percentage that guarantees a logo will scan in every QR code. The amount of data, the code pattern, the logo's position, and the final print size all matter.

Error correction helps recover damaged data. DENSO WAVE explains that its percentages refer to codewords, which are units of encoded data. Level H's roughly 30% recovery capacity does not mean you can safely cover 30% of the image with a logo.

rdyrct uses Level H when a logo is present. That gives the code more capacity to recover data, but it is still necessary to test the finished image. If scanning fails, reduce or remove the logo before changing anything else.

Choose the right image and download format

A transparent PNG is a useful starting point for a logo. Remove extra space around the mark and avoid tiny lettering. A larger source image helps prevent blur when the code is printed.

Download the completed QR code as SVG when your layout needs to scale for print. SVG keeps the QR pattern sharp, but an embedded raster logo can still blur if you enlarge it beyond its source resolution. PNG works for a fixed-size image in a document, website, or email.

Keep the clear border

The blank border around a QR code is called its quiet zone. Standard QR codes need at least four modules of clear space on each side. A module is one of the small squares in the pattern. DENSO WAVE's code-area guidance explains the requirement.

Do not crop the border away or place text over it. If you export a transparent background, put the code on a plain, light area in your final design.

Test the code before printing

• Print a proof at its intended size, including the border.
• Scan with an iPhone and an Android phone if you have both available.
• Try the light, distance, and angle people will use.
• Check that the code opens the exact destination you intended.
• Repeat the test after changing the logo, colours, size, or print material.

For business cards and small labels, read the QR code size guide. For a longer checklist, see how to test a QR code.

Can you change the destination after printing?

A QR code that stores the destination URL directly cannot be edited after printing. A code that stores a managed short link can keep the same pattern while you update where the short link redirects.

rdyrct's free standalone generator makes static codes. To manage the destination and measure visits, create a short link in your account and use that link as the QR value. Custom domains and saved QR styling are paid features. See current plans and the branded short-link guide.

Common questions

Can I add a logo for free?

Yes. The standalone generator supports logos and PNG or SVG downloads without an account. The logo is processed locally in your browser.

Why does my QR code stop scanning when I add a logo?

The logo may cover too much data or a pattern the scanner needs. Try a smaller logo, stronger contrast, and a larger printed code. Test again with the final image.

Does the logo make the QR code expire?

No. The image has no expiry. A working destination is still required, and a code that uses a redirect depends on that redirect remaining available.

Make a QR code with your logo.

Want to try it? Make a QR code with your logo and colors in the free QR code generator. It needs no account and adds no watermark.