How to Add a Logo to Your QR Code (Without Breaking It)
Brand your QR codes safely — here's how to add a logo without making them unscannable.
QR codes have built-in error correction that lets them remain scannable even if part of the pattern is obscured. That's how you can put a logo in the center without breaking the code — but only if you do it right.
Error correction levels
QR codes encode redundancy at four levels:
| Level | Recovers | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| L | ~7% | Plain QR, no overlays |
| M | ~15% | Default, small decorations |
| Q | ~25% | Small to medium logo |
| H | ~30% | Logo, watermark, distressed surfaces |
There is no level to pick here. Every code this generator builds uses H, the highest of the four, which is what a centred logo needs. The table is worth reading anyway, because the choice matters on other tools and a code that came from one may be sitting lower.
Logo size and placement
- The logo can cover up to 25% of the QR area at level H. Stay closer to 15-20% for safety.
- Center placement is most reliable. The corners contain the finder patterns (the three big squares) — never cover them.
- Use a square or circle logo. Irregular shapes can confuse scanners.
- Solid background behind the logo (white or your brand color) helps the scanner distinguish the logo from the QR pattern.
Step-by-step in QRolling
- Generate your QR with the content of your choice (URL, vCard, etc.).
- In the Design step, switch to the Logo tab.
- Upload your logo as PNG or SVG. SVG is preferred for crisp rendering at any size.
- Adjust the size — the live preview updates as you drag.
- Test with the built-in scanner preview before downloading.
- Always test the printed/exported version with at least three real scanner apps.
Common mistakes
- Logo too large: anything over 30% of the QR area starts breaking even high-correction codes.
- Transparent logo on busy QR: pattern visible through the logo confuses scanners. Use a solid background plate.
- Skipping the test: every logo placement needs validation. Don't print 1,000 cards and find out 30% can't scan.
Frequently asked
Why does my QR code with a logo not scan?
Most likely the logo is too big (>25% area). Codes built here already carry H, the highest of the four levels, so there is nothing to raise — reduce the logo to under 20% of the area instead. A code from another tool may also be sitting at a lower level, which is a second reason the same logo fails there.
Can I use a transparent PNG logo?
Yes, but place a solid white or brand-colored shape behind it. Scanners need to distinguish the logo from the QR pattern clearly.