How to Add a Logo to a QR Code Without Breaking It
· 2 min read · Scanlexa team
A logo in the middle tells people the code is really yours, and branded codes tend to feel more trustworthy than plain ones. Done carelessly, though, a logo can stop the code scanning.
Why a logo doesn't break a QR code
QR codes have error correction built in: extra data that lets a scanner rebuild parts of the pattern that are damaged or hidden. There are four levels, recovering roughly 7%, 15%, 25% and 30% of the code.
When you add a logo, you're deliberately hiding part of the pattern. Scanlexa switches the code to the highest level (H, about 30%) automatically as soon as you add a logo, so there's enough spare data to cover it.
Keep the logo to about a quarter of the width
Error correction only stretches so far. We cap logos at 25% of the code's width, and we recommend 15% to 20% for most logos. The designer checks every change by scanning the code, and tells you if it no longer reads.
Give it some space
A small margin around the logo keeps the dots behind it from looking messy and makes the logo easier to see. Hide dots behind the logo gives a clean square or circle of background around it. Turn this off for transparent logos if you like dots showing through.
Which logo file to use
- PNG with a transparent background works best.
- SVG stays crisp at any size.
- JPG works, but its white box will show; set the code's background to match.
- Keep it simple: a symbol or initials read better at small sizes than a full logo with small words.
Match the colours
Once your logo is in, use Match my logo colours in the designer. It finds the main colours in your logo and suggests colour schemes that keep strong contrast, so the code feels on-brand and still scans. Read more about choosing QR code colours.
Test the printed code
Print one at the final size and scan it with two or three phones, including an older one, from the distance people will stand. See why QR codes don't scan if it struggles.
Save it for every code
With Lifetime you can save your logo, colours and font as a brand kit. New codes start with it automatically, so everything you print looks consistent.