QR Codes with Logos: Dos and Don's
Adding your logo to a QR code is a great way to reinforce brand identity while maintaining functionality. Learn the correct way to create branded QR codes that scan reliably while looking professional.
🎯 The Golden Rules for QR Code Logos
Rule #1: Error Correction Level
ALWAYS use Error Correction Level H (High - 30% recovery)
The logo covers QR modules, effectively creating "damage." Level H allows up to 30% of the code to be restored, making it essential for logos.
Rule #2: Logo Size Limit
Keep logo under 20-25% of total QR code area
Larger logos = more covered modules = higher chance of scan failure. The 30% recovery capacity includes other potential damage, not just the logo.
Rule #3: Center Placement
Place logo in the center of the QR code
The center has the most redundancy for error correction. Avoid corners where the three finder patterns (position markers) are located.
📏 Logo Size Guidelines
| Error Correction Level | Max Logo Coverage | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| L (7% recovery) | 0-5% | Not recommended |
| M (15% recovery) | 5-10% | Risky - test extensively |
| Q (25% recovery) | 10-15% | Acceptable for small logos |
| H (30% recovery) | 15-25% | Recommended - safest option |
⚠️ Important: The 30% recovery of Level H is not ALL available for your logo. It also covers edge damage, printing errors, quiet zone violations, and wear. Keep logos to 20-25% maximum.
✅ Logo Best Practices
✓ DO THIS
- →Use error correction Level H
- →Keep logo under 20% of QR area
- →Place logo in the center
- →Use simple, recognizable logos
- →Add white border around logo
- →Test scan from multiple devices
- →Use high contrast logo colors
- →Test in various lighting conditions
✗ DON'T DO THIS
- →Use logos larger than 25%
- →Place logo over corner patterns
- →Use low error correction levels
- →Use complex, detailed logos
- →Make logo transparent/semi-transparent
- →Skip testing before printing
- →Use logos with poor contrast
- →Stretch or distort the logo
🎨 Logo Design Tips
1. Logo Simplicity
✓ Good Logos
- • Simple shapes
- • Solid colors (no gradients)
- • Clear, bold design
- • Recognizable at small sizes
✗ Problematic Logos
- • Intricate details
- • Gradients or shadows
- • Thin lines or small text
- • Multiple colors
2. Logo Borders & Padding
Add a white border/padding around your logo to separate it from the QR pattern. This improves scannability and looks more professional.
Recommended: 5-10 pixel white border around logo at standard sizes
3. Logo Shape Considerations
Square/Circle
Best - fits naturally in QR center, balanced coverage
Horizontal
Good - works well, may need larger QR code
Vertical
Acceptable - less common, test thoroughly
❌ Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Mistake #1: Logo Too Large
Problem: QR won't scan or works inconsistently
Solution: Use a size calculator or ensure logo is under 20% of total area. When in doubt, go smaller.
Mistake #2: Wrong Error Correction Level
Problem: QR fails to scan even with small logo
Solution: Always regenerate QR with Level H before adding logo. Cannot be changed after generation.
Mistake #3: Logo Over Finder Patterns
Problem: Scanner can't locate QR code corners
Solution: Never place logo over the three corner squares. Always center the logo.
Mistake #4: No Testing Before Bulk Printing
Problem: Thousands of non-scannable QR codes printed
Solution: Print test samples, scan with 5+ different devices, test in various lighting.