Why a QR code with a logo still scans
Every QR code carries extra, repeated data called error correction. It was designed so that a code still scans when part of it is scratched, dirty or folded. A logo uses that same safety margin: it covers part of the pattern on purpose, and the phone rebuilds the missing data from the rest.
There are four levels of error correction. The higher the level, the more of the code can be lost, but the denser the pattern becomes.
| Level | Data it can recover | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| L | About 7% | Plain codes on screens, no logo |
| M | About 15% | Plain printed codes, no logo |
| Q | About 25% | Codes with a small or medium logo |
| H | About 30% | Larger logos, or codes on packaging that may get scuffed |
QRaft uses Q by default. When you add a logo, stay on Q or move to H. The scannability score warns you if you pick L or M with a logo.
How big can the logo be?
A safe logo width is about 20–30% of the code's width. That sounds large, but because the logo is square, a logo 25% as wide as the code covers only about 6% of its area, well within what Q or H can recover.
Two more rules matter. First, the logo goes in the centre, never over the three large squares in the corners, which phones use to find and straighten the code. Second, it's better to clear the modules behind the logo than to place a logo on top of half-covered dots. QRaft clears the space behind the logo automatically, so every module is either fully visible or fully removed.
Use a simple, square version of your brand: an icon, a monogram or the first letter, not a long wordmark. A long logo shrunk to fit becomes unreadable and still covers the pattern.
How to make a QR code with your logo in QRaft
- Choose the content: a website link, a menu, a PDF, a WhatsApp chat, a contact card or any other type. Pick a dynamic code if you'll print it.
- Upload your logo in the design panel and set its size. Start around 20–25% of the width.
- Keep error correction at Q, or switch to H for a larger logo.
- Pick a dot style, corner style and colors, then add a frame with a short call to action such as "Scan for the menu".
- Watch the scannability score as you design. It warns you about low contrast or a logo that's too big.
- Download SVG or PDF for print, or PNG for screens and quick use.
Colors and contrast for a branded QR code
- Keep a dark code on a light background. Brand colors work well for the code as long as they are dark enough: navy, deep green, burgundy or dark purple are safe choices.
- Avoid inverted codes (light code on a dark background). Most recent phone cameras read them, but some scanner apps and older phones don't.
- With a gradient, check the lightest end. If it fades towards the background color, that part of the code disappears.
- Use a different color for the corner squares if you like. It's an easy way to add brand color without weakening the pattern.
- Rounded and dotted styles scan well. Keep the dots reasonably large, especially when printing small.
The scannability score checks the contrast between every color in the code and the background, so you'll see a warning before a pale color reaches the printer.
Logo QR codes and print size
Higher error correction adds modules to the pattern, so a code with a logo is a little denser than the same code without one. Print it slightly larger: about 2.5 cm on a business card instead of 2 cm, and about 10–20% bigger than usual on flyers and posters.
A dynamic code helps here too. It holds only a short link like qr.linkom.app/AB3DE9K, so the pattern stays simple and there is more room around the logo. A static code with a long web address and a logo can become crowded fast.
Save your logo and colors in a brand kit
If you create codes often, for branches, products or campaigns, save your logo, colors and style in a brand kit. Then every new code gets your look in one click, and all your codes match across menus, packaging and signs.
This is useful for agencies and chains. A restaurant group in Riyadh can keep one look for all branches, and a print shop in Alexandria can keep one kit per client.
Test your QR code with logo before printing
- Print one copy at the real size.
- Scan it with several phones, at least one iPhone and one Android, using the normal camera app.
- Scan from the real distance and in the real light of the place.
- If any phone hesitates, make the logo smaller, raise the error correction to H or darken the colors, then test again.
A design that scans on your own phone on your desk isn't proof. A quick test in real conditions costs a few minutes; a reprint costs far more.
Questions
Does a logo make a QR code harder to scan?+
Not if it's done right. With error correction Q or H, a logo of about 20–30% of the width in the centre, and strong contrast, a logo QR code scans as reliably as a plain one.
Which error correction level should I use with a logo?+
Q for small to medium logos and H for larger ones. Avoid L and M when a logo covers part of the code.
Can I change the logo after printing?+
No. The logo is part of the printed image. With a dynamic code you can change where the code leads at any time, but a new design means a new print.
Can a QR code with a logo be in color?+
Yes. Use dark brand colors for the code on a light background, and check the scannability score before downloading.