How to add a logo to a QR code safely

Free QR Codes does not currently add logos. If you modify an exported QR code in design software, keep the logo modest, protect the functional patterns and test the final production artwork—not only the original code.

Protect the parts cameras use to orient the code

Do not cover the three large finder squares, their surrounding separators, the smaller alignment patterns or the quiet zone outside the grid. A centred logo avoids the finder squares, but it still replaces data modules.

Use a controlled logo treatment

• Keep the logo area as small as practical.
• Place it on a simple, solid background so its edge does not resemble QR modules.
• Keep the remaining code dark on a light background with strong contrast.
• Avoid transparent cut-outs that reveal a busy photo behind the code.
• Do not shrink the quiet zone to make room for branding.

Error correction is a safety margin, not permission to guess

Q or H correction may be appropriate when a logo deliberately obscures part of the data. Higher correction can also create a denser symbol, so compare the result at its real physical size. There is no universal safe logo percentage that applies to every payload, position, printer and camera.

Test the finished asset

1. Export the complete composition from the design application.
2. Confirm the exported image decodes to the exact intended content.
3. Print at final size on the intended material.
4. Test multiple phones, distances, angles and realistic lighting.
5. Repeat after any layout, logo, colour, material or printer change.

A logo can make a QR code recognisable, but reliability should win whenever decoration and scanning conflict.