Yes -- you can put a logo in a QR code
A QR code does not need every one of its little squares (called modules) to be readable. The QR standard includes error correction, a form of redundancy that lets a scanner reconstruct the data even when part of the pattern is missing or covered. That is exactly what makes a center logo possible: the logo hides some modules, and the error-correction data fills in the gap.
The trick is doing it within the limits. Cover too much, drop your contrast, or sit the logo on a structural part of the code and it stops scanning. Get the three variables below right and a branded code scans just as reliably as a plain one.
The three rules that keep a logo QR code scannable
1. Use high error correction (level H)
QR codes come in four error-correction levels. Each can recover a different share of the code if it is damaged or obscured:
| Level | Recovers up to | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| L (Low) | ~7% | Clean digital-only codes |
| M (Medium) | ~15% | General print |
| Q (Quartile) | ~25% | Print in busy environments |
| H (High) | ~30% | Logo & branded codes |
For a logo code, use level H. It gives you the most room to cover the center while leaving enough redundant data to reconstruct the pattern.
2. Keep the logo small and centered
Place the logo in the middle of the code and keep it under roughly 30% of the total code area -- less is safer. Never let it touch or overlap the three large squares in the corners (the finder patterns) or the timing lines, because scanners use those to locate and orient the code.
3. Protect contrast
Scanners read a QR code by the contrast between dark modules and a light background. Keep dark-on-light: a dark pattern on a white or light background is safest. If you brand with color, make sure the modules stay clearly darker than the background, add a small light "quiet zone" border around the code, and give the logo a clean margin so it does not blend into the pattern.
How to create a branded QR code
- Create your codeOpen the free QR Cheetah generator and enter your link. Keep it dynamic so you can edit the destination later.
- Apply your brand colorsSet the module and background colors to match your brand while keeping strong dark-on-light contrast.
- Add your logoUpload a simple, high-contrast PNG or SVG mark. Logo upload and advanced branding are on the paid plans.
- Test before you printScan the code with more than one phone, at the size you will actually print, before producing anything.
- Download and deployExport a high-resolution PNG or SVG and place it on packaging, signage, cards, or ads.
Branding best practices
- Add a short call to action. "Scan to order," "Scan for menu," or "Scan to save 10%" lifts scans more than the code alone.
- Match the code to the medium. Print bigger for posters and far-viewing; the minimum reliable print size is about one inch (2.5 cm) wide.
- Use a simple logo mark. A detailed full-color logo shrinks into mush at the center -- a monogram or icon reads far better.
- Keep the quiet zone. Leave clear space around the code; crowding it with text or graphics causes scan failures.
- Stay consistent. Use the same colors and logo treatment across all your codes so they read as part of your brand.
Custom branding: free vs paid
QR Cheetah lets you customize colors for free, and every code -- free or paid -- supports unlimited scans and never expires. Full custom branding, including logo upload, is part of the paid plans: branding starts at $7/month, with dedicated logo upload included on the Pro plan alongside bulk generation and advanced analytics. See the full breakdown on the pricing page.
Because QR Cheetah codes can be dynamic, a branded code you print today can point somewhere new tomorrow -- keep your logo on the packaging while you change the campaign behind it.