QR Codes with a Logo: How They Work Without Breaking
Published January 24, 2026 · QR Toolkit Editorial Team
QR codes are built with error correction — extra redundant data that lets a scanner reconstruct the code even if part of it is damaged, dirty, or covered. Adding a logo intentionally uses up some of that tolerance, which is why it needs to be sized and placed carefully.
How error correction levels work
| Level | Recoverable if obscured | Use case |
|---|---|---|
| L (Low) | ~7% | Clean digital display, no logo |
| M (Medium) | ~15% | General use, default for most codes |
| Q (Quartile) | ~25% | Printed materials, some wear expected |
| H (High) | ~30% | Logos, damaged surfaces, harsh printing conditions |
Rules of thumb for a logo
- Keep the logo to roughly 15–20% of the QR code's width.
- Use High (H) error correction whenever a logo is present.
- Add a small background pad behind the logo for contrast against the code's pattern.
- Always test-scan the final code with two or three different phones before printing at scale.
The QR code generator with logo applies these defaults automatically.
Frequently asked questions
Why doesn't a logo break the QR code?
QR codes include built-in error correction that lets them stay readable even with part of the pattern missing or obscured. A small, centered logo uses up some of that tolerance without exceeding it.