Custom QR Codes with Logos & Colors

A branded QR code looks far more professional than a plain black square — but customize it carelessly and it stops scanning. Here's how to add color and a logo while keeping your code reliable.

Color: contrast is everything

You can change the color of the code's dots and background, but the scanner needs to clearly distinguish the two. Rules of thumb:

• Dark dots on a light background is safest. The reverse (light on dark) works on some scanners but is riskier.
• Keep strong contrast — avoid pastel-on-white or two similar shades.
• Avoid gradients across the whole code or busy background images behind it.

Every generator on our site lets you set the dot color and background — try it on the WiFi QR Code Generator and see the preview update live.

Adding a logo in the center

A small logo in the middle works because QR codes have error correction — they can still be read even if part of the pattern is obscured. The key rules:

• Keep the logo small — cover no more than about 15–20% of the code.
• Center it, and leave a little clear padding around it.
• Use a higher error-correction level if your tool offers it.
• Always test the result before printing.

Shape and style

Rounded dots and stylized corners (like the ones our generators use by default) look modern and still scan well. The pattern's structure matters more than the dot shape, so cosmetic styling is generally safe — within reason.

Don't forget the basics

Customization can't rescue a code that's too small or crowded. Combine branding with the fundamentals in QR code sizes and print best practices: adequate size, a clear quiet zone, and SVG export for print.

Test, then ship

Whatever you customize, scan the final version with two or three phones in real lighting before committing to a print run. A code that looks great but won't scan defeats the purpose.

Ready to brand yours? Pick any tool from the free QR code generator collection and adjust the colors to match.