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How to Convert PNG to ICO Favicon - Step by Step Guide

Step 1

Upload Your PNG Image

Start by uploading your PNG image. For best favicon results, use a square image (256×256px or 512×512px recommended):

Click to upload: Click the upload area or "Upload" button to select your PNG file
Drag and drop: Drag your PNG logo or icon directly into the upload area
Try the sample: Click "Sample" to see demo favicon generation
Transparency support: PNG transparency is fully preserved in the ICO file

Recommended PNG Sizes for Favicons

For best quality at all sizes, start with:

Optimal: 512×512px square PNG with transparent background
Minimum: 256×256px for all standard favicon sizes
Design tip: Keep your design simple - it needs to look good at 16×16px
Step 2

Preview Your Image

Once uploaded, you'll see a preview of your favicon source image. The converter will display:

Image preview: Visual preview of your PNG icon
File information: Original file name and size
Image dimensions: Width and height verification
Step 3

Automatic Multi-Size Generation

The conversion happens automatically and instantly after upload! Our custom ICO encoder creates a professional multi-resolution favicon using the HTML5 Canvas API:

6 standard sizes: 16×16, 32×32, 48×48, 64×64, 128×128, and 256×256 pixels
High-quality scaling: Uses advanced image smoothing for each size
Single file output: All sizes packed into one favicon.ico file
32-bit RGBA: Full transparency support preserved

ICO Size Usage Guide

Each size serves a specific purpose as recommended by MDN Web Docs:

16×16: Browser tabs, bookmarks
32×32: Taskbar, address bar
48×48: Desktop shortcuts
64×64: High-DPI displays
128×128: Chrome Web Store
256×256: Retina displays
Step 4

Download & Use Your Favicon

Once conversion is complete (happens automatically!), you have these options:

Download as favicon.ico: Click "Download" to save your multi-size favicon
Copy to clipboard: Click "Copy" for quick usage
Place in root: Upload favicon.ico to your website's root directory
Convert more: Use "Clear" to create another favicon

How to Use Your Favicon

Add this to your HTML <head> section per W3C guidelines:

<link rel="icon" type="image/x-icon" href="/favicon.ico">

Frequently Asked Questions

What size should my PNG be for best results?

For optimal quality at all favicon sizes, start with a square PNG at least 256×256 pixels. A 512×512px source provides even better quality. Make sure your design is simple and recognizable when scaled down to 16×16px.

Does this converter support transparency?

Yes! PNG transparency is fully preserved in the ICO file. The ICO format stores each size as a 32-bit RGBA image, maintaining full alpha channel support for transparent backgrounds.

Why does one ICO file contain multiple sizes?

According to web standards, ICO files are containers that hold multiple images at different resolutions. This allows browsers to choose the most appropriate size for each context without additional requests.

Is this favicon generator free?

Yes, absolutely! This PNG to ICO converter is completely free with no watermarks, registration, or file limits. All processing happens in your browser for maximum privacy.

Do I need a favicon.ico file in 2024?

While modern browsers support PNG favicons, ICO files are still recommended for maximum compatibility with older browsers. Check browser support for details. You might also want to check our ICO to PNG converter for the reverse operation.

How do I test my favicon?

Upload favicon.ico to your website's root directory and clear your browser cache. Check browser tabs, bookmarks, and history. You can also use online favicon testers or browser developer tools to verify it loads correctly.