A website logo should be sharp on every screen, readable at small header sizes and fast to load. Use an SVG file (or a large transparent PNG), provide a compact version for mobile headers and favicons, keep contrast high against your header background, and link the logo to your homepage.
Your website header is where many customers first meet your brand. A blurry, oversized or hard-to-read logo undermines trust immediately. These tips cover design and the technical details that make a logo look professional online.
Design tips for website logos
Favor a horizontal layout
Headers are wide and short. A horizontal version of your logo fits better than a tall stacked one and leaves space for navigation.
Plan a compact version
On phones, the header may be only 50–60 pixels tall. An icon or shortened wordmark keeps the logo readable.
Keep strong contrast
Check the logo on your actual header color. A light logo on a light header, or thin lines on a busy photo, disappears.
Simplify details
Fine textures and small taglines vanish at header size. Save the full lockup for print.
Technical tips
- Use SVG where possible. SVG logos stay crisp on high-resolution screens and are usually tiny.
- Otherwise use a large transparent PNG, at least twice the display size, for retina screens.
- Set width and height so the page does not jump while loading.
- Add descriptive alt text, such as your business name.
- Create a favicon from your icon for browser tabs and bookmarks.
- Link the logo to your homepage, as visitors expect.
Consistency across your online presence
Use the same logo, colors and fonts on your website, Google Business Profile, social media and email signature. Consistency helps customers recognize you and helps search engines connect your listings.
Common website logo problems
- A small JPG with a white box around it
- A stretched or squashed logo
- A logo so large it pushes content below the fold on mobile
- Different logo versions on different pages
Most of these come from not having proper files. See logo file formats explained.
Need a website to match your logo? See website design for small businesses.
