The little icon in a browser tab is called a favicon, and many website builders, desktop shortcuts and Windows apps still ask for it as an ICO file. This free PNG to ICO converter turns your logo into an icon file in your browser, with no design software needed.
Convert PNG to ICO
Add your PNG files, check the settings and download them as ICO. Batch conversion, no sign-up and no watermark.
What an ICO file is for
ICO is the classic Windows icon format. Websites use it for favicons, and desktop programs use it for shortcut and application icons. Modern browsers also accept PNG favicons, but ICO remains the most widely recognized choice for older systems and some tools, so many site owners keep one on hand.
Make an ICO from your PNG
- Add a square PNG, ideally at least 256 by 256 pixels.
- Select ICO under “Convert to”.
- Download the .ico file, and rename it to favicon.ico if your website expects that name.
How this tool builds the icon
The converter creates one icon image up to 256 by 256 pixels. If your PNG is not square, it is centered on a transparent square so the shape is not stretched. For the sharpest tiny icon, start from a simple square design instead of a wide logo with small text.
| Feature | PNG | ICO |
|---|---|---|
| File size | Depends on resolution | Small for a single icon |
| Quality | Lossless | Icon container |
| Transparency | Supported | Supported |
| Animation | Not supported | Not supported |
| Compatibility | Almost everything | Windows, browsers, many apps |
| Best for | Graphics and screenshots | Favicons and app icons |
Design tips for a clear favicon
- Use a bold symbol or a single letter. Fine detail disappears at 16 pixels.
- Choose strong contrast so the icon is visible on light and dark browser themes.
- Keep generous padding but avoid wasted empty space.
- Export the PNG at 256 by 256 or larger before converting.
Adding your favicon to WordPress
WordPress has a Site Icon setting under Appearance, then Customize, then Site Identity. It accepts a PNG of at least 512 by 512 pixels, so you may not need an ICO at all for a WordPress site. Use ICO when a theme, plugin or other platform specifically asks for it.
Problems and fixes
My favicon looks stretched
The original was not square. Crop it to a square in an image editor first.
The icon is blurry
Use a larger, simpler source image. Complex logos do not survive tiny sizes.
The browser still shows the old icon
Browsers cache favicons for a long time. Clear the cache or open the site in a private window to check.
Private conversion
Your PNG is converted in your browser and is not uploaded. It is free, with no sign-up and no watermark.
What size should my favicon be?
Start from a square image at least 256 by 256 pixels. This tool creates an icon up to 256 by 256.
Can I use PNG as a favicon?
Modern browsers accept PNG favicons, but ICO is still handy for older systems and tools that require it.
Why is my non-square logo not filling the icon?
Non-square images are centered on a transparent square, so they keep their proportions.
Does the ICO keep transparency?
Yes. Transparent areas of your PNG stay transparent.
Is the converter free?
Yes, with no sign-up and no watermark.
Related converters
Browse the main image converter for more formats, or try PNG to JPG, PNG to WebP and PNG to PDF.