Image converter
PNG to ICO Converter
Make a favicon or Windows icon from a PNG. Choose the sizes you need, and they are all packed into one .ico file with transparency kept.
Setting up a website icon? The Favicon Generator makes favicon.ico plus the Apple touch icon, Android icons and the HTML tags in one download.
What happens when you convert PNG to ICO
An ICO file holds several sizes of the same icon. Browsers and Windows pick the size that fits: 16 and 32 px for browser tabs, 48 px and up for desktop shortcuts.
Non-square images are centred on a transparent square, so the icon is not stretched.
PNG vs ICO
| Format | Transparency | Compression | Animation | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PNG | Yes | Lossless | No | Logos, screenshots, graphics with text, and anything needing a transparent background. |
| ICO | Yes | Lossless | No | Website favicons and Windows icons; one file holds several sizes. |
When to convert PNG to ICO
- Creating a favicon.ico for a website.
- Making a Windows desktop or application icon.
- Platforms that ask specifically for an .ico file.
Tips for the best result
- Start from a square PNG of at least 256 × 256 px for the sharpest results.
- Simple, bold designs read best at 16 px; fine detail disappears at that size.
Frequently asked questions
Which sizes should a favicon include?
16, 32 and 48 px cover browser tabs, bookmarks and Windows shortcuts. Add 256 px for high-resolution desktop icons.
Is transparency kept?
Yes. The icons are stored as PNG images inside the ICO, which supports transparency.
My image is not square. What happens?
It is centred on a transparent square canvas, so it keeps its proportions.
How do I add the favicon to my website?
Upload favicon.ico to your site’s root folder, or add <link rel="icon" href="/favicon.ico"> to your pages’ head.
Last reviewed 2 October 2026. This converter runs in your browser; your images are never uploaded or stored.