Convert PNG to ICO Online
Create Windows icons from your PNG images with our PNG to ICO converter. ICO (Icon) format is required for Windows application icons, favicons, and system shortcuts. Our converter transforms your PNG files into properly formatted ICO files that work across Windows applications, websites, and operating system interfaces.
PNG is an excellent source format for icons because it supports transparency with smooth edges. The alpha channel in your PNG will be preserved in the resulting ICO file, ensuring your icons display correctly against any background color.
Why PNG is Ideal for Icon Creation
PNG's lossless compression and full alpha transparency make it the perfect source format for creating icons. Unlike JPEG, PNG preserves sharp edges without compression artifacts—critical for small icons where every pixel matters. The smooth transparency allows icons to blend seamlessly with any desktop background or browser tab bar.
For best results, start with a square PNG at least 256x256 pixels with a transparent background. Use clear, simple designs that remain recognizable at small sizes. Avoid fine details that will disappear when the icon is displayed at 16x16 pixels.
ICO Format and Multi-Resolution Icons
ICO files can contain multiple image sizes in a single file, allowing Windows to display the appropriate resolution for each context. Common sizes include 16x16 (small icons), 32x32 (standard icons), 48x48 (large icons), and 256x256 (extra-large icons and thumbnails). Modern Windows versions prefer 256x256 PNG-compressed icons.
When converting a single PNG, the converter may generate multiple sizes automatically or produce a single-resolution icon. For professional applications requiring multiple sizes, consider creating separate PNG versions at each target resolution for optimal clarity.
Common Uses for ICO Files
- Website favicons — the small icon in browser tabs and bookmarks
- Windows applications — executable file icons and shortcuts
- Desktop shortcuts — custom icons for files and folders
- Windows Start menu — application icons in program lists
- Taskbar icons — pinned application identifiers
Favicon Implementation Tips
For website favicons, place your ICO file in your site's root directory as "favicon.ico". Modern browsers also support PNG favicons linked in HTML, but ICO provides maximum compatibility with older browsers. Consider providing both formats: ICO for legacy support and PNG for modern browsers.
Icon Design Best Practices
Effective icons are recognizable even at 16x16 pixels. Use bold, simple shapes with high contrast. Avoid text, gradients, and fine details that disappear at small sizes. Test your design at multiple sizes before finalizing—if it's not instantly recognizable as a tiny thumbnail, simplify further.
Consider how your icon looks alongside Windows system icons. Match the visual weight and style of existing icons for a professional appearance. Use consistent padding around edges (typically 10% of icon size) to prevent icons from appearing cramped or clipped.
Windows Icon Size Requirements
Windows displays icons at various sizes depending on context: 16x16 for menu items and small icons view, 32x32 for desktop shortcuts in medium view, 48x48 for large icons, and 256x256 for extra-large icon view and Windows Explorer tiles. Including all sizes in your ICO ensures crisp display in every context.
Related Tools
- ICO to PNG — extract images from icon files
- JPG to ICO — create icons from photographs
- SVG to PNG — rasterize vectors for icon creation