Convert PNG to ICO (favicon)
Turn a PNG into a Windows ICO icon containing 16, 32 and 48 pixel versions. No upload.
We're not interested in your data. A platform built free from surveillance.
Drop your files here
Choose filesConvert many at once · files never leave this browser
PNG
Why convert PNG to ICO?
A favicon needs to be an ICO holding several sizes so browsers and Windows can pick the right one for a tab, a shortcut or the taskbar. This builds all three sizes into a single file, keeping transparency and padding non-square images instead of cropping them.
PNG vs ICO at a glance
| PNG | ICO | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Raster image | Raster image |
| Compression | Lossless | Lossless |
| Transparency | Yes | Yes |
| Animation | No | No |
| Introduced | 1996 | 1985 |
| Created by | W3C | Microsoft |
| Best for | Screenshots, logos and graphics with sharp edges or transparency | Website favicons and Windows icons |
What goes inside an ICO file
An ICO file is a small container that can hold several versions of the same icon at different sizes. Localvert puts 16×16, 32×32 and 48×48 pixel versions in one file — the sizes browsers and Windows actually use for tabs, bookmarks, the taskbar and desktop shortcuts.
Each size is stored as a PNG inside the ICO, so transparency is kept and the file stays small.
Start from a square image
Icons are square. Use a square PNG, ideally 256×256 or larger, with the subject filling most of the space. Thin lines and small text disappear at 16×16, so simple, bold shapes work best.
If your logo is wide, make a square version (for example just the symbol or the first letter) before converting.
Using it as a favicon
Save the file as favicon.ico in the root of your website. Most browsers find it automatically; you can also add <link rel="icon" href="/favicon.ico"> to your page head. Modern sites often add a PNG or SVG icon as well, but favicon.ico remains the most compatible option.
Is it safe?
Yes. This conversion runs entirely inside your browser, and your PNG file is never sent to a server. Metadata such as location is also removed automatically.
Advertisement
How to convert PNG to ICO
- 1Drop your PNG files onto the box above, click it to choose files, or paste an image with Ctrl+V.
- 2Optionally pick a quality preset, or open fine-tune to set an exact quality or a maximum width and height.
- 3Conversion starts immediately and runs on your own device. Nothing is uploaded, so even large batches start without waiting for a transfer.
- 4Download each ICO file individually, or grab everything at once as a single ZIP.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my icon look blurry?
Large detailed images become blurry when shrunk to 16 pixels. Simplify the design, increase contrast and avoid thin outlines.
Does it support 256×256 icons?
Localvert includes 16, 32 and 48 px, which covers favicons and standard Windows icons. Very large desktop icons aren't included to keep the file small.
Is the transparent background kept?
Yes. Transparent areas in your PNG stay transparent in every size inside the ICO.
Is it really free?
Yes. Converting PNG to ICO is free with no sign-up and no watermark. The free plan handles several files per batch; an optional premium licence removes ads and raises the limits.
Are my files uploaded anywhere?
No. Your PNG files are read and converted by your browser on your own device. You can confirm it by opening your browser's developer tools and watching the Network tab while you convert: no file upload ever appears.
Advertisement