How to Create Windows App Icons
Windows asks for 7 different icon sizes. A single .ico can hold all of them.
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The Windows icon size matrix
Microsoft recommends bundling 16, 24, 32, 48, 64, 128, and 256 in one .ico. The OS picks the right one per surface.
Compression matters at 256×256
Use PNG compression for the 128 and 256 entries — uncompressed BMP at that size produces a 256KB+ file.
Tools that do this right
Our generator bundles every size with optimal compression. Drop a 512×512 source and you're done.
FAQ
What sizes should a Windows .ico contain?
Bundle 16, 24, 32, 48, 64, 128, and 256 pixels in one .ico. Windows picks the best size per surface.
How do I create a Windows app icon from a PNG?
Start from a 512×512 square PNG and convert to a multi-size .ico with a tool that embeds PNG compression for larger entries.
Why is my Windows .ico file so large?
Uncompressed BMP entries at 256×256 bloat the file. Use PNG-compressed entries inside the .ico container instead.