SVG vs PNG for Discord Server Icons
Why Discord server icons must be PNG/JPG/GIF and how SVG helps design them sharp.
Discord's Server Icon Requirements
Discord server icons must be uploaded as PNG, JPG, or GIF and display as a small circle in the sidebar. SVG isn't supported directly, but it's the best format for designing a crisp, simple mark before exporting.
- Discord needs PNG/JPG/GIF, not SVG, for server icons
- Icons display as a small circle — design accordingly
- Design bold, simple marks in SVG, then export
Designing for the Circle Crop
Since Discord crops server icons to a circle, keep important elements centered within your SVG's square canvas before exporting, avoiding content near the corners that will be cropped away.
- Discord crops the uploaded square image to a circle
- Keep key content centered, away from the corners
- Export a square PNG at a reasonably high resolution
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Discord server icon look cropped oddly?
Discord displays server icons as a circle, so any content near the corners of your square upload gets cropped away — keep key elements centered.
Can I upload an SVG as a Discord server icon?
No — Discord requires PNG, JPG, or GIF for server icons; design in SVG, then export a square PNG to upload.
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