SVG vs PNG for Notion
Notion handles both — but each format wins in different slots of the workspace.
Where Each Format Wins
Page icons: SVG wins decisively — crisp at every size the icon renders, from sidebar to page header. Content image blocks: uploaded SVGs are inconsistent, so use PNG for uploads or host SVGs and embed by URL. Covers: PNG at 1500x600 — Notion's cover cropping treats rasters more predictably.
- Icons: SVG, always — sidebar-to-header sharpness
- Content blocks: PNG uploads or hosted-SVG URLs
- Covers: 1500x600 PNG for predictable cropping
Team Workspace Systems
Consistent icon systems transform big workspaces: a matched SVG set (single style, brand palette) hosted once serves every page via URL. Diagrams destined for documentation pages render most reliably as PNG exports at 2x, keeping databases fast to load while staying sharp on retina screens.
- Hosted SVG icon sets scale across whole workspaces
- 2x PNG diagrams balance sharpness and load speed
- Consistent style beats per-page improvisation
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my uploaded SVG not display in a Notion block?
Notion's upload pipeline is inconsistent with SVG. Host the file and paste its URL into an image or embed block — the hosted route renders dependably.
What's the best icon size to design for?
Design SVG icons on a square viewBox with bold shapes readable at 20px — Notion renders icons small in sidebars, and fine detail disappears.
Related guides
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