Summary: This guide explains how to prepare logos and images so they render clearly and consistently in Outlook and Xink email signatures.
Why image preparation matters
Email clients, especially Classic Outlook for Windows, can display images differently depending on image size, scaling, file format, and DPI/PPI metadata.
If images are not prepared correctly, logos may appear blurry, stretched, too large, or inconsistent across devices.
Best practices for Outlook images and logos
1. Set the display size first
Before uploading a logo or image, decide on the exact size it should appear in the email signature.
Example:
Logo display size: 120 × 46 px
This helps keep the layout aligned and consistent across all users.
2. Use a high-resolution image
For best results, upload the image at double the intended display size.
Example:
Display size: 120 × 46 px Uploaded image size: 240 × 92 px
The image can then be displayed at 120 × 46 px in the signature HTML. This helps keep the logo sharp on high-DPI screens.
3. Use PNG for logos and graphics
PNG is recommended for logos, icons, and graphics because it preserves sharp edges and avoids compression artifacts.
- Recommended: PNG for logos and graphics
- Avoid: JPG for logos, as it may create blur or visual noise
4. Keep the file size low
Optimized images load faster and perform better in email signatures.
- Compress images without visible quality loss.
- Remove unnecessary metadata where possible.
- Aim for files under 20 KB when possible.
5. Remove extra spacing
Crop images tightly so there is no unnecessary whitespace around the logo or graphic.
This helps avoid:
- Unexpected gaps in the signature
- Poor alignment with text
- Uneven spacing between signature elements
6. Keep the correct proportions
Always preserve the original logo proportions.
Do not stretch, squeeze, recolor, or modify the logo unless this is allowed by your brand guidelines.
Recommended setup
| Element | Recommended setup |
|---|---|
| Display size | 120 × 46 px |
| Uploaded image | 240 × 92 px |
| Scaling | Display at 50% of the uploaded size |
| File format | PNG |
| File size | Approximately 10–20 KB where possible |
| DPI/PPI | 96 DPI is recommended for Outlook compatibility |
About DPI and PPI in Outlook
Outlook for Windows may interpret image scaling differently when images contain non-standard DPI or PPI metadata.
For the most predictable result, use images saved at 96 DPI and control the visible size in the signature HTML using fixed pixel dimensions.
Example:
<img src="logo.png" width="120" height="46" alt="Company logo">
Need help optimizing your logo?
This service is available for existing Xink clients with an active subscription.
If you are an existing client and need help preparing your logo for email signatures, our template team can assist with optimization and setup.
For the best result, please share your logo in the SVG vector format:
- SVG
Our template team can:
- Export your logo at the correct size
- Optimize file size for email performance
- Ensure it renders clearly in Outlook
If you do not have an SVG file, please contact your graphic designer - Thanks.
Note: This service is not included during trial periods or for non-active accounts.
What you can expect
- Sharper logos in Outlook email signatures
- More consistent rendering across email clients
- Faster loading signatures
- A more professional and brand-consistent appearance
