PNG
Best default for sharp type, logos and flat-color graphics; files can be larger for photographic backgrounds.
Dimensions with publishing context
Choose an OG image size that survives real link cards
Start with a dependable cross-platform canvas, protect important content from edge crops and choose a format based on the artwork—not habit.
Why 1200×630 is the practical default
A 1200×630 image has a 1.91:1 aspect ratio and is a durable starting point for large Open Graph cards. It provides enough source detail without implying that every platform renders the same crop.
Treat the canvas as a master asset, not a promise of pixel-perfect output. Keep the headline, logo and faces inside a generous safe area because cards, devices and experiments can trim the edges.
Common social image starting points
Use each row for its named placement; profile headers and feed cards are different assets.
| Placement | Starting size | Aspect ratio | Practical note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Graph link card | 1200×630 | 1.91:1 | Strong cross-platform master for page sharing |
| Minimum practical size | 600×315 | 1.90:1 | Usable at the same intended shape, but softer on high-density screens and not the preferred master |
| Square social post | 1200×1200 | 1:1 | Useful for feed artwork, not a direct OG replacement |
| X profile header | 1500×500 | 3:1 | Design separately; do not stretch a link card |
| LinkedIn company cover | 1128×191 | 5.91:1 | A cover placement with very different cropping |
PNG, JPEG and WebP tradeoffs
JPEG
Efficient for photos and textured artwork; avoid aggressive compression around small text and logos.
WebP
Often combines strong quality and smaller files, but confirm every CMS, CDN and destination in your workflow supports it.
Size and safe-area preflight
A larger retina-style export does not create a new layout ratio; it only increases source pixels.
- Use 1200×630 or another intentional 1.91:1 canvas for the main OG asset.
- Keep essential text, logos and faces away from all four edges.
- Check the image at small card size, where fine text and subtle contrast disappear.
- Export a 2× retina version only when your pipeline needs more source detail; preserve the same ratio.
- Verify the final public URL, media type and file accessibility after deployment.
Sizing FAQ
OG image size questions
Recommendations, ratios and export decisions without false universal rules.
Is 1200×630 mandatory on every platform?
No. It is a widely useful Open Graph default. Platforms accept and crop assets differently, so verify the placements that matter to your audience.
Does a 2× retina export fix a poor crop?
No. More pixels can improve source detail but do not change the composition or aspect ratio. Safe spacing and a clear hierarchy matter more.
Should text-heavy cards use JPEG?
PNG is usually safer for crisp type and flat graphics. JPEG can work when a photographic background makes file size the stronger constraint.
Plan, preview and publish
Put the dimensions into practice
Open the generator on a 1200×630 canvas, or create source artwork with the AI image generator.