LinkedIn Background Images: Size, Ideas & How to Change
Complete guide to LinkedIn background images in 2026. Get the right dimensions, design ideas, and step-by-step instructions to update your profile banner.
Your LinkedIn background image (also called the banner or cover photo) should be 1584 × 396 pixels with a 4:1 aspect ratio. This dimension ensures your background displays correctly across desktop, tablet, and mobile devices without awkward cropping.
A professional background image strengthens your personal brand and creates a positive first impression when people visit your profile.
Key Takeaways
- Optimal size is 1584 × 396 pixels with a 4:1 aspect ratio
- File format should be JPG or PNG under 8MB
- Keep important elements centered in a 1350 × 220 pixel safe zone
- Your profile photo overlaps the bottom left so avoid placing text there
- Update your background when changing roles or refreshing your brand
LinkedIn Background Image Specifications
According to LinkedIn's official image guidelines, here are the exact specifications:
Personal Profile Background
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Recommended size | 1584 × 396 pixels |
| Aspect ratio | 4:1 |
| Minimum size | 1000 × 250 pixels |
| Maximum file size | 8 MB |
| Supported formats | JPG, PNG, GIF |
Company Page Background
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Recommended size | 1128 × 191 pixels |
| Aspect ratio | ~6:1 |
| Maximum file size | 8 MB |
| Supported formats | JPG, PNG |
Why Dimensions Matter
Using incorrect dimensions causes:
- Too small: Pixelation and blurriness
- Too large: LinkedIn crops important content
- Wrong ratio: Distorted or stretched appearance
LinkedIn automatically resizes uploads to fit, often cutting off edges or compressing quality. Starting with exact dimensions gives you control over what appears.
Understanding the Safe Zone
Your profile photo covers part of your background image. On mobile devices, additional cropping occurs on the edges.
Desktop vs Mobile Display
| Element | Desktop Visible | Mobile Visible |
|---|---|---|
| Full width | Yes | Edges cropped |
| Bottom left area | Covered by profile photo | Covered more |
| Top portion | Full | May be reduced |
Safe Zone Dimensions
Keep critical content within the center 1350 × 220 pixels to ensure visibility on all devices. This includes:
- Text and messaging
- Logos or branding elements
- Important imagery
- Contact information
How to Change Your LinkedIn Background
Updating your background image takes less than a minute.
On Desktop
- Go to your LinkedIn profile
- Hover over your current background image
- Click the camera icon that appears
- Select "Change photo"
- Click "Upload photo" and select your image
- Adjust positioning if needed
- Click "Apply"
On Mobile App
- Open the LinkedIn app
- Tap your profile picture to view your profile
- Tap the camera icon on your background
- Select "Upload from photos" or "Take photo"
- Adjust cropping as needed
- Tap "Save"
Troubleshooting Upload Issues
Image won't upload:
- Check file size (under 8MB)
- Ensure JPG or PNG format
- Try a different browser
Image appears blurry:
- Upload higher resolution (1584 × 396 minimum)
- Avoid heavy JPEG compression
Image crops incorrectly:
- Redesign with safe zone in mind
- Center important elements
LinkedIn Background Image Ideas
Your background should reinforce your professional identity without being distracting.
Professional Textures
Abstract backgrounds work universally:
- Gradient meshes in brand colors
- Geometric patterns
- Subtle textures (paper, fabric, wood grain)
- Minimalist line art
Industry Imagery
Relevant stock photos signal your expertise:
- Technology: Circuit boards, code, data visualizations
- Finance: City skylines, abstract charts
- Healthcare: Medical imagery, wellness themes
- Marketing: Creative tools, campaign elements
- Real estate: Property photos, architectural elements
Personal Branding
Make your background an extension of your brand:
- Company logo with supporting graphics
- Color scheme matching your website
- Professional photo of you speaking or working
- Tagline or value proposition
Achievement Displays
Showcase credibility:
- "As featured in..." with publication logos
- Conference speaker images
- Award recognitions
- Client logo collections (with permission)
Free Tools for Creating LinkedIn Backgrounds
You don't need design skills to create professional backgrounds.
Canva (Recommended)
Canva's LinkedIn banner maker offers:
- Pre-sized templates (correct dimensions)
- Drag-and-drop editing
- Free stock photos and graphics
- Export in high quality
Adobe Express
Adobe Express provides:
- Professional templates
- Brand kit integration
- Free tier available
- Mobile editing
Stock Photo Sources
Free high-quality images for backgrounds:
Best Practices for LinkedIn Backgrounds
Do's
✅ Use high-resolution images (1584 × 396 or larger) ✅ Keep designs simple and professional ✅ Ensure colors complement your profile photo ✅ Test appearance on mobile before finalizing ✅ Update when your professional focus changes
Don'ts
❌ Include contact information (use designated profile fields) ❌ Use busy patterns that distract from content ❌ Place important elements in crop zones ❌ Use low-quality or pixelated images ❌ Copy others' branded backgrounds
LinkedIn Background vs Banner vs Cover Photo
These terms all refer to the same element:
- Background image: Technical term
- Banner: Marketing/design term
- Cover photo: Social media term (borrowed from Facebook)
Regardless of the name, the specifications remain:
- 1584 × 396 pixels
- 4:1 aspect ratio
- JPG or PNG format
- Under 8 MB
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best LinkedIn background image size?
The best LinkedIn background image size is 1584 × 396 pixels with a 4:1 aspect ratio. This dimension displays correctly on all devices without cropping or distortion. Keep important elements within the center 1350 × 220 pixel safe zone.
How do I change my LinkedIn background on my phone?
Open the LinkedIn mobile app, tap your profile picture to view your profile, then tap the camera icon on your background image. Select "Upload from photos" to choose an image from your device, adjust the cropping, and tap "Save" to apply.
Why is my LinkedIn background blurry?
LinkedIn background images appear blurry when uploaded at low resolution. Ensure your image is at least 1584 × 396 pixels before uploading. Also avoid heavy JPEG compression, which degrades quality. Use PNG format for sharper text and graphics.
Can I use the same background on LinkedIn as other social media?
You can use similar branding, but dimensions differ by platform. LinkedIn backgrounds (1584 × 396) have a different aspect ratio than Facebook covers (820 × 312) or Twitter headers (1500 × 500). Create platform-specific versions for optimal display.
Should my LinkedIn background match my company's branding?
If you represent your company professionally, brand alignment makes sense. However, personal profiles can also reflect individual expertise. Balance company affiliation with your personal brand, especially if you're open to opportunities outside your current role.
How Your Background Supports Professional Authority
Your LinkedIn background is one element of a complete profile optimization strategy. Combined with a strong headline, compelling about section, and consistent content, it contributes to the authority that attracts inbound opportunities.
ConnectSafely.ai helps you build comprehensive LinkedIn authority that goes beyond profile optimization. Our platform enables the strategic engagement that turns profile visitors into qualified leads who reach out to you.
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