Flat / PNG hosting
PNG hosting: share transparent images with a URL
Publish PNG files from your browser or the CLI. Share logos, screenshots, and transparent graphics without converting them to another format.
Checking your upload limits... · Public · Limits
Drop your PNG files here
or choose them from your device.
Select PNG filesWhat people see at your PNG link
Transparent areas remain transparent. Flat's image viewer shows a checkerboard behind the image so readers can inspect its edges and empty areas.
The PNG keeps its original pixels and alpha channel. Zoom and actual-size controls help readers examine screenshots, labels, and other detailed graphics.
A single image opens in Flat's viewer. Several files open in the explorer. Public links need no Flat account, and original downloads stay available.
The exact path /badge.png serves the original image. Use the main link for the viewer, or the exact image URL when embedding a browser-compatible image on your website.
How to upload PNG files and get a URL
Prepare your images
Export a PNG with transparency enabled if your artwork needs it. A white background saved into the image will remain white; hosting does not remove backgrounds.
Check dimensions and file size before uploading. Large screenshots and high-resolution graphics can produce large PNG files. Resize or optimize them in your own tool if needed.
Publish from your browser or terminal
In your browserDrop, publish, copy the link.
Drop your finished images into the uploader above, or choose them from your device. Enter your email if signed out, then choose "Publish images".
Each file needs a unique name. Selected files publish at the top level. Use the CLI for folders; the browser uploader does not accept folders or extract ZIPs.
TerminalNode.js 20+One command. Files or folders.
npx -y @getflat/cli deploy ./badge.pngReplace the example path with your file, or pass a folder path to publish several images. The CLI preserves relative paths and prints the published URL.
Open and share the URL
Check transparent edges in the viewer, then open the original PNG. If you embed it on a website, check it against that page's background too.
Signed-out uploads expire after 1 hour by default. Sign in before expiry to keep them online, or sign in before publishing for no default expiry.
What you can share with PNG hosting
- Logos and transparent assets
- Send an exported logo or badge that can sit on another background. Recipients can download the original PNG for their own layouts.
- Screenshots for review
- Share interface screenshots with readable text. The viewer lets recipients inspect details at actual size.
- Charts and diagrams
- Publish a finished diagram with crisp lines. Use its direct PNG URL in documentation or a report that supports external images.
Keep a version, or keep an address.
Share this version
Every upload gets its own link. Publishing revised files creates a new link and leaves the earlier version unchanged. Use the version link when someone needs to review a specific upload.
Update files at one address
Use a named onflat.page address or your own domain. Sign in, then publish with the CLI using --domain. Publish revised files with the same domain to point that address to the new upload.
Named addresses are included on Free. Adding your own domain requires a paid plan. The browser uploader does not set up or repoint these addresses.
PNG hosting questions
Is hosting free, and what are the limits?
Yes. Signed-in Free includes 5 MiB per upload, 1 GiB of storage, and 5 GiB of monthly transfer, with no default expiry. The per-upload limit covers all files in that upload. Paid plans raise these limits.
Do readers need a Flat account?
No. Public links open without a Flat account. Anyone with the link can open the uploaded files. Password-protected links also require the visitor password.
Can I password-protect my upload?
Yes. Password protection is available on every plan. Add --password YOUR_PASSWORD to your CLI deploy command. It protects access to the upload and its files, but does not prevent someone with access from saving a copy. The browser uploader creates public uploads.
Can I replace files without changing the link?
A version link always refers to its original upload. For same-address updates, use a named address or your own domain. Publish revised files with the same --domain value in the CLI to point that address to the new upload.
What happens when an upload expires?
Flat stops serving it. An expired upload cannot be recovered. Signed-out uploads expire after 1 hour by default. For browser uploads, use the sign-in link shown after publishing. For CLI uploads, run npx -y @getflat/cli login. Complete sign-in before expiry to keep the upload online. If you chose a shorter expiry in the CLI, that deadline stays in place.
Will my PNG keep its transparent background?
Yes, if the uploaded PNG contains transparency. Flat preserves the file. The checkerboard is part of the viewer, not a background added to your download.
Does Flat convert PNG to JPG?
No. Your PNG remains a PNG. If you need a different format, convert it in your own image tool before publishing.
Can I use a hosted PNG in HTML?
Yes. Use a public upload's exact PNG URL as the image source:
<img src="https://YOUR-ADDRESS.onflat.page/badge.png" alt="Field notes badge" />The main upload URL opens the viewer rather than serving image bytes.
How large can an image preview be?
Flat's viewer accepts image files up to 5 MiB. The browser must also be able to decode the image. Paid plans allow larger uploads, but do not raise the viewer's preview limit. Original files remain available to open or download when a preview is unavailable.
Another image format?
Find the guide for your next image.
Share your PNG files.
Publish your finished images, check the result, and copy the link.
Publish imagesFree to start · View pricing