QR Code Generator
Create QR codes for text, URLs, contact info, WiFi passwords, and more. Generate customizable QR codes with different sizes and error correction levels.
How to Use the QR Code Generator
- Enter Content: Type or paste the text, URL, or data you want to encode
- Choose Size: Select the QR code dimensions that fit your needs
- Set Error Correction: Pick the appropriate error correction level
- Generate Code: Click the generate button to create your QR code
- Download: Save the QR code as PNG, SVG, or other formats
QR Code Basics
What Are QR Codes?
QR (Quick Response) codes are two-dimensional barcodes that store information in black and white squares. Smartphones and cameras can scan them instantly to access websites, connect to WiFi, save contact information, or display text. They can hold up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters, far more than traditional barcodes.
How They Work
QR codes encode data in a grid pattern. The three large squares in the corners help scanners orient and align the code. Error correction codes allow the QR code to remain scannable even if partially damaged or obscured. Higher error correction means more redundancy but requires a larger code.
Error Correction Levels
L (Low) - 7% damage recovery, smallest code size. M (Medium) - 15% recovery, balanced option. Q (Quartile) - 25% recovery, good for printed materials. H (High) - 30% recovery, best for codes that might get damaged. Higher levels create larger, more complex codes.
Common QR Code Uses
Business and Marketing
- Website links on business cards, flyers, and posters
- Product packaging for quick access to manuals or videos
- Restaurant menus for contactless ordering
- Event tickets and registration check-ins
Personal and Technical
- WiFi network credentials for easy guest access
- Contact cards (vCard) for quick phone number saves
- Payment links for mobile transactions
- App download links for iOS and Android
QR Code Best Practices
Design Tips
- Maintain high contrast - black on white works best
- Leave quiet zone (white border) around the code
- Make codes large enough for easy scanning (minimum 2x2 cm)
- Use higher error correction for outdoor or printed codes
- Test scans on multiple devices before printing
Common Mistakes
- Making codes too small or complex to scan reliably
- Using low contrast colors that scanners can't read
- Placing codes on curved, reflective, or wrinkled surfaces
- Encoding very long URLs without using a URL shortener
- Not testing the destination link before distribution
Frequently Asked Questions
How much data can a QR code hold?
QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or 7,089 numeric digits. However, practical limits are much lower for reliable scanning. URLs over 200 characters create very dense codes that are hard to scan. Use URL shorteners for long links.
Can I customize QR code colors?
Yes, but maintain sufficient contrast between foreground and background. Dark colors on light backgrounds work best. Avoid light-colored codes on dark backgrounds as most scanners struggle with inverted codes. Test thoroughly on different devices before finalizing custom colors.
Do QR codes expire?
The QR code itself never expires. However, the destination URL or content might become unavailable. Static QR codes (with embedded data) work forever. Dynamic QR codes (pointing to URLs) depend on the linked content remaining accessible.
What's the best size for printing QR codes?
Minimum 2x2 cm (0.8x0.8 inches) for close-range scanning. For posters or signs viewed from distance, calculate: code size = scanning distance / 10. A code scanned from 2 meters should be at least 20 cm across. Always include white space around the code.
Can damaged QR codes still work?
Yes, thanks to error correction. L level recovers from 7% damage, M from 15%, Q from 25%, and H from 30%. The damage includes dirt, scratches, or partially covered areas. Higher error correction creates larger codes but ensures better reliability.