QR Code Generator
Create QR codes for URLs, text, contact information, and more. Customize size and error correction level.
Higher error correction levels allow the QR code to remain readable even if part of it is damaged or obscured, but increase the code size.
Enter text above to generate a QR code
Table of Contents
What is a QR Code?
QR (Quick Response) codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store various types of data, including text, URLs, contact information, and more. They were invented in 1994 by Denso Wave, a Japanese automotive company, and have since become widely used for marketing, payments, and information sharing.
QR codes can be scanned quickly using smartphones and cameras, making them an efficient way to transfer information without typing. They're commonly used in advertising, product packaging, business cards, and digital payments.
How it Works
QR codes use a grid of black and white squares to encode data. The pattern is read by scanning devices (like smartphone cameras) which decode the information. The code contains:
- Finder Patterns: Three squares in the corners help scanners locate the code
- Alignment Patterns: Help correct for distortion and angle
- Timing Patterns: Help determine the size of the data matrix
- Data Area: Contains the encoded information
- Error Correction: Redundant data that allows the code to be read even if damaged
Error Correction Levels
QR codes include error correction data that allows them to be read even if part of the code is damaged, dirty, or obscured. There are four levels:
L - Low (~7% recovery)
Best for clean environments where the QR code will be printed clearly and protected. Uses the least space.
M - Medium (~15% recovery)
Good balance between size and reliability. Recommended for most general use cases.
Q - Quartile (~25% recovery)
Better for codes that might be partially obscured or in less-than-ideal conditions.
H - High (~30% recovery)
Maximum error correction. Use when the QR code might be damaged, dirty, or partially covered. Results in a larger code.
Common Use Cases
- URLs: Link to websites, landing pages, or online content
- Contact Information: vCard format for business cards
- Wi-Fi Credentials: Share network name and password
- Text Messages: Pre-filled SMS with recipient and message
- Email: Pre-filled email with recipient, subject, and body
- Product Information: Link to product pages, manuals, or reviews
- Event Tickets: Digital tickets for concerts, flights, or events
- Payment: Cryptocurrency addresses or payment links
- App Downloads: Direct links to app stores
Best Practices
Size Matters
Make sure your QR code is large enough to be scanned easily. A minimum of 2cm x 2cm (0.8" x 0.8") is recommended for print, and larger for digital displays viewed from a distance.
Contrast is Key
Use high contrast between the QR code and background. Black on white is ideal. Avoid placing codes on busy backgrounds or using low-contrast color combinations.
Test Before Printing
Always test your QR code with multiple devices and scanning apps before printing or publishing. Different scanners may have varying levels of tolerance.
Keep it Simple
Shorter URLs and text result in simpler QR codes that are easier to scan. Use URL shorteners if needed, but ensure they're reliable and won't expire.
Provide Context
Include text near the QR code explaining what it does. Users are more likely to scan if they know what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
QR codes can store various types of data including text, URLs, email addresses, phone numbers, SMS messages, contact information (vCard), Wi-Fi credentials, and more. The maximum capacity depends on the data type and error correction level.
The capacity varies by data type: up to 7,089 numeric characters, 4,296 alphanumeric characters, or 2,953 bytes of binary data. However, longer data results in more complex codes that may be harder to scan.
For most use cases, Medium (M) is recommended. Use Low (L) for clean, protected environments where space is limited. Use High (H) for codes that might be damaged, dirty, or partially obscured.
While this tool generates standard black and white QR codes, many QR code generators allow color customization. However, maintain high contrast for reliable scanning. Dark codes on light backgrounds work best.
Yes! QR codes are free to use. The technology is in the public domain, and there are no licensing fees or restrictions on their use.
QR codes themselves don't expire, but the content they link to might. For example, if a QR code links to a URL that's later removed, the code will still work but lead to a broken link. Ensure your linked content remains accessible.
Most modern smartphones have built-in QR code scanners in their camera apps. Simply open your camera app and point it at the QR code. Many phones will automatically detect and offer to open the link or display the content.
This tool generates static QR codes that don't include tracking. To track scans, you would need to use a URL shortener with analytics or a QR code service that provides tracking features. The QR code itself doesn't track usage.