QR Code Generator

Generate and download QR codes for URLs, text, or any content. Customize colors and error correction levels for optimal scanning performance.

Higher levels allow the QR code to be read even if partially damaged or obscured.

What is a QR Code?

A QR Code (Quick Response Code) is a two-dimensional barcode that can store various types of information such as text, URLs, phone numbers, or other data. QR codes can be quickly scanned by smartphones, tablets, and dedicated QR code readers to instantly access the encoded information.

Originally developed in 1994 for tracking automotive parts, QR codes have become widely used for marketing, payments, authentication, and information sharing due to their fast readability and large storage capacity compared to traditional barcodes.

What can I encode in a QR Code?

QR codes can encode various types of data including:

  • URLs and Websites - Direct users to web pages, social media profiles, or online content
  • Plain Text - Any text information, messages, or instructions
  • Contact Information - Phone numbers, email addresses, or vCard data
  • WiFi Credentials - Network name and password for easy connection
  • SMS Messages - Pre-filled text messages with recipient numbers
  • Email Addresses - mailto links with optional subject and body text
  • Geographic Locations - GPS coordinates or addresses for mapping applications

What do the error correction levels mean?

Error correction levels determine how much of the QR code can be damaged or obscured while still remaining readable:

  • Low (L) - Can recover from about 7% damage. Best for clean, controlled environments.
  • Medium (M) - Can recover from about 15% damage. Good balance for most applications.
  • Quartile (Q) - Can recover from about 25% damage. Better for outdoor or rough handling.
  • High (H) - Can recover from about 30% damage. Best for harsh environments or when partial obscuring is likely.

Higher error correction levels create larger QR codes with more data redundancy, so choose the level that best matches your intended use case.

How do I scan a QR Code?

Most modern smartphones can scan QR codes without additional apps:

  • iPhone (iOS 11+) - Open the Camera app and point it at the QR code. A notification will appear with the content.
  • Android - Open the Camera app or Google Assistant, point at the QR code. Many Android phones have built-in QR scanning in their camera apps.
  • Dedicated Apps - Download QR code scanner apps from app stores for additional features like scan history and batch processing.
  • Web Browsers - Some browsers like Chrome and Edge have built-in QR code scanning capabilities.

For best scanning results, ensure good lighting, hold the device steady, and position the QR code within the camera's viewfinder.

What are the best practices for QR Code design?

Follow these best practices to ensure your QR codes scan reliably:

  • Contrast - Use high contrast between foreground and background colors (dark on light works best)
  • Size - Minimum size of 2x2 cm (0.8x0.8 inches) for print, larger for distance scanning
  • Quiet Zone - Leave white space around the QR code (at least 4 modules wide)
  • Testing - Always test your QR codes on multiple devices before deploying
  • Content Length - Shorter content creates simpler, more scannable QR codes
  • Print Quality - Use high-resolution images for printing to avoid pixelation