Create QR codes for URLs, text, email, phone, WiFi, SMS, and contacts. Customize size and colors, then download as PNG. Free, instant, no signup required.
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What Is a QR Code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that can store text, URLs, contact information, and other data. It was invented in 1994 by Masahiro Hara at Denso Wave. Modern smartphones can read QR codes with their built-in camera app without any additional software. QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters depending on the error correction level.
This generator supports eight QR code types: URL links, plain text, email addresses, phone numbers, SMS messages, WiFi network credentials, vCard contacts, and geographic coordinates. Each type uses the correct data format specification, which ensures maximum compatibility with all major QR scanner apps.
QR Code Types and Their Data Formats
| Type | Data Format | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| URL | Plain URL with https:// | Website links, landing pages, product pages |
| Text | Plain UTF-8 text | Short messages, codes, instructions |
| mailto:address?subject=...&body=... | Pre-filled email contact forms | |
| Phone | tel:+phonenumber | Business cards, click-to-call |
| SMS | SMSTO:number:message | Support, opt-in keywords, shortcodes |
| WiFi | WIFI:T:WPA;S:ssid;P:pass;; | Guest network credentials in hotels, cafes |
| Contact (vCard) | BEGIN:VCARD...END:VCARD | Business cards, conference networking |
| Location | geo:latitude,longitude | Maps, event venues, delivery addresses |
Error Correction Levels Explained
Error correction in QR codes is a built-in redundancy that allows the code to be read even if part of it is damaged or obscured. Higher correction means denser, more complex codes but more resilience to damage.
- L (Low, 7% recovery): Smallest, simplest QR code. Use for digital screens where damage is unlikely.
- M (Medium, 15% recovery): Good balance for most uses. Recommended for general print materials.
- Q (Quartile, 25% recovery): Use when printing on materials exposed to light wear or when adding a logo overlay to the center of the QR code.
- H (High, 30% recovery): Best for outdoor signage, packaging, or anywhere the code may get partially obscured, dirty, or worn.
QR Code Size Guidelines for Print
The minimum reliable scan size is approximately 2 cm x 2 cm at a reading distance of 20 cm. For common use cases:
- Business cards: 2 to 3 cm. Download at 400px minimum.
- Flyers and brochures: 3 to 5 cm. Download at 600px.
- Posters (A3 or larger): 5 to 10 cm. Download at 1000px.
- Outdoor banners: At least 1/10th the expected viewing distance. A 3-metre read distance needs a 30 cm code. Download at 1000px and scale up in your design software.
- Digital screens: 200px is sufficient for web display at standard screen resolutions.
Color contrast tip: Always maintain high contrast between the dark modules (foreground) and light background. Black on white is the most universally scannable combination. If using brand colors, test the colored QR code with multiple scanning apps before printing. Never use similar tones for foreground and background as this will prevent scanning entirely.
WiFi QR Code: Share Network Access Without Sharing the Password
A WiFi QR code encodes your network name (SSID), security type (WPA2, WPA3, WEP, or open), and password in a single scannable code. When a visitor scans it, their phone offers to join the network automatically without them needing to type the password. This format is supported natively on iOS 11 and Android 10 and later with no app required.
vCard QR Codes for Business Cards
A vCard QR code encodes your full contact information using the vCard 3.0 format. When scanned, the phone offers to save the contact directly to the address book. This replaces manually typing contact details from a business card and reduces the chance of errors. Include your full name, organization, job title, phone, email, and website for maximum utility.
Frequently Asked Questions
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