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QR Code Generator

Create QR codes for links, text, Wi-Fi and more, free to download.

What should the QR code open?
Colors and quality optional

When to use it

A QR code lets people open a link or share details by pointing their phone camera at it, with nothing to type. Use one on posters, flyers, restaurant tables, business cards, product packaging, event tickets, presentations and shop windows. The Wi-Fi option is especially handy for homes, cafés and offices: guests scan once and are connected.

How to make a QR code

  1. Under What should the QR code open?, choose a type:
    • Link or text: a web address or any short message.
    • Wi-Fi: enter the Network name, Password and Security type; tick Hidden network if it doesn’t broadcast its name.
    • Email: an Email address and optional Subject.
    • Phone: a Phone number to call.
  2. The QR code updates as you type. Scan it with your phone to check it works.
  3. Optionally open Colors and quality to change the Code color, Background and Error correction.
  4. Press Download PNG for everyday use or Download SVG for print.

A worked example

A café wants guests to join its Wi-Fi without asking staff. Choose Wi-Fi, type the network name “CornerCafe-Guest”, the password, and leave security on WPA/WPA2/WPA3. Scan the preview with a phone: it offers to join the network. Download the SVG, add it to a small table sign with the words “Scan to join our Wi-Fi”, and print it at least 3 cm wide.

Choosing error correction

Higher error correction lets a code scan even when part of it is dirty, scratched or covered, but it makes the pattern denser. Medium (recommended) suits most uses. Choose High or Highest for codes on stickers, outdoor signs or packaging that may get damaged.

Tips

  • Print it big enough. A good rule is at least 2 cm wide for every 20 cm of scanning distance; 3 cm minimum for tables and business cards.
  • Keep the quiet zone. Leave the white border around the code clear of text and graphics.
  • Shorten long links with fewer tracking parameters; shorter links make simpler, easier-to-scan codes.
  • Tell people what they’ll get: “Scan to see the menu” works better than a code on its own.

Common mistakes

  • Not testing before printing. Always scan the final file with two different phones.
  • Low contrast or inverted colors. Light codes on dark backgrounds fail on many phones.
  • Typos in links. The code faithfully encodes whatever you typed, mistakes included.
  • Using a screenshot instead of the download, which can be blurry when printed.

Private by design

The QR code is created in your browser. Your links and Wi-Fi passwords are never sent anywhere.

Add campaign tracking to your link first with the UTM Builder, or create product barcodes with the Barcode Generator.

Frequently asked questions

Do these QR codes expire?

No. The link or details are stored directly in the pattern, not on a server, so the code works for as long as the link itself works. There are no scan limits and no account.

Can I change the link after printing the code?

No, because the link is part of the pattern. If you might need to change it, point the code at a page you control and update that page instead.

How does the Wi-Fi QR code work?

Phone cameras on iPhone and Android recognize the Wi-Fi format and offer to join the network, so guests don't have to type the password. The password is stored in the code itself, so only show it to people you'd give the password to.

PNG or SVG?

PNG (1024 × 1024 pixels) works everywhere, from documents to social posts. SVG is a vector file that stays perfectly sharp at any size, which is best for print, signs and packaging.

Why won't my colored QR code scan?

Scanners need strong contrast between the pattern and the background. Use a dark code color on a light background, never the other way round, and avoid pale colors like yellow or light gray for the pattern.

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