Generate QR Codes Instantly
Create custom QR codes for free. Our QR code generator converts any text, URL, or data into a scannable QR code that works with any smartphone camera or QR reader app.
What is a QR Code?
QR (Quick Response) codes are two-dimensional barcodes that store information in a square grid of black and white squares. Invented in 1994 by Denso Wave for Toyota, QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters.
Common Uses for QR Codes
- URLs: Direct users to websites, landing pages, or online menus
- Contact Information: Share vCard details instantly
- WiFi Access: Connect to networks without typing passwords
- Payment: Mobile payment systems like Venmo, PayPal, cryptocurrency
- Marketing: Product information, promotional campaigns, coupons
- Events: Tickets, check-ins, registration
- Authentication: Two-factor authentication, secure login
- Documents: Link to PDFs, forms, or downloadable content
QR Code Best Practices
- Test Before Printing: Always scan your QR code before mass production
- Size Matters: Minimum 2cm x 2cm for reliable scanning
- Contrast: Dark colors on light backgrounds work best
- Quiet Zone: Leave white space around the QR code
- Error Correction: Higher levels allow damage tolerance but increase size
- URL Shorteners: Shorter URLs create simpler QR codes
QR Code Error Correction Levels
- Level L (Low): 7% damage recovery - smaller code, less damage tolerance
- Level M (Medium): 15% recovery - balanced approach
- Level Q (Quartile): 25% recovery - good for moderate damage
- Level H (High): 30% recovery - best for logos or damaged surfaces
How to Scan QR Codes
- Open your smartphone camera app (iOS 11+ and Android 8+ have built-in scanning)
- Point camera at the QR code
- Tap the notification that appears
- Alternatively, use a dedicated QR scanner app
QR Code Security Tips
- Verify the Source: Only scan QR codes from trusted sources
- Preview URLs: Check the URL before visiting unknown sites
- Avoid Stickers: Malicious QR codes can be placed over legitimate ones
- Use Security Software: QR scanner apps with malware protection
- Don't Auto-Open: Preview the action before executing
Creative QR Code Applications
- Restaurant digital menus (contactless ordering)
- Museum exhibits with additional information
- Business cards with full contact details
- Product packaging with instructions or videos
- Real estate signs with virtual tours
- Gravestone memorials linking to online tributes
- Pet tags with owner contact information
QR Code vs Barcode
- Storage: QR codes hold 100x more data than traditional barcodes
- Direction: QR codes can be scanned from any angle
- Error Correction: QR codes work even when partially damaged
- Speed: QR codes scan faster than linear barcodes
- Data Types: QR codes support text, URLs, binary data; barcodes only numbers
Privacy Note: QR codes generated on this page are created locally in your browser and are never uploaded to any server. Your data remains completely private.