QR Code Generator

Free QR Code Generator - Create Custom QR Codes Instantly

Generate QR codes for links, text, Wi-Fi credentials, contact information, or any data you need to share. Customize colors and resolution, then download a high-quality PNG ready for printing on posters, menus, business cards, packaging, or digital media. QR codes are generated in your browser and never expire since they encode your data directly.

What QR Codes Can Encode

QR codes can contain any text, but certain formats trigger specific actions on scanning devices. URLs open in the browser. Wi-Fi credentials auto-connect the scanner's device to your network. Phone numbers initiate a call. Email addresses open a new compose window. SMS formats pre-fill a text message. vCard data adds contact information to the phone's address book.

The maximum data capacity depends on the content type and error correction level. For plain text, QR codes support up to approximately 4,296 alphanumeric characters. For practical use, keep your content as short as possible - shorter URLs create simpler, more scannable QR codes.

How to Create a QR Code

Enter your content in the input field - a URL, text message, Wi-Fi password, or any data. The QR code generates instantly in the preview. Optionally customize the foreground and background colors to match your branding. Set the resolution (size in pixels) based on where you will use it. Download the PNG file and embed it in your materials.

For Wi-Fi sharing, use the format WIFI:T:WPA;S:YourNetworkName;P:YourPassword;; to generate a code that automatically connects scanners to your network. This is perfect for cafes, offices, and guest networks.

Best Practices for QR Codes

Always test your QR code by scanning it with a phone before printing. Use dark colors on light backgrounds for maximum scannability - the most reliable combination is black on white. Ensure sufficient size for the scanning distance: at least 2cm (0.8 inches) per side for close-up scanning, larger for posters and signage viewed from a distance.

Use URL shorteners for long links to reduce QR code complexity, which improves scanning reliability especially when printed small. Include a brief call-to-action near your QR code ("Scan for menu," "Scan to connect") so people know what they will get.

Color Customization Tips

While custom colors can match your brand, ensure high contrast between the foreground (modules) and background. QR scanners need to distinguish between dark and light modules. Avoid using similar brightness values for foreground and background, and never invert the standard (never use light foreground on dark background, as many scanners struggle with inverted codes).

Printing and Size Guidelines

For business cards: minimum 1.5cm (0.6 inches). For flyers and table tents: 2-3cm (1 inch). For posters: at least 3-5cm (1.5-2 inches). For billboards and signage: scale proportionally to viewing distance - the general rule is 10:1 scanning distance to QR code width.

Set the export resolution based on your print needs. For professional printing, use 300 DPI (dots per inch). If your QR code will be 2 inches wide at 300 DPI, you need at least 600 pixels. Generating at higher resolutions ensures crisp printing at any size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do QR codes expire? Static QR codes (like those generated here) never expire. They encode data directly, so as long as the encoded URL or content remains valid, the QR code works forever. Only dynamic QR codes from tracking services can be disabled.

Can I track how many times my QR code is scanned? Static QR codes do not have built-in tracking. To track scans, point the QR code to a URL with analytics (like a UTM-tagged link or a redirect through your analytics platform).

Will the QR code work if partially covered? QR codes include error correction that allows them to remain scannable even when partially damaged or obscured (up to 30% coverage depending on error correction level). However, for best reliability, keep the entire code visible and unobstructed.

Can I embed a logo in the center? This tool generates standard QR codes. Adding a logo to the center is possible with image editing software - the QR error correction typically allows a small center logo (under 15% of the total area) without breaking scannability. Test after adding any logo.