Step 1 — Choose the Right QR Code Type
Every QR code encodes a specific data format. Selecting the correct type ensures the scanner's operating system responds with the right action — opening a browser, joining a WiFi network, or saving a contact.
Supported QR code types and their scan behaviour
| Type | Action on Scan | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| URL | Opens a web page | Marketing, packaging, menus |
| WiFi | Joins a network automatically | Cafés, offices, hotels |
| vCard | Saves a contact card | Business cards, name badges |
| Opens a pre-filled email | Customer support, feedback | |
| SMS | Opens a pre-filled text message | Promotions, opt-in campaigns |
| Phone | Initiates a call | Emergency contacts, storefronts |
| Event | Adds a calendar event | Conferences, webinars |
| Location | Opens a map at coordinates | Wayfinding, event venues |
Not Sure Which Type?
Step 2 — Enter and Validate Your Data
Each type has a dedicated input form that validates your data before encoding it. For example, the WiFi form checks that you have selected a security type (WPA2, WPA3, or Open) and that the password meets minimum length requirements.
The live preview renders as you type. Shorter data produces simpler QR patterns with fewer modules, which improves scan reliability at small sizes. Keep URLs under 100 characters when possible.
Step 3 — Customise the Design
A QR code does not have to be black-and-white. You can customise:
- Foreground and background colours — maintain a minimum 4:1 contrast ratio for reliable scanning.
- Logo overlay — place your brand mark in the centre. The error correction system compensates for the obscured modules.
- Dot style — choose from square, rounded, or dot patterns.
- Corner style — adjust the finder pattern shape to match your visual identity.
Key Insight
Step 4 — Test Before You Print
Before committing a QR code to print, verify it works. Use our Quality Test tool to check:
- Contrast ratio — does the colour combination pass the 4:1 threshold?
- Module clarity — are the modules sharp and distinct at the intended print size?
- Scan speed — does the code decode within one second on a standard phone camera?
Common Mistake
Step 5 — Export and Deploy
Choose the format that fits your use case:
Export format comparison
| Format | Resolution | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| PNG | Up to 4096 px | Screens, social media, email |
| SVG | Infinite (vector) | Business cards, signage, packaging |
| Infinite (vector) | Documents, brochures, flyers |
Deployment Checklist
- Scan the exported file from a physical print or on-screen mockup.
- Verify the destination URL loads correctly on mobile.
- Ensure a minimum quiet zone (white border) of 4 modules around the code.
- If printing on coloured material, check contrast under ambient lighting.
Pro Tips for Professional Results
Use Redirects for Flexibility
Static QR codes cannot be edited after generation. Encode a URL on your own domain (e.g., yourdomain.com/qr/menu) that you can redirect later. This gives you the flexibility of a dynamic code without third-party dependencies.
Print Size Rule of Thumb
The minimum print size depends on the scan distance. A reliable guideline is the 10:1 ratio: for every 10 cm of viewing distance, the QR code should be at least 1 cm wide. A business card code (scanned from ~15 cm) needs to be at least 1.5 cm; a poster code (scanned from 2 m) should be at least 20 cm.
Did You Know?
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