QR codes made a huge comeback after 2020. Today, they're used for restaurant menus, event check-ins, business cards, product packaging, and mobile payments.
This guide explains what QR codes are, how to create them, and the best practices for using them.
What Is a QR Code?
A QR (Quick Response) code is a 2D barcode that stores data — text, URLs, phone numbers, Wi-Fi credentials, and more. Any smartphone camera can scan them.
Unlike traditional barcodes, QR codes:
- Store much more data (up to ~2,900 bytes)
- Work at any angle
- Can include error correction to remain readable even if partially damaged
What Can You Put in a QR Code?
- URLs — link to websites, apps, or forms
- Text — notes, instructions, addresses
- vCard — contact info for phones
- Wi-Fi — auto-connect to networks
- Phone numbers — click to call
- Email — pre-filled message
- SMS — pre-filled text message
- Crypto wallets — payment addresses
How to Create a QR Code
Use our free QR code generator:
- Enter the content (URL, text, etc.)
- Choose size (200-500 px)
- Choose error correction level (L / M / Q / H)
- Click "Generate"
- Download the PNG
Everything is generated in your browser — nothing is uploaded.
Choosing the Right Error Correction Level
| Level | Damage Tolerance | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| L (Low) | ~7% | Clean digital screens |
| M (Medium) | ~15% | General purpose (recommended) |
| Q (Quartile) | ~25% | Print with moderate handling |
| H (High) | ~30% | Outdoor, packaging, wear-prone areas |
If you're printing on something that gets handled a lot, use H.
Best Practices for QR Codes
1. Test Before Printing
Always scan the QR code with multiple phones before mass printing. Different phone models handle QR codes differently.
2. Use Short URLs
Shorter URLs produce simpler QR codes, which are easier to scan. Use our URL shortener to make the URL shorter before generating the code.
3. Ensure Good Contrast
Dark foreground on light background works best. Avoid inverted colors or low-contrast combos.
4. Minimum Size
For printed QR codes:
- Business card: at least 2 cm × 2 cm
- Flyer: at least 3 cm × 3 cm
- Poster: at least 5 cm × 5 cm
5. Include a Call-to-Action
Tell users what happens when they scan: "Scan to view menu," "Scan for 10% off," etc.
6. Avoid Placing Too Close to Other QR Codes
Give each code enough whitespace so scanners don't get confused.
Common QR Code Uses
- Restaurants — digital menus
- Business cards — instant contact save
- Product packaging — instruction videos, warranty registration
- Events — check-in, agenda download
- Retail — product info, reviews
- Payments — WeChat Pay, Alipay, crypto
- Wi-Fi — auto-connect for guests
Are QR Codes Free?
Yes, if you generate them yourself. Our QR code generator is completely free, with:
- No watermark
- No sign-up
- No scan limits
- No expiration
Beware of "free" QR code services that charge for analytics or require a subscription to keep the code active — those use redirect URLs, so if you stop paying, the code stops working.
Our tool generates standard QR codes with no redirect — they work forever.
Try It Now
Use our free QR code generator — no sign-up, no watermark, download instantly.
Need to shorten the URL first? Try our URL shortener.
Summary
- QR codes store up to ~2,900 bytes of data
- Use error correction level M for most cases; H for wear-prone printing
- Always test before mass printing
- Free QR generators that don't require redirects are best for permanence