QR code generator

QR (Quick Response) is a type of 2D barcode invented in 1994 by Denso Wave. It can store up to ~3,000 alphanumeric characters. The black-and-white square modules encode the data, and three finder patterns in the corners allow it to be read in any orientation.

QR codes have four error correction levels based on Reed-Solomon codes: L (7%), M (15%), Q (25%) and H (30%). The percentage indicates how much of the code can be damaged or obscured and still be read. If you plan to print the QR on a surface or embed a logo on top, use level H.

It depends on the correction level and the data type. For alphanumeric text at level M: up to ~2,300 characters. For short URLs (under 100 characters) the QR will be small and dense. The more content, the higher the module density and the harder it is to scan at small sizes — use shortened URLs for printed QR codes.

For paper printing, a 256×256 px QR is fine for on-screen or digital use. For print quality, use at least 512×512 px or, better, 1024×1024 px for large formats (posters, cards, packaging). The recommended minimum printed size is 2×2 cm — below that, phone scanners struggle to read them.

A QR code can encode virtually any text: URLs, plain text, phone numbers (tel: prefix), email addresses (mailto: prefix), SMS, GPS coordinates, vCard or mecard contact data, Wi-Fi credentials (SSID + password + encryption type) and iCal calendar events. Modern readers on iOS and Android automatically recognise these schemes and offer contextual actions: call, add contact, connect to Wi-Fi, open in maps, etc.

Static QR codes (like those generated by this tool) never expire. The content is encoded directly in the QR modules; as long as a reader can scan them, the code works forever. Dynamic QR codes (from platforms like Bitly or QR Tiger) can be deactivated or redirected because they point to an intermediate URL. Their downside is dependency on an external service: if the provider shuts down or becomes paid-only, any printed QR code stops working.

Restaurants and cafés use it to create contactless digital menus accessible from the table. Shops and physical stores use it to direct customers to their online catalogue, payment page, or social media profile with a single scan. Marketing professionals use it to connect printed materials (leaflets, posters, business cards) to campaign landing pages or registration forms. Event organisers use it for digital tickets, attendee check-in, or to give WiFi access without displaying the password in plain text. Teachers and educators use it to link additional resources, surveys, or activities from printed handouts or whiteboards. Freelancers and independent professionals include it on business cards so contacts can be added directly to a client's phone with one scan.

On desktop, press Ctrl + D (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + D (Mac) in Chrome, Firefox, or Edge to add this page to your bookmarks instantly. In Safari for Mac, use Cmd + D or go to Bookmarks → Add Bookmark. On mobile with Chrome (Android), tap the three-dot menu (⋮) and choose "Add to Home screen" or "Add to bookmarks." On mobile with Safari (iPhone/iPad), tap the share button (□↑) and then "Add to Home Screen." Once on your home screen it is available in seconds to generate a QR anywhere, without even searching for the URL.