How to use this QR code generator
- Type or paste the text or URL you want encoded.
- Adjust size and color if you want to brand the QR code.
- Click Download PNG for raster (printable) or Download SVG for scalable vector.
What is a QR code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned by any modern smartphone camera. It can store URLs, plain text, WiFi credentials, contact information, payment links, and more — all without needing a special app.
Why we are different from paid generators
Most QR-code services route you through a redirect URL they own. That gives them analytics and the ability to change the destination later — but it also means the QR code stops working if they shut down or you stop paying. We only generate static QR codes that encode your destination directly. They work forever, with no account, no subscription, no dependency on us.
Frequently asked questions
Basics & privacy
Are these QR codes free to use commercially?
Yes. QR codes generated here have no usage restrictions. Use them on business cards, posters, packaging, restaurant menus, or anywhere else.
Do the QR codes expire?
No. We generate static QR codes that point directly to whatever you enter. As long as the destination URL stays online, the QR code keeps working forever.
Is my data sent to a server?
No. The QR code is generated entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Nothing you type leaves your device — no analytics on the input, no upload, no logging.
What is the difference between static and dynamic QR codes?
A static QR code has the destination encoded directly into the pattern, so it works forever and cannot be tracked. A dynamic QR code points to a short redirect URL that you can change later — this is what most paid services sell, but it stops working if their service shuts down. We only generate static codes.
What is the difference between a QR code and a regular barcode?
A traditional barcode (the kind on supermarket products) is one-dimensional — it stores about 20 characters of numeric data in vertical lines. A QR code is two-dimensional and stores up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters in a square grid, which is why it can hold whole URLs, contact cards, and WiFi credentials. QR codes also include error correction, so they still scan with up to 30% damage.
Do you track scans or store any data?
No. We are a static generator and have no way to track scans because we are not in the loop — the QR code points directly to your content. We also do not log what you type into the generator.
Does the QR code work in any country?
Yes. The QR code standard is global. Any modern smartphone camera (iOS 11+, Android 8+) reads QR codes natively, no app needed.
Is there a limit to how many QR codes I can generate?
No limit. Generate as many as you want. There is no sign-up, no quota, no watermark, no rate limit.
Designing & customisation
What is the maximum amount of data a QR code can hold?
Technically up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or 7,089 numeric digits, but the more data you add, the denser and harder to scan the code becomes. For URLs, stay under ~100 characters; for plain text, under 300 keeps scans reliable.
Can I customise the colors and still have it scan?
Yes, as long as the contrast ratio between foreground and background is at least 4:1, and the foreground is darker than the background. Inverting (light pattern on dark background) breaks most scanners.
Do branded or colored QR codes hurt scan rates?
Modern scanners handle brand colors fine — Spotify green, Coca-Cola red, and others work in production every day. The two real risks are low contrast (under 4:1) and inverted polarity (light pattern on dark). Stay above 4:1 with a dark pattern on a light background and any brand color is fair game.
What error correction level should I use?
Medium (15%) is a good default. Use Low for the smallest code with the most data, or High (30%) if the code will be printed on something that may get scuffed, dirty, or partially obscured (think outdoor signage, packaging).
PNG or SVG — which should I download?
PNG for digital use (websites, social media, slide decks). SVG for print, since it scales to any size without pixelation — give it to your designer or printer.
Can I add a logo to the centre?
Not directly here — we focus on clean, fast generation. If you want a logo overlay, set error correction to High, download the SVG, and place a small logo (max ~20% of QR width) over the centre in any image editor.
Scanning & reliability
Why does my QR code not scan?
The most common reasons are low contrast (foreground and background too similar), printing too small (below ~2 cm × 2 cm), or too much data crammed into a small code. Raise error correction to High, increase size, and aim for at least 4:1 contrast ratio.
What is the smallest size I can print a QR code?
Rule of thumb: scan distance ÷ 10. So a code scanned from 30 cm away should be at least 3 cm × 3 cm. For posters viewed from across a room, aim for 10 cm × 10 cm or larger.
Why does my QR work on my phone but not my customer's?
Usually one of three things: their camera app is older and only reads URLs (not WiFi or vCard), their phone case is throwing a shadow on the code, or the printed code is below the 2 cm × 2 cm minimum. Test on at least one iPhone and one budget Android before printing in volume — that catches 90% of compatibility issues.
Can I use this for restaurant menus?
Yes. Generate a QR code with the URL of your menu (PDF or web page), download the SVG, and print it at 3-5 cm. Many restaurants laminate the QR onto the table.