QR Code Generator

Generate QR codes from text, URLs, or other data

100% Client-Side Processing

Text or URL to encode:

0 / 2000 characters

QR Code Options

Size (pixels)

Error Correction

How QR Codes Store Your Data

QR codes are two-dimensional matrix barcodes that encode text into a grid of dark and light modules. When you type a URL or message into the generator, the text is converted into a binary stream and arranged into a square pattern that scanners can decode. The three large squares in the corners (finder patterns) help cameras locate and orient the code, while smaller alignment patterns and timing strips keep the data grid readable even at an angle.

The QR standard supports four encoding modes: numeric (the most efficient — up to 7,089 digits), alphanumeric (4,296 characters), byte/UTF-8 (2,953 characters), and Kanji. The encoder automatically selects the most efficient mode for your input. Short data produces a small Version 1 code (21×21 modules), while longer content scales up through Version 40 (177×177 modules). Our generator picks the right version automatically based on your data length.

Everything runs in your browser via the qrcode JavaScript library — there is no server round-trip, no upload, and no waiting. The QR code renders the instant you finish typing. When you download the result, it's exported as a raster PNG image.

Convert-To Tip

Shorter text means fewer modules and an easier-to-scan code. For long URLs, consider a URL shortener before encoding — a 20-character short link produces a much cleaner QR code than a 200-character tracking URL.

Choosing the Right Size and Error Correction

The size of your QR code determines where it can be used effectively. A code that looks crisp on a business card may be unreadable on a highway billboard, and vice versa.

Size	Best For
128×128 px	Small screens, chat messages, inline icons
256×256 px	Web pages, email signatures, business cards
512×512 px	Print materials, product packaging, flyers
1024×1024 px	Large posters, banners, signage

Error correction adds redundant data so the code remains scannable even when partially damaged or obscured. Higher levels recover more data but produce denser patterns that need larger print sizes.

Level	Recovery	Best For
L (Low)	7%	Clean environments, smallest QR code
M (Medium)	15%	General use — good default
Q (Quartile)	25%	Outdoor or dirty environments
H (High)	30%	Logo overlay, harsh conditions

A useful rule of thumb: the QR code should be at least 1/10th of the expected scanning distance. For a code scanned from 30 cm away (a business card), print it at least 3 cm wide. For a poster scanned from 3 meters, make it at least 30 cm. Learn more about print sizing in our guide on image resolution, DPI, and PPI.

What You Can Encode — and When to Keep It Short

The most common use is encoding a URL, but QR codes can hold any text-based data. Here are the data types scanners recognize natively:

URLs — the most common use case. Paste any web address and scanners will open it directly.
Plain text — notes, messages, or any freeform content.
WiFi credentials — WIFI:T:WPA;S:MyNetwork;P:MyPassword;; lets guests join your network by scanning.
vCard contact info — encode name, phone, email, and address into a scannable contact card.
SMS — SMSTO:+1234567890:Hello pre-fills a text message on the scanner's phone.
Email — mailto:[email protected] opens the default mail client.

Keep in mind that capacity and scannability are trade-offs. A Version 4 QR code (33×33 modules) at error correction level M holds about 78 bytes — roughly a short URL. A 500-character vCard pushes to Version 10+ (57×57 modules), creating a much denser code that's harder to scan at small sizes. For real-world use cases like restaurant menus, event check-in, product packaging, and real estate signs, shorter data produces more reliable results.

Privacy Note

Since this tool runs entirely in your browser, the data you encode — whether it's a URL, WiFi password, or contact info — never leaves your device. No server ever sees your input.

When QR Codes Fail to Scan

QR codes are resilient, but they can fail in predictable ways. Understanding these failure modes helps you avoid them.

Too much data

Encoding a 2,000-character block of text creates a Version 25+ code with tiny modules that many phone cameras can't resolve. Keep encoded data under 300 characters when possible. For long content, link to a web page instead of embedding the full text.

Poor contrast

Dark-on-dark or light-on-light color combinations defeat the scanner. Dark modules on a light background is the only reliable approach. Avoid decorative color schemes that sacrifice contrast for aesthetics.

Missing quiet zone

The white border around the QR code must be at least 4 modules wide. Our generator includes this automatically, but cropping the image or placing it against a busy background can break scanning.

Physical damage

Scratched, folded, or partially covered QR codes rely on error correction to remain scannable. At EC level L (7%), even a small smudge can prevent scanning. Use level M or higher for any printed materials.

Curved surfaces

Bottles, cans, and cylindrical packaging distort the QR code geometry. Use higher error correction levels and larger sizes for curved applications to compensate for the distortion.

A common mistake: testing only on your own phone. Always test on 2–3 different devices before deploying a QR code in production.