A QR (Quick Response) code is a type of two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned by a smartphone camera or QR reader to quickly access information — such as a URL, contact details, Wi-Fi credentials, or plain text.

How do I scan a QR code?

On most modern smartphones, open your Camera app and point it at the QR code. A notification or link will appear. You can also use dedicated QR scanner apps available for iOS and Android.

What is error correction level?

Error correction allows a QR code to be read even if part of it is damaged or obscured. Level L recovers 7% data loss, M recovers 15%, Q recovers 25%, and H recovers 30%. Use H when embedding a logo over the QR code.

Can I add a logo to my QR code?

Yes! Upload a logo image using the Logo option in the styling section. Use Error Correction Level H for best results, as the logo will cover part of the code. The QR code will still scan correctly.

What image format should I download — PNG or SVG?

PNG is best for general use — emails, websites, and print at standard sizes. SVG is a vector format that scales to any size without losing quality, ideal for large-format printing like banners or posters.

Is this QR code generator free?

Yes — 100% free, no signup required, and all QR codes are generated locally in your browser. No data is sent to any server and there are no watermarks.

Free QR Code Generator — Custom QR Codes

QR Code Type

URL / Link Content

Website URL

Include https:// for best compatibility

🎨 Customise Your QR Code

Colour Presets

Foreground (QR dots)

Background

Size: 256 × 256 px

Quiet Zone (margin): 4

Error Correction Level

M — Medium (15%) — Good general purpose

Logo / Image optionalClick to upload logoPNG, JPG, SVG — auto-sets error correction to H

QR Code Preview

Fill in the content fields on the left to generate your QR code

💡 Tips for Best Results

Contrast matters — always use high contrast between foreground and background colours for reliable scanning
Quiet zone — keep a margin of at least 4 modules around the QR code so scanners can detect its boundaries
With logos — use Error Correction Level H so the QR remains scannable even with the logo blocking part of it
Print size — for print, download at 512 px or use SVG for crisp results at any scale, from business cards to banners
Test first — scan your QR code with multiple devices before using it in production
Short URLs — shorter content produces a less complex QR code that is easier to scan from a distance

What is a QR Code?

A QR (Quick Response) code is a two-dimensional barcode invented by Denso Wave in 1994. It stores data as a pattern of black and white squares that can be read by a smartphone camera or QR scanner in milliseconds. QR codes can store URLs, text, contact details, Wi-Fi credentials, and much more — making them an indispensable tool for digital marketing, contactless sharing, and offline-to-online engagement.

QR Code Types Explained

URL / Link

Opens a website when scanned. The most common use case — great for business cards, flyers, and product packaging.

Plain Text

Displays a text message when scanned. Useful for sharing information without an internet connection.

Email

Opens a pre-addressed email compose window with optional subject and body pre-filled.

Phone

Prompts the user to call a phone number directly. Ideal for business cards and marketing materials.

SMS

Opens a text message window pre-addressed to a number with an optional pre-written message.

Wi-Fi

Connects the user to a Wi-Fi network automatically — no typing passwords. Perfect for cafés, hotels, and events.

vCard Contact

Stores full contact information (name, phone, email, address, website) that can be saved to the user's phone.

Location

Opens a specific geographic location in the device's map app. Use latitude/longitude coordinates.

Anatomy of a QR Code

🔲 Finder patterns — the three squares in the corners help scanners locate and orient the code

🔳 Alignment patterns — help scanners correct for distortion in larger QR codes

〰️ Timing patterns — alternating black/white stripes that define the module grid

🗂️ Data modules — the actual encoded information in binary format

⬜ Quiet zone — the white border around the QR that separates it from surrounding content

🔧 Format information — stores the error correction level and mask pattern