Questions about QR codes
Short answers about static codes, printing and privacy. For the longer story on static and dynamic codes, read the guide.
Is this QR code generator free?
Yes. There is no sign-up and no limit on how many codes you make. Download each code as PNG or SVG and use it however you like, including on products and packaging you sell.
Do these QR codes expire?
No. They are static codes: your link, text or contact details are stored in the pattern itself, with nothing in between. A code for a web page works for as long as that page is online.
What is the difference between a static and a dynamic QR code?
A static code holds your content directly. A dynamic code holds a short link that forwards each scan to your page, so you can change the destination and count scans after printing. The guide covers both.
Can I change where the code points after printing?
Not with a static code, because the address is part of the pattern. If the destination may change, make a Snip link and put its QR code on the print instead. You can point it somewhere new at any time.
Can I see how many people scanned my code?
A static code cannot count scans, because nothing sits between the code and the phone. A Snip link counts every scan. You can also add tags such as utm_source=flyer to your link and read them in your own analytics.
Is what I type sent to a server?
No. The code is drawn in your browser, on your device. Links, Wi-Fi passwords and contact details are not uploaded.
Which error correction level should I use?
Error correction lets a code survive damage. Level L recovers about 7% of the code, M about 15%, Q about 25% and H about 30%. Higher levels make the pattern denser. M suits most screens and print; use Q or H outdoors or on curved surfaces.
What size should I print a QR code?
A common rule of thumb is a code about one tenth as wide as the scanning distance: 2 to 3 cm for a menu on a table, much larger for a poster read from across a room. Keep a blank border around it, 4 modules wide.
Should I download PNG or SVG?
SVG is a vector file: it stays sharp at any size, so it suits print and design tools. PNG is an image, which suits documents, slides and websites.
How much can one QR code hold?
The largest QR code, version 40 at level L, holds up to 2,953 bytes of text, 4,296 characters from the restricted alphanumeric set or 7,089 digits. Short content makes a smaller code that scans more easily.
Why won't my QR code scan?
The usual causes are low contrast, a light code on a dark background, a missing blank border, a code printed too small, or too much content for its size. Keep dark on light and test before printing.
Ready to make one? The free generator needs no sign-up.