Create QR codes instantly and download as PNG
Our free QR code generator creates high-quality QR codes for any text, URL, or contact information. Customize your QR codes with different colors and sizes, then download them as PNG images for use in print, digital marketing, or anywhere else you need.
A QR (Quick Response) code is a 2D barcode that stores information — typically a URL, text, or contact details. When scanned with a smartphone camera, the encoded data is instantly read and acted upon (e.g. opening a website). QR codes use a grid of black and white squares arranged in a specific pattern that can be decoded by any QR reader app or modern smartphone camera.
Yes — our QR code generator is completely free with no limits on how many codes you create. The codes themselves are free to use in any context: print, digital, commercial, or personal. There are no subscriptions, watermarks, or hidden fees.
Static QR codes (like the ones generated here) never expire. The encoded information is permanently embedded in the image itself. As long as you keep the image file, the QR code will work forever. Dynamic QR codes from some services can expire, but those require a paid subscription to a third-party service.
On most modern smartphones (iOS 11+ and Android 8+), simply open your camera app and point it at the QR code — the camera will automatically detect it and show a link or notification. If your camera doesn't recognise QR codes, download a free QR scanner app from your app store.
For reliable scanning, a printed QR code should be at least 2.5cm × 2.5cm (1 inch × 1 inch). For larger print materials like posters or banners, scale up proportionally. The minimum size depends on the complexity of the code — more data requires a denser pattern which needs more physical space to scan reliably.
A QR (Quick Response) code is a two-dimensional barcode encoding data in a matrix of black and white squares. Unlike traditional one-dimensional barcodes, QR codes store data in both dimensions, fitting significantly more information in a small space. A standard QR code can encode up to 7,089 numeric characters, 4,296 alphanumeric characters, or 2,953 bytes of binary data.
The structure is deliberate: the three large corner squares (finder patterns) help cameras locate and orient the code at any angle. Alignment patterns handle skewed or curved surfaces. Error correction data — using Reed-Solomon coding — allows up to 30% of the code to be damaged or obscured while still scanning correctly. This is why QR codes work even with a logo overlaid on part of the pattern.
QR codes have four error correction levels: L (7% recovery), M (15%), Q (25%), and H (30%). Higher levels tolerate more damage but produce denser codes requiring a cleaner, closer scan to read.
For digital use where the code is always clean, Level M is fine. For print on materials that may get dirty, wet, or partially covered (packaging, outdoor signs, restaurant menus), use Level H. If overlaying a logo on the code, always use Level H — the logo obscures data area and you need that recovery capacity.
Size: a QR code should be at least 2cm × 2cm for comfortable smartphone scanning at arm's length. For outdoor signage scanned from a distance, scale proportionally — roughly 10cm for 1m, 30cm for 3m scanning distance. Codes encoding longer URLs are denser and need to be larger to remain reliably scannable.
Contrast is critical. Black on white provides maximum contrast. Avoid light colours on light backgrounds, thin borders, or gradients that blur the module edges. Always test the printed code with multiple devices before distribution — what looks fine on screen may not scan reliably on certain paper stock or with certain ink densities.
Keep URLs short. A shorter URL produces a simpler, less dense code that scans more reliably and tolerates damage better. URL shorteners help, though permanent campaigns are better served by a custom short domain (yoursite.com/qr) to avoid dependency on third-party shortening services remaining active.
A static QR code encodes the destination directly — the content is fixed and cannot be changed without printing a new code. A dynamic QR code encodes a short redirect URL that you can update without reprinting — useful for menus, promotions, or event information that changes over time. Dynamic codes are offered by paid services.
The codes generated here are static. They encode exactly what you enter and are created entirely in your browser — no data is sent to any server. Use them freely for personal or commercial purposes.
Researched and maintained by Iulian, founder of Flux Media Systems. General information, not professional advice — about this site & our sources →