QR Code Generator
Create QR codes for URLs, text, vCard or WiFi with custom colors and size. Download as PNG, JPEG, WebP or SVG — entirely in your browser.
What Is a QR Code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode standard. Developed in Japan in 1994, it has become part of everyday life as smartphones spread. It is made up of black-and-white square dots arranged in a grid.
Unlike a traditional barcode, a QR code stores data both horizontally and vertically, so it can encode a URL, text, contact details, a WiFi password and much more in a small area. It is scanned in seconds with a smartphone camera, sending the user straight to the content.
How to Create a QR Code
This QR code maker lets you make QR code images in seconds. The steps to generate a QR code with this tool are:
- Choose a content type: URL/Text, vCard (contact card) or WiFi
- Enter the details: fill in the web address, text or network information
- Pick a size: 128px (for web), 256px (standard), 512px or 1024px (for print)
- Customize colors: set the QR color and background color
- Click "Generate QR Code" and download it as PNG, JPEG, WebP or SVG
Everything happens in your browser; the data you enter is never sent to a server.
QR Code Types and Uses
| QR Code Type | Content | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| URL / Website QR | Web address (https://...) | Website, social media, campaign page |
| vCard QR | Name, phone, email, web | Digital business card, networking events |
| WiFi QR | SSID, password, security type | Guest WiFi access, café, hotel |
| Text QR | Plain text | Product info, instructions, notes |
| WhatsApp QR | wa.me/... link | Customer contact, support line |
QR Code Size and Print Quality
For on-screen display, 256px is enough. For print materials (brochures, business cards, posters), 512px or 1024px is recommended. The SVG format is vector-based, so it prints at full quality regardless of scale; use SVG for large-format printing.
The physical size of a QR code should be at least 2×2 cm. Size should scale with scanning distance: a code scanned from 10 cm needs to be at least 1 cm, while one scanned from 1 meter should be at least 10 cm.
QR Code Use-Case Examples
- Restaurant menu: stick a QR code on tables that links to the digital menu
- Business card: a vCard QR instantly saves contact details to a phone
- WiFi sharing: let guests scan a code instead of typing the password
- Social media: share an Instagram, YouTube or website link via QR
- Product label: link to a product page or promo video
- Events: generate a QR for tickets, a registration link or the agenda
What Is a URL QR Code?
A URL QR code contains a web address. The person who scans it is taken directly to a web page, social profile or app-download page. It is the most common QR type in marketing materials (brochures, posters, packaging).
When creating a URL QR code, make sure the address starts with the https:// protocol. Using a URL with UTM parameters lets you track how many scans came from each material in Google Analytics.
QR Code vs. Barcode
A traditional barcode stores data only along the horizontal axis and usually holds short numeric/alphanumeric data such as product codes (EAN-13, Code-128). A QR code stores data both horizontally and vertically, encoding far more information in a small area — long content such as URLs, text, WiFi passwords and vCards.
Use a barcode for product labels and inventory tracking; use a QR code for customer redirection, digital business cards and WiFi sharing. See the related tools at the bottom of the page to create both formats for free.
Free QR Code Generator: Tips and FAQs
This free QR code generator — a complete QR generator and QR code creator in one — offers flexible options for every scenario. The most common questions when generating a QR code are:
- Which color should I choose? — Prefer high contrast: a dark QR color on a light background. Light-on-dark combinations can cause problems with some scanners.
- What is the difference between a dynamic and a static QR? — A dynamic URL QR keeps working even if the destination URL changes; this tool creates static codes that encode the data directly.
- How much data can be stored? — Up to about 4,296 alphanumeric characters for URLs and text. Shorter URLs scan more reliably and produce a more compact QR code.
- Do QR codes with a logo work? — Yes. With error correction level H (30%), the code remains readable even if up to 30% is obscured. To add a logo, generate the QR first, then place your logo in the center using a graphics program.
Alongside this tool, you can use the barcode generator linked below to cover both QR and classic barcode needs. See the frequently asked questions section for more details.
QR Code Color and Design Customization
This QR code generator offers color options beyond standard black-and-white. Match your brand by setting foreground and background colors. Points to watch when designing:
- Contrast ratio: there must be enough contrast between the QR color and the background; otherwise scanners cannot read it.
- Quiet zone: leave at least 4 modules of empty space around the QR code. This margin is required for the scanner to detect the code's boundaries.
- Minimum size: on print, the smallest edge of a QR code should be 2 cm; on screen, 100px is enough.
- Always test: scan your generated code with different phones and scanner apps before using it.
Download your QR code as PNG, JPEG, WebP or SVG for print and digital use. Testing on different devices before printing helps you catch reading problems in advance. Each time you click Generate QR Code, a new code is produced from the current color and size settings; previously downloaded files are not affected.
Frequently Asked Questions About the QR Code Generator
A QR (Quick Response) code is a two-dimensional barcode that stores data such as a URL, text, WiFi password or contact details. It can be scanned in seconds with a smartphone camera. Unlike a traditional barcode, it stores data both horizontally and vertically, so it holds much more information.
Choose the content type (URL/Text, vCard or WiFi), enter the details, set the size and color, then click "Generate QR Code". You can download the result as PNG, JPEG, WebP or SVG. Everything happens in your browser and no sign-up is needed.
No. Everything runs client-side in your browser. The URL, text or WiFi password you enter is never sent to a server, so you can use it without any privacy concerns.
For web and screen use, 256px PNG is enough. For small prints like business cards use 512px; for posters or large-format prints use 1024px or SVG. WebP gives the smallest file size in modern browsers. SVG is vector-based and stays sharp at any size.
Yes. You can customize the QR color and background color separately using the color picker or a hex code. Important: there must be enough contrast between the QR and the background; low contrast reduces scannability.
QR codes created here are static and encode the URL or data directly, with no server dependency. They never expire and always work. They only stop working if the destination URL they point to goes offline, so keep the URL valid.
Couldn't find the answer you were looking for?
Explore all our tools and get the fastest answer to your question.