QR Code Generator
Generate a QR code from any text or URL instantly. Customize colors, size, and error correction — then download as PNG or SVG.
What Can You Put in a QR Code?
- Website URL:
https://example.com— the most common use case - Plain text: Any message, note, or instruction
- Email:
mailto:[email protected] - Phone:
tel:+1234567890 - Wi-Fi:
WIFI:S:NetworkName;T:WPA;P:password;; - SMS:
smsto:+1234567890:Hello! - vCard: Encoded contact information
- Geo location:
geo:37.7749,-122.4194
Choosing the Right Error Correction Level
- L (Low, 7%): Smallest QR code, easiest to scan — use for clean digital displays
- M (Medium, 15%): Good balance — recommended for most use cases
- Q (Quartile, 25%): Good for printing in environments with minor wear
- H (High, 30%): Use when adding a logo over the center, or for harsh environments
QR Code Design Tips
- Keep URLs short — shorter data means simpler, faster-scanning QR codes
- Use URL shorteners for long URLs before encoding
- Ensure high contrast between foreground and background colors
- Test your QR code on multiple devices before printing
- Add a quiet zone (white border) around the QR code when printing
- Use SVG format for print materials — it scales without quality loss
PNG vs SVG: Which Format to Download?
- SVG: Vector format — scales to any size without pixelation. Best for print, posters, business cards
- PNG: Raster format — fixed resolution. Best for websites, email, and apps
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a QR code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that can store text, URLs, contact information, or any other data. It was invented in 1994 by Denso Wave. Smartphones can scan QR codes using their cameras to instantly open URLs, save contacts, or read text.
What can I encode in a QR code?
QR codes can encode URLs, plain text, email addresses, phone numbers, Wi-Fi credentials (SSID + password), contact cards (vCard), geographic coordinates, calendar events, and more. The most common use is encoding a URL so users can scan it instead of typing the address.
What is error correction in QR codes?
Error correction allows a QR code to be read even if part of it is damaged or obscured. There are four levels: L (7% damage tolerance), M (15%), Q (25%), H (30%). Higher error correction makes the QR code more reliable but also denser. Use H if you plan to add a logo over the center of the QR code.
What is the maximum amount of data a QR code can hold?
QR codes can hold up to 7,089 numeric characters, 4,296 alphanumeric characters, or 2,953 bytes of binary data at error correction level L. In practice, shorter URLs and text produce simpler, easier-to-scan QR codes. Keep URLs under 100 characters when possible.
Can I use a custom color for my QR code?
Yes. This generator lets you choose any foreground and background color. Ensure sufficient contrast between the two colors — dark foreground on light background scans most reliably. Avoid light-on-dark or low-contrast combinations.
Is the generated QR code free to use?
Yes. QR codes generated with this tool are completely free to use for personal or commercial purposes with no attribution required. The QR code standard is not patented.