QR Code Generator

How to use the QR Code Generator

1. Choose what the code should contain: a web address, text, Wi-Fi details, an email, a phone number, a text message or a contact card.
2. Fill in the fields. The preview updates as you type.
3. Optionally change the colours, PNG size, error correction and quiet zone (the blank border scanners need).
4. Scan the preview with your phone’s camera to test it before using it.
5. Download a PNG for documents and screens, or an SVG for print, where it can be scaled to any size without blurring.

Example: a Wi-Fi code for guests

Choosing Wi-Fi network with the network name Cafe Guest, password espresso-2026 and WPA security produces a code containing:

WIFI:T:WPA;S:Cafe Guest;P:espresso-2026;;

When a guest scans it with a modern iPhone or Android phone, the camera offers to join the network, with no typing required. Special characters such as ; or : in a name or password are escaped automatically so the code still works.

How QR codes store information

A QR code is a grid of dark and light squares called modules. The content is converted to bytes and encoded with Reed–Solomon error correction, the same family of codes used on CDs and in deep-space communication. The fixed squares in three corners let scanners find and align the code from any angle.

Error correction adds redundancy so a code still scans when partly damaged, dirty or covered. Higher levels survive more damage but need more modules, producing a denser code. Medium suits most uses; choose High if the code will be printed on something that may get scuffed.

Static codes: no expiry and no tracking

Many QR services create “dynamic” codes that point to a short link on their server, which redirects to your content. That allows scan statistics, but the code stops working if the service closes or your subscription ends. The codes made here are static: your web address or text is encoded directly into the pattern. They work for as long as the content itself is valid, and scanning them does not involve us or anyone else.

If you need scan statistics for a campaign, encode a link built with the UTM Link Builder so visits are attributed in your own analytics.

Tips for codes that scan reliably

• Keep strong contrast: dark modules on a light background. Inverted or pale colour combinations fail on many scanners; the tool warns you when contrast is too low.
• Keep the quiet zone. Placing text or graphics right up to the code’s edge stops it scanning.
• Print at a sensible size — roughly 2 × 2 cm as a minimum for short links scanned at arm’s length, and larger for long content or longer scanning distances.
• Shorter content makes a simpler, more robust code.

Limitations to keep in mind

• A QR code can hold up to about 2,900 bytes at the lowest error-correction level; the generator reports when content is too long.
• Custom logos inside the code, rounded modules and gradient colours are not offered, because they reduce scanning reliability.
• Whether a phone acts on Wi-Fi, contact or SMS codes depends on its operating system and camera app.
• Codes are static: once printed, the content cannot be changed. Encode a web address you control if you might need to change the destination later.

How your data is handled

Codes are generated in your browser by an open-source library bundled with this site. Your content, including Wi-Fi passwords, is never sent to a server. Note that anyone who scans a code can read what it contains.

Frequently asked questions