What is a QR Code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information in a matrix of black and white squares. Originally developed in Japan in 1994 for tracking automotive parts, QR codes are now ubiquitous — used for everything from restaurant menus and event tickets to cryptocurrency wallets and contactless payments.
Unlike traditional barcodes that store data in one dimension (horizontally), QR codes encode data both horizontally and vertically, allowing them to hold significantly more information — up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or 7,089 numeric digits — in a compact, scannable square.
How to Generate a QR Code
- Enter the URL or text you want to encode in the input field.
- Adjust the size slider to set the output resolution (128–512 px).
- The QR code preview updates instantly.
- Click Download SVG for a scalable vector file (ideal for print).
- Click Download PNG for a raster image (ideal for digital use).
SVG vs PNG — Which Should You Use?
- SVG — Scalable Vector Graphics. The file stays crisp at any size, making it ideal for print materials, business cards, or large-format displays where sharpness matters.
- PNG — Portable Network Graphics. A raster format best suited for web pages, emails, apps, and presentations. The downloaded PNG matches the size you selected with the slider.
Common QR Code Use Cases
- Website links — share a URL without typing.
- Business cards — link to your portfolio, LinkedIn, or contact page.
- Restaurant menus — contactless, easy-to-update digital menus.
- Event tickets — scannable entry codes that reduce fraud.
- Wi-Fi sharing — encode network credentials so guests can connect instantly.
- Marketing campaigns — track offline-to-online conversions via UTM-tagged URLs.
- Product packaging — link to manuals, tutorials, or warranty pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much data can a QR code hold?
A standard QR code can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or 7,089 numeric digits at the lowest error correction level. Longer content produces denser, more complex codes. For URLs, using a URL shortener keeps the code simple and easy to scan.
Do QR codes expire?
Static QR codes (like those generated here) do not expire — the code itself is just an encoded string. If the URL you linked to goes offline, scans will fail, but the QR code file itself remains valid forever.
Is this QR code generator free to use?
Yes, completely free. No account, subscription, or watermark. The code is generated entirely in your browser — no data leaves your device.
What is the best size for a printed QR code?
For reliable scanning, a QR code should be at least 2 cm × 2 cm in print. For large-format displays (banners, posters), go larger. Download the SVG version for print as it scales without pixelation.
Can I encode Wi-Fi credentials in a QR code?
Yes. Use the format WIFI:S:NetworkName;T:WPA;P:Password;; as the input text. Most modern Android and iOS devices will offer to connect automatically when scanning such a code.
What is error correction in QR codes?
Error correction allows a QR code to remain scannable even if part of it is damaged or obscured. This tool uses level M (15% recovery), which balances data density with resilience. Level H (30%) allows adding logos in the center at the cost of a denser code.