QR Code Generator
Generate a scannable QR code from any URL, text, email, or Wi-Fi credentials. Choose error correction level and download as PNG.
What is a QR code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores data as a grid of black and white squares. Unlike traditional 1D barcodes that encode data in a single row, QR codes encode information both horizontally and vertically — allowing them to hold significantly more data in a small space. Any modern smartphone camera can scan a QR code in under a second, making them ideal for bridging physical materials with digital content.
QR codes were invented in 1994 by Denso Wave in Japan for tracking automotive parts. When the patent was made freely available in 1999, adoption spread globally. Since smartphone cameras gained native QR scanning capability (iOS 11 in 2017, Android 9 in 2018), QR codes have become ubiquitous — on restaurant menus, payment terminals, business cards, event tickets, and product packaging.
How to use this tool
- Select a content type preset (URL, Email, Phone, Wi-Fi) or type your content directly into the input field.
- Adjust the module size — larger values produce a bigger image, which is better for print.
- Choose an error correction level appropriate for your use case (see below).
- Click Generate QR to preview your code instantly.
- Click Download PNG to save the image.
Content type formats
| Type | Format |
|---|---|
| URL | https://example.com |
| mailto:[email protected] | |
| Phone | tel:+911234567890 |
| Wi-Fi | WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;H:false;; |
Error correction levels explained
QR codes use Reed–Solomon error correction, which means they can still be read even when part of the code is damaged, dirty, or obscured. There are four levels:
- L — Low (7%): Smallest code, minimal redundancy. Best for digital-only use where the image will always be displayed cleanly on screen.
- M — Medium (15%): Good default for most use cases — a balanced choice between size and resilience.
- Q — Quartile (25%): Recommended for codes printed on surfaces that may get scratched or worn.
- H — High (30%): Maximum resilience. Required if you want to add a logo or design element in the centre of the QR code. Use for outdoor signage, labels, and packaging.
Higher error correction increases code density (more dots), which slightly reduces scannability at very small print sizes. For most applications, Q is the ideal balance.
Tips for generating effective QR codes
- Keep payloads short — shorter URLs produce simpler, less dense codes that scan faster and more reliably. Use a URL shortener if your URL is long.
- Test before printing — always scan the generated code with at least two different devices and apps before committing to print.
- Maintain the quiet zone — the white border around the QR code is required by all scanners. Do not crop it or let other design elements overlap it.
- Minimum print size — for reliable scanning at a normal reading distance, print QR codes at least 2 cm × 2 cm (about 0.8 inches).
- High contrast only — black on white is most reliable. Avoid colour combinations with low contrast or gradients over the code.
Common use cases
- Linking print materials, business cards, and flyers to a website or landing page
- Sharing Wi-Fi credentials at offices, events, or coffee shops without typing
- Contactless restaurant menus and product information pages
- Event tickets and boarding passes for gate scanning
- Payment links (UPI, PayPal, bank transfers) at point of sale
- App store deep links that detect iOS vs Android and redirect correctly
- Two-factor authentication setup (TOTP secret as a QR code)