How to Generate a QR Code Free Online
What you can encode in a QR code
QR codes can contain any text — which means they work for:
- - URLs — the most common use. Anyone who scans gets taken directly to your site or landing page.
- - Email addresses — scanning opens a pre-addressed email.
- - Phone numbers — scanning prompts the user to call.
- - Plain text — useful for instructions, codes, or short messages.
- - Wi-Fi credentials — scanning connects to a network automatically on Android.
- - Business card info (vCard) — sharing contact details without typing.
Step-by-step
1. Open the QR Code Generator tool. 2. Type or paste what you want to encode — a URL, text, email, or phone number. 3. Your QR code is generated automatically. 4. Click Download to save it as a PNG.
How to make a good QR code
Keep the URL short. Longer content creates denser, more complex QR codes that are harder to scan, especially when printed small. Use a URL shortener if your link is very long.
Test before printing. Always scan your QR code yourself before putting it in print. Use two or three different devices if possible. A QR code that does not work in print is worse than no QR code at all.
Use high contrast. Black on white is the most reliable combination. Avoid light-on-dark or low-contrast colour schemes, which reduce scan reliability.
Make it large enough. For print materials, a QR code should be at least 2.5 cm * 2.5 cm (about 1 inch square) for reliable scanning. Larger is better.
Add a call to action. Label your QR code with text like "Scan to visit our menu" or "Scan for the discount code." People are more likely to scan when they know what they will get.
Common uses by medium
| Medium | Typical use | |--------|------------| | Business cards | Link to LinkedIn or portfolio | | Restaurant menus | Link to digital menu or ordering | | Packaging | Product registration or instructions | | Event flyers | Ticket purchase or event details | | Storefront | Google reviews or contact info |