QR Code Generator Online - Free QR Code Maker

Create custom QR codes for URLs, text, WiFi, contacts, and more. Download as PNG or SVG.

Enter content to generate QR code

What is a QR Code?

A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode invented in 1994 by Denso Wave, a Japanese automotive company. Unlike traditional barcodes that store data horizontally, QR codes store information both horizontally and vertically, allowing them to hold significantly more data — up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters.

QR codes have become ubiquitous in modern life, appearing on product packaging, restaurant menus, business cards, and marketing materials. Any smartphone camera can scan them instantly, making them one of the most accessible ways to bridge physical and digital content.

Our free QR code generator creates high-quality codes that work with any scanner. Download as PNG for digital use or SVG for print materials that need to scale to any size without losing quality.

Types of QR Code Content

URL / Website Link

The most common use. Enter any web address and scanners will open it directly.

https://yourwebsite.com

WiFi Network

Share WiFi credentials. Guests can connect without typing the password.

WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;;

Email

Pre-fill an email address. Can also include subject and body text.

mailto:hello@example.com

Phone Number

Opens the phone dialer with the number pre-filled.

tel:+1234567890

SMS Message

Opens the messaging app with recipient and optional message.

sms:+1234567890?body=Hello

Plain Text

Any text content: serial numbers, codes, instructions, etc.

Your custom text here

Popular Use Cases for QR Codes

For Business

  • • Business cards — Link to your portfolio or LinkedIn profile
  • • Restaurant menus — Digital menus that are easy to update
  • • Product packaging — Link to manuals, tutorials, or registration
  • • Storefronts — Share hours, directions, or promotions
  • • Receipts — Link to surveys or loyalty programs

For Marketing

  • • Print ads — Bridge offline and online campaigns
  • • Event posters — Link to registration or ticket purchase
  • • Billboards — Drive traffic to landing pages
  • • Social media — Share profile links in stories or posts
  • • Email signatures — Quick access to your contact info

For Personal Use

  • • WiFi sharing — Let guests connect without dictating passwords
  • • Wedding invitations — Link to RSVP forms or photo albums
  • • Moving boxes — Link to inventory lists
  • • Pet tags — Contact info if your pet gets lost

For Events

  • • Tickets — Digital entry passes
  • • Conference badges — Networking contact exchange
  • • Trade show booths — Capture leads and share materials
  • • Museum exhibits — Additional information and audio guides

Frequently Asked Questions

What size should I make my QR code?

For print, the general rule is 1 inch (2.5 cm) minimum for close-range scanning (business cards, menus). For posters or signage meant to be scanned from farther away, increase the size proportionally. A good formula: scanning distance (in inches) ÷ 10 = minimum QR code size (in inches).

Should I download PNG or SVG?

PNG is best for digital use: websites, emails, social media, and presentations.SVG is best for print: it's a vector format that scales to any size without becoming blurry. If you're printing on large materials like banners or posters, always use SVG.

Can I customize the colors of my QR code?

Yes! Use the color pickers to change the foreground (the dark modules) and background colors. For best scanning reliability, maintain high contrast between foreground and background. Dark foreground on light background works best. Avoid low-contrast combinations like yellow on white.

Is there a limit to how much data I can store?

QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters, but more data means more complex (denser) codes that are harder to scan. For best results, keep URLs short (use a link shortener if needed) and text content concise. Most practical QR codes contain under 100 characters.

Do QR codes expire?

Static QR codes (like the ones generated here) never expire — they're just encoded data. However, if your QR code links to a URL that goes offline, the code will still work but lead to a dead page. For important long-term use, ensure the destination URL will remain active.

How do I create a WiFi QR code?

Use the WiFi preset button or manually enter the format: WIFI:T:WPA;S:YourNetworkName;P:YourPassword;;Replace WPA with WEP or nopass for different security types. The semicolons and double semicolon at the end are required.

Tips for Effective QR Codes

  • Test before printing: Always scan your QR code with multiple devices before committing to print. What works on one phone might not work on another if the contrast is too low.
  • Add a call-to-action: Don't just place a QR code alone. Add text like "Scan for menu" or "Scan to connect to WiFi" so people know what to expect.
  • Use mobile-friendly destinations: Ensure the page your QR code links to is optimized for mobile devices, since that's how most people will access it.
  • Leave quiet zone: QR codes need white space (called a "quiet zone") around them to scan properly. Don't crop too close to the edges.

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