QR Code Generator
Turn any URL or text into a QR code you can download as a PNG.
Make your QR code
Your QR code
Error correction at a glance
Higher error correction lets a code survive more damage, but it also packs the modules tighter, so the code needs to be printed a little larger.
| Level | Damage it can recover | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| L (low) | About 7 percent | Clean prints, screens, short links |
| M (medium) | About 15 percent | Most everyday uses, the safe default |
| Q (quartile) | About 25 percent | Outdoor signs, rough handling |
| H (high) | About 30 percent | Small prints, codes partly covered by a logo |
How QR codes work
This free QR code generator turns any URL or text into a QR code you can download as a PNG. It is made for shop owners, marketers, teachers and anyone who needs a quick scannable link for a poster, a menu or a business card. There is no sign-up, and the code is drawn entirely in your browser, so nothing you type is uploaded or stored anywhere.
What is a QR code?
A QR code is a barcode that stores information in a grid of black and white modules, and any phone camera can read it. QR codes were invented in 1994 by the company Denso Wave to track parts in factories, and they later spread to payments, tickets, menus and advertising because they hold far more data than a traditional barcode.
How does a QR code store information?
A QR code stores data as a pattern of dark and light squares, with error correction data woven in so the code still scans when part of it is dirty or covered. The three large corner squares tell the scanner where the code is, while smaller alignment squares help it cope with codes printed on curved or tilted surfaces.
What do the error correction levels mean?
Error correction levels L, M, Q and H decide how much of a QR code can be damaged. Level L recovers about 7 percent of data, M 15 percent, Q about 25 percent and H about 30 percent. Higher levels make the code denser, so use M for most links and H when a logo covers part of the code.
How big should a printed QR code be?
A printed QR code should be at least 2 centimetres wide for a phone to scan it easily at close range. For posters and signs read from further away, make the code bigger, roughly 1 centimetre of width for every 10 centimetres of scanning distance. Always test the printed code with two different phones before you print it in bulk.
Can I change the colours of a QR code?
Yes, you can change the dark and light colours, but keep contrast between them or phones will struggle to read the code. Dark modules on a light background work best, and black on white is the most reliable combination. Avoid light colours for the modules, avoid reversing the code to white on black, and never place a photo behind it.
Do QR codes expire?
No, a QR code itself never expires. It is simply a picture of your text or link, so it works for as long as the link behind it works. If the code points to a web page, the page must stay online at the same address, and links from paid dynamic QR services can break when the subscription ends.
Frequently asked questions
Is this QR code generator really free?
Yes. It is free, with no sign-up, no limits and no watermark on the downloaded image. The code is generated in your browser, so there is nothing to pay for and nothing to install.
Do I need an account to download a QR code?
No. Pick a size, press Download PNG, and the image saves straight to your device. Nothing you type is sent to a server or saved anywhere.
What can I put in a QR code?
Any short text works, but web links are the most common use. You can also encode a Wi-Fi password, a phone number, an email address, or a short message. Keep the text short, because longer text makes a denser code that is harder to scan.
How do I scan a QR code?
Open the camera app on your phone and point it at the code. Most modern phones read QR codes directly from the camera, with no extra app needed. A link or a prompt appears on the screen, and you tap it to open it.
Will my QR code still work if I print it small?
A code printed at 2 centimetres wide scans well at close range, but smaller than that gets unreliable. Use error correction level H for small prints, and always test the printed code with two different phones before printing a batch.
Can I put my logo in the middle of a QR code?
Yes, if you keep the logo small and use error correction level H, which can recover about 30 percent of the code. Cover only the centre, never the three large corner squares, and test the result on several phones before you use it.
Does this tool store my links or text?
No. The QR code is generated entirely in your browser using code built into this page. Your text is never uploaded, stored, or shared with anyone.
More tools you may need
Optimising the page your QR code points to? Try the Meta Tag Generator. Running a website? Our AdSense Earnings Calculator estimates what your traffic could earn, and the Ads.txt Generator builds your ads.txt file.
