Free QR Code Generator
Generate high-quality QR codes for URLs, Wi-Fi, vCards, email, SMS and locations. Custom colours, four error-correction levels, optional logo overlay, and PNG or SVG download — all offline in your browser.
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Fill in the left panel to see your QR codeWhat Is a QR Code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores data in a grid of dark and light modules. It was invented by Denso Wave in 1994 for the automotive industry and standardised as ISO/IEC 18004. Compared to a traditional linear barcode, a QR code can hold far more data — up to ~2900 characters — and can be scanned from any angle, in any orientation, at speed.
Anatomy of a QR code
| Part | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Finder patterns | The three large squares in the corners — tell the scanner where the code is and how it is rotated |
| Alignment patterns | Smaller squares in larger codes that compensate for lens distortion and printing warp |
| Timing patterns | Alternating dark/light rows that let the scanner measure the module grid |
| Format information | Encodes the error-correction level and mask pattern |
| Data & error correction | The payload itself, plus Reed-Solomon redundancy that lets it survive damage |
| Quiet zone | The empty margin around the code — required by the spec, and essential for scanning |
The 40 versions and 4 error-correction levels
QR codes come in 40 sizes called versions, numbered 1 to 40. Each version increases the module count by 4, and roughly doubles capacity. Version 1 is 21×21 modules; version 40 is 177×177. Most consumer QR codes are version 3 to 10.
| Level | Recovery | Use when… |
|---|---|---|
| L (Low) | ~7% | Clean digital display, clean print, maximum data density |
| M (Medium) | ~15% | The default — good balance of robustness and size |
| Q (Quartile) | ~25% | Adding a small logo, printing on glossy or textured surfaces |
| H (High) | ~30% | Adding a large logo, outdoor signage, harsh conditions |
Static vs dynamic QR codes
This tool generates static QR codes: the payload is encoded directly in the pattern. They never expire, never redirect through a third party, and work as long as the encoded data itself is valid. That is the right choice for URLs, Wi-Fi credentials, contact cards, and anything else you want to work forever.
Dynamic QR codes — offered by many commercial services — actually encode a short redirect URL. When scanned, the phone hits the provider's server, which forwards to the real destination. The advantage is that you can edit the target URL without changing the code, and you get analytics on scans. The disadvantage is that the code stops working the moment you stop paying, and the provider can see every scan. Choose static unless you specifically need those trade-offs.
Best practices for scannability
- Keep the quiet zone. Leave at least 4 modules of empty space around the code. This tool includes it automatically.
- Maximise contrast. Dark foreground on a light background scans best. Never invert the colours — a white code on a black background will not scan on many phones.
- Size for the distance. A useful rule of thumb: 10× the scanning distance in centimetres. A QR code read from 3 metres should be at least 30 cm wide.
- Test on multiple phones. Before printing thousands of flyers, scan the code with at least three different devices and apps.
- Keep it short. Use a URL shortener, remove tracking parameters, or skip the vCard entirely if a plain URL will do — shorter data means a simpler, more robust code.
Common use cases
Instant Wi-Fi Access
Guests scan to join your network — no typing the password.
Digital Business Cards
A vCard QR code that adds you to contacts in one tap.
Marketing & Packaging
Send users to a landing page, menu or app store listing.
Restaurant Menus
Replace printed menus with a scannable link to your website.
Event Tickets
Encode a unique ticket ID that scanners can verify at the door.
Physical Locations
A geo QR code that opens turn-by-turn directions.
Payment Links
Encode a UPI, PayPal.me or Venmo URL for instant payment.
Product Authentication
A unique code per item that verifies authenticity online.
Privacy and security
This QR code generator runs entirely in your browser. The encoder is a complete ISO/IEC 18004 implementation in pure JavaScript — no server, no CDN, no network requests. Nothing is uploaded, stored or logged. That makes it safe to encode sensitive content like Wi-Fi passwords and private contact information. But remember: a QR code is not encryption — anyone who can see the pattern can read the data.