Why Is My QR Code Not Working: Troubleshooting
Scan failures can be categorized into two main types: physical issues and code errors.
Your code may not be working because of the way it’s printed or displayed, meaning users cannot scan at the proper angle or distance, or the camera focus or lighting is not adequate.
Alternatively, problems with the code itself may be behind the issue, such as broken links, outdated formatting, or design mistakes. 53% of users will leave a site if it takes longer than a few seconds to load, so it’s vital that your QR codes open correctly.
To solve your QR code problem most efficiently, identify which type of issue is affecting your QR before applying fixes.
Why Your QR Code Isn’t Working: Most Frequent Problems
Before replacing or reprinting anything, it’s critical to understand what’s preventing successful scans.
The first step is to identify the root cause of your QR problem and then apply the right solution. This helps you avoid repeated errors, reduce wasted materials, and create effective QR assets for your business.
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Poor lighting or blurry camera
Low light reduces camera contrast, and smudged lenses prevent autofocus. If you're sharing a QR code in a physical location, make sure it's displayed in a well-lit area, ideally with at least 100 lux of illumination.
Poor lighting can prevent smartphone cameras or scanners from properly reading the code, especially at evening events. Test on multiple cameras to maintain reliability across different devices. It’s important to clean camera lenses regularly and hold the device at 10–20 cm.
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Damaged or distorted code
Folding, scratches, or ink bleeding on printed materials distort patterns and ruin QR code integrity. Even a 2 mm tear affects readability.
To avoid problems, use matte lamination or protective overlays on marketing materials, like flyers or posters. If printed copies degrade, replace them with paper quality and ink density that’s recommended for scanning.
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Low contrast design
Designs with pastel shades or light colors reduce scanner accuracy. Subtle gradients and logos in the frame can disrupt decoding.
It’s best to maintain 40% contrast between the foreground and background. A dark foreground with a light background works best. This is essential to consider when creating QRs with custom colors and logos, to ensure reliable detection across all major scanning apps and devices.
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QR code size issues
Codes that are too small increase scan time and cause misreads. The opposite is also true: codes that are too big cause problems with scan distance.
You’re recommended to print codes at a minimum of 2×2 cm. For billboards or large signage, size accordingly to maintain the same scanning ratio, based on ideal QR code size guidelines.
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Links to expired or broken URLs
Users see error pages or no content if the URL is incorrect or the link has expired. Use dynamic URL codes to swap out content whenever you need to, so your QR stays up to date.
It’s essential to regularly test all live links and update expired ones using QRNow’s dashboard. You’ll also see tracked scan activity and link performance, so you can better understand how customers are interacting with your codes.
How to Fix a QR Code That Doesn’t Work
If your QR code is not scanning correctly, follow these tips:
- Test your code with multiple devices and scanning apps
- Check that the lighting is adequate where your code is displayed
- Reprint any damaged or distorted materials
- Update dynamic QRs to replace any broken links
If you need to create a new code:
- Make sure the contrast and design meet recommendations
- Follow tips on sizing, paper quality, and ink density when printing
How to Prevent QR Code Scanning Issues in the Future
Preventing QR scan errors starts with smart design, proper formatting, and regular maintenance.
A reliable QR code generator helps you avoid formatting errors and low-resolution outputs. QRNow allows you to create a range of codes in minutes that are compatible with all major scanners and platforms.
These tips also help to create functional codes and keep them effective over time.
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1. Choose dynamic codes
They can be edited after printing, allowing you to update URLs, track scans, or correct mistakes without needing a reprint.
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2. Test on multiple devices before publishing
This helps identify compatibility issues across operating systems, camera types, and scanning software.
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3. Monitor scan performance and link health
Checking this frequently helps you spot broken URLs, expired redirects, low engagement, and user experience issues quickly.
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4. Print with durability in mind
Using lamination or protective finishes helps avoid scratches, tears, and ink bleeding that could distort your QR.
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5. Maintain clear contrast and sizing
Stick to the standard scanning ratio and avoid placing codes on cluttered or low-visibility surfaces for fast scans.
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