How To Create a QR Code for Maximum Impact
This is your complete guide to generating high-impact QR codes. Find out how to design, generate, and print QR codes that get results!
Understanding QR Codes: What They Are and How They Work
QR codes, short for Quick Response codes, are 2-dimensional barcodes. They can contain lots of different information, from text and URLs to contact details and Wi-Fi passwords. QR codes are your powerful tool for quickly sharing information.
A QR code is made up of squares arranged on a grid. When scanned using a smartphone camera or a QR code scanner, the device reads these patterns and translates them into readable information. If you want to dive deeper, see our article on how QR codes are generated.
Make your own QR codes today to connect with your audience.
How To Make a QR Code Step-by-Step
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Choose what your QR code will share
Select the type of content you want your QR code to contain. With our QR generator, you can choose from a ton of options including: URL, PDF, vCard, and more. Need Wi-Fi access? Generate a Wi-Fi QR Code instantly. Not sure which one you need? Hover over each button to see an example and get inspired.
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Add content, colors, and company logo
Depending on the type of QR code you’ve chosen, you’ll need to add details such as your company name, contact information, or URL. Now, select your color scheme and, if you want, add a logo. Simple!
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Get creative with your QR code design
Time to get creative! Choose shapes, colors, and patterns to make your code pop. Feeling adventurous? Give our powerful AI design tool a spin — describe your dream code in a few words and let AI do the rest. Prepare to be amazed.
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Generate and test your QR code
Hit Finish to generate your brand-new QR code. Test your code by scanning it with your smartphone and make sure it directs to the correct information or action. Working correctly? Great, you’re almost there!
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Download your QR code in any format
With QRNow.com, you can download your QR code in different formats for maximum flexibility. Choose PNG, JPEG, or SVG for a wide range of printed and digital marketing materials. Your QR code is ready for action!
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Share your QR code with the world!
You can start using your new QR code right away. Add it to your website, flyers, event invites and more to connect with your audience. You’ll soon have actionable insights based on how, when, and where your codes are scanned.
Ready to simplify access to your content? Hit the button below to get started.
Create QR Code
Designing QR Codes That Get Noticed and Scanned
Creating a QR code that stands out and gets scanned is your secret to success.
Here are our top tips for making QR codes that capture your audience’s attention
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Go bold
Switch the traditional black-and-white palette for something more vibrant. Use your brand colors to make your QR code pop on your marketing materials.
Tip from our QR code design experts: Contrast is key. Ensure there's enough difference between the QR code and the background to maintain scannability.
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Add your logo
Customize your QR code with your logo and instill trust in your users. With our tool, you can place your logo on all types of QR codes. Our generator will position it perfectly for maximum impact.
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Play with shapes and patterns
Not all QR codes are created equally. Experiment with different patterns, frames, and corners to make your QR code as unique as your brand. Little design changes can make a big difference!
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Call your users to action
A CTA next to your QR code increases scan rates. Use compelling text that prompts immediate action. ‘Scan me’ or ‘Discover more here’. Drive curiosity and boost interactions in just a few words.
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Make it easy to access
Design your QR code with various users in mind. It should be easily scannable from a distance and by cameras of varying quality. Consider the size and placement of your QR code in your design, ensuring it's accessible for scanning.
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Track and analyze performance
Use QRNow analytics tools to track how often and where your QR code is scanned. This data can provide valuable insights into user engagement and help you refine future designs.
Creative Uses for QR Codes: Inspiration for Innovators
If you're making QR codes, you're tapping into a huge crowd. According to Statista, by 2025 more than 100 million smartphone users in the U.S. will scan a QR code with their phone.
Here are some of the ways you can benefit from this skyrocketing trend.
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Powerful donation drives
Non-profits can boost their fundraising efforts by linking QR codes to donation pages. Add scan-to-donate QR codes to promotional materials, event signage, or even social media to make it easier for supporters to contribute
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Digital wedding memories
Use an Image QR code to link to an online photo album or guest video message compilation. Embed codes in invitations or table settings, offering a unique, digital keepsake for your wedding guests. Wedding QR codes are among our top most-scanned!
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Supercharged sales strategy
More than 50% of our users generate QR codes to sell goods and services: It's the ultimate shortcut to driving conversions. Boost your e-commerce by connecting customers to additional info, exclusive deals with a Coupon QR Code, or instant purchasing options.
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Virtual business cards
Level up your networking game with QR codes! Create a vCard QR Code with all your contact info and a splash of personality. The vCard QR Code is one of our most popular options. Why? Because it’s eco-friendly, always up-to-date, and guarantees you'll never miss a connection
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Effortless event management
Make event access a breeze with our QR codes for PDFs! Whether it's tickets, schedules, or maps, guests can simply scan the code to access all the essential details instantly. Improve your event experience for everyone.
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Enhanced product packaging
Use PDF QR codes on product packaging to offer customers more value. Link to how-to guides, tutorial videos, or augmented reality features that let customers visualize products in their space before purchase.
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Curated content hubs
Make QR codes for links and offer users a simple way to access your content. Whether it's a compilation of your most popular blog posts, a selection of educational resources, or a variety of product reviews, it’s a great way to engage your users.
What Should I Check Before I Print My QR Code?
Testing across devices
Test your QR code under different conditions and with multiple devices. Check your design choices have not made it difficult to scan. Go back and make any final adjustments before printing and sharing your QR code with the world. When testing, remember you can also scan a QR code from a screenshot, not just from print
Size and scanning distance
Make sure your QR code’s minimum size is correct for the expected scanning distance. For close-up scans, that’s approximately 1 inch by 1 inch (2.5 × 2.5 cm).
Increase the size of your QR code for larger scanning distances, sticking to the 10:1 ratio of scanning distance to QR code size.
Print material and finish
The material and finish you choose for your QR code affect scannability. Go matte rather than glossy to reduce glare. If your QR code will be placed outdoors, make sure you opt for durable materials.
Placement and context
A clear, unobstructed area — known as the quiet zone — around your QR code makes it easier to scan.
Make sure your QR code is printed somewhere that’s accessible to your intended audience.
Error correction level
With a higher error correction level, up to 30%, your QR code will remain scannable even if part of it gets damaged or obscured. Check your QR code has the right correction level before going to print.
The Dos and Don'ts of Using QR Codes
Steer clear of common pitfalls and embrace best QR code practices with our quick guide.
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Do offer clear incentives for scanning, like discounts or exclusive content.
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Don’t leave users guessing about the benefits of scanning your QR code.
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Do ensure your linked content is mobile-friendly. Most users will access it with a smartphone.
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Don’t link to desktop-only websites or content that isn’t optimized for mobile viewing.
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Do use dynamic QR codes for content that might change over time, allowing updates without reprinting.
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Don’t use static QR codes for variable content, leading to outdated information.
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Do track and analyze your QR code scans to understand user engagement and improve future campaigns.
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Don’t neglect the data your QR codes can provide, missing out on valuable insights.
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Do test your QR code in the context it will be used, considering lighting, distance, and physical placement.
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Don’t skip real-world testing, which can reveal practical issues with scanning your QR code.
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Do keep the user experience in mind, ensuring the journey from scan to content is quick and rewarding.
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Don’t create a lengthy or complicated process post-scan that could frustrate users.
