QR Code Generator

Create a QR code online

A QR code is a two-dimensional symbol that stores text, a URL, or other data in a pattern of light and dark modules. Enter the exact content you want scanners to return, customize the design, and download the result as PNG, JPG, SVG, or WebP.

The generated image contains the data itself; this tool does not create a hosted short link or make the destination editable later. If you encode a URL and that URL changes, generate a new code unless you control a redirect at the encoded address.

How to generate a scannable QR code

1. Enter a URL, plain text, contact instruction, or other content.
2. Select the image format, size, padding, and error-correction level.
3. Customize the dots, corner patterns, foreground, and background if needed.
4. Optionally add a logo or image, keeping enough of the QR pattern visible.
5. Generate the code and test the downloaded image with more than one scanner before publishing or printing it.

SVG is useful when the code must scale cleanly for print. PNG is a convenient choice for websites and documents. Regardless of format, preserve a clear margin and avoid resizing raster images in a way that blurs individual modules.

Error correction and design

QR Code defines four error-correction levels: L, M, Q, and H. Higher levels can recover more damaged codewords, but they also require more modules for the same input. DENSO WAVE describes approximate restoration rates of 7%, 15%, 25%, and 30% respectively. This generator defaults to Q.

Error correction helps with limited dirt, damage, or an overlaid logo; it does not guarantee that an aggressively styled code will scan. Maintain strong contrast, avoid distorting the square modules, and leave a quiet area around the symbol. The QR Code specification calls for a four-module-wide quiet zone.

See DENSO WAVE’s explanations of QR Code error correction and the required code area.

QR code generator FAQ

Can a QR code contain private information?

A standard QR code is not encrypted. Anyone who can scan or photograph it may be able to read its content, so do not place secrets, passwords, or private personal data in a publicly visible code.

Why is my QR code difficult to scan?

Common causes include low contrast, insufficient padding, a logo covering too much of the pattern, a physically small print, a blurred image, or too much encoded data. Simplify the design and test at the intended display or print size.

Does a QR code expire?

The symbol itself has no expiration date. A code that contains text remains readable, while a code containing a URL only remains useful as long as the destination continues to work.