qr_code Generator
QR Code Generator
Generate QR codes for URLs, text, contact info, Wi-Fi credentials, or any data. Customize size, colors, and error correction. Download as PNG. Your data is processed entirely in your browser.
What Is a QR Code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores data in a matrix of black and white squares. Developed in 1994 for tracking automotive parts, QR codes are now used universally to encode URLs, contact information, payment data, Wi-Fi credentials, and plain text. Smartphones can scan them instantly without a dedicated reader app.
What Can You Encode?
- URLs — Paste any web address. The QR code will open the URL in a browser when scanned.
- Plain text — Notes, instructions, product information, or any text content up to ~2,900 characters.
- Email — Format:
mailto:email@example.com - Phone number — Format:
tel:+15551234567 - Wi-Fi credentials — Format:
WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:password;; - SMS — Format:
smsto:+15551234567:Your message here - vCard / contact info — Use a vCard-formatted string for contact sharing.
Error Correction Levels Explained
- L (Low, 7%) — Maximum data density. Use when the QR code will be clean and undamaged.
- M (Medium, 15%) — A good balance for most uses. Recommended for online use.
- Q (Quartile, 25%) — Better recovery from damage. Good for print on physical media.
- H (High, 30%) — Maximum damage recovery. Use when adding a logo overlay or for industrial/outdoor applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my data sent to a server?
No. The QR code is generated entirely in your browser using a JavaScript implementation of the QR code standard. Your text and URLs never leave your device.
Can I use colored QR codes?
Yes, but ensure sufficient contrast between the foreground and background colors. Low contrast (e.g., light gray on white) may cause scanners to fail. Dark foreground on light background is most reliable. Avoid very light foregrounds or very dark backgrounds.
What is the maximum data a QR code can hold?
A QR code can hold up to 7,089 numeric characters, 4,296 alphanumeric characters, or 2,953 bytes of binary data at version 40 (the largest version) with the lowest error correction. In practice, shorter content (especially URLs under 100 characters) produces smaller, denser QR codes that are easier to scan.
What size should I print my QR code?
For reliable scanning, the QR code should be at least 2cm × 2cm (about 0.8 inches) in print. Business cards typically use 2–3 cm. Billboards and posters can use much larger sizes since scanners may be far away. Use the XL size option and download at high resolution for large-format printing.