QR code best practices

Test before sharing, size and contrast guidelines, and quiet-zone tips for reliable QR codes.

A QR code often ends up in print, signage, or other physical media where a mistake cannot be fixed after publication. A little care up front keeps your codes reliable.

Test before sharing

Always scan your QR code with multiple devices before sharing it, and confirm it opens the correct URL. This tool reminds you to test every code you generate.

Use a large enough size

Print the code at at least 2×2 cm (0.8×0.8 in). The more data a code holds, the denser it is, and the larger it needs to be to scan reliably.

Maintain high contrast

Keep strong contrast between the dark modules and the light background. Dark-on-light (the default here) is the most reliable combination.

Keep the quiet zone

Leave white space — a “quiet zone” — around the code so scanners can isolate it from surrounding content. Do not crowd it with text or graphics.

A note on logos

Adding a center logo is popular for branding. Because this tool uses the highest error-correction level, a small centered logo is safe — but keep it small and always re-test a code that includes one.