QR Code Generator

What this QR Code Generator does

This tool lets you create QR codes directly in your browser. You can encode website URLs, plain text, contact information, or Wi‑Fi credentials, customize the size and foreground color, and then download a PNG image to print or share. Everything is generated on your device, so the data you type is not uploaded to a server.

Use it for menu links, posters, product labels, tickets, business cards, or quick personal notes. As soon as you enter your content and click the button, a scannable QR preview appears below the form; you can then download it as an image.

How QR codes work (and what this tool generates)

A QR (Quick Response) code is a two‑dimensional barcode made of small black and white squares arranged on a grid. When you scan the code with a smartphone camera or a QR reader app, the pattern is decoded back into data, usually text such as a URL or simple message.

The QR codes produced by this generator follow the same concept: your input is converted into a matrix of modules (squares). Error correction is added so that the code can still be read if it is slightly damaged, dirty, or partially covered in real use.

Conceptually, a QR code stores bits (0s and 1s) in a grid. One simple way to think about this is as a matrix of values where black squares represent 1 and white squares represent 0:

Real QR codes are larger and follow a detailed standard, but this simplified view helps explain why image clarity, contrast, and size all matter for reliable scanning.

How to use this QR Code Generator step by step

1. Enter the content to encode in the text area.
   • Examples: https://yourdomain.com/promo, a short instruction like “Show this QR at the door”, or Wi‑Fi details such as WIFI:S:NetworkName;T:WPA;P:password;;.
   • The content is treated as plain text. If it is a valid URL, most phones will offer to open it in a browser automatically.
2. Choose an image size in pixels.
   • Common choices: 200–300 px for screens, 300–500 px if you plan to print on flyers or small posters.
   • Larger images create bigger physical codes, which can be easier to scan from a distance.
3. Select a foreground color for the QR modules.
   • Black on a white background provides the best contrast and most reliable scanning.
   • If you use another color, make sure it is dark enough against a light background.
4. Click the Generate button to create the QR code.
   • A preview canvas appears or updates below the form.
   • If the preview looks too small or too large, adjust the size value and generate again.
5. Download the PNG.
   • Use the provided Download button to save the QR code as a PNG file.
   • You can then insert this file into documents, presentations, or designs, or print it directly.

What you can encode with this tool

The generator accepts any text, so you can create many types of QR codes without changing settings:

• Website URLs – link to landing pages, menus, product pages, support articles, or app download pages.
• Plain text messages – short instructions, coupon codes, or welcome notes.
• Wi‑Fi network details – encode SSID and password in standard Wi‑Fi QR format so guests can connect by scanning.
• Contact details (vCard style) – store a name, phone, email, and address in text form so phones can save them as a contact.
• Event links – URLs to registration pages, calendar entries hosted online, or livestream links.

For best results, keep the encoded content as short as possible. Shorter data produces less dense QR codes, which scan more reliably, especially on older phones or low‑quality prints.

Interpreting the generated QR code

After you generate a code, the preview image represents exactly what will be encoded in the downloaded PNG. The following points help you interpret and verify the result:

• URL content – if you embedded a link, scanning the code should show that URL on your phone before you open it. Check that the domain, path, and tracking parameters are correct.
• Text content – if you encoded a message or Wi‑Fi string, the scanner should display the full text. Make sure there are no typos, missing characters, or trailing spaces.
• Size and clarity – zoom in on the preview. Individual squares (modules) should look crisp and not blurry or distorted. If you see heavy blur at normal viewing size, consider using a larger pixel size.
• Color and contrast – dark modules on a light background are key. Avoid very light foreground colors, as they may not be detected by some cameras.

Always scan the preview QR code with one or more devices before publishing or printing it widely. This quick test can catch mistakes in the encoded content and reveal if the design is hard to read.

Comparison: common QR code use cases

Different scenarios call for different QR content, sizes, and placements. The table below compares some typical uses and offers quick guidance.

Best practices for printing and sharing

• Maintain a clear margin – leave a light, empty border around the QR code (often called the “quiet zone”) so scanners can distinguish it from surrounding graphics.
• Avoid distortion – do not stretch the image non‑uniformly. Resize it while keeping the original square aspect ratio.
• Check final output – if you place the PNG into design software or a document, export or print a sample and scan that version, not just the original file.
• Use high‑resolution prints – grainy or low‑resolution printing can blur small modules. When in doubt, print the QR code slightly larger.
• Help users understand the action – add a short label such as “Scan for menu” or “Scan to visit our site” near the code so people know what will happen.

Privacy: local QR generation in your browser

This generator is designed to run entirely on the client side. The text or URLs you enter are processed by JavaScript in your browser and encoded into a QR image locally. Under normal operation, your input is not sent to a remote server and is not stored by this tool.

Because everything happens in your browser session, closing the page clears the working state of the generator. If you refresh or navigate away, you may need to re‑enter your content to create a new code.

Limitations and assumptions

While this QR Code Generator is flexible and convenient, there are practical limits and assumptions you should be aware of:

• Data length – very long text or URLs produce dense QR codes with many small squares. These can be harder to scan, especially when printed small. As a rule, prefer short URLs (you can shorten them before encoding) and concise messages.
• No content validation – the tool does not check whether a URL is safe, working, or correctly formatted. Always confirm that links and text are accurate before sharing.
• No built‑in analytics – QR codes generated here do not track how many times they are scanned. To measure engagement, use analytics on the destination page (for example, UTM parameters and your own analytics platform).
• Device and app differences – most modern smartphones can scan QR codes via the camera app, but behavior varies by device and operating system. Some may prompt before opening a URL; others may require a separate QR reader app.
• Color and design constraints – highly stylized codes, low contrast combinations, or busy backgrounds may look attractive but can reduce scan reliability. This tool focuses on standard, high‑readability codes.
• No password or encryption – the data in a QR code is not encrypted by default. Anyone can scan and read it. Avoid embedding sensitive information such as private passwords or confidential personal data in publicly visible codes.

Frequently asked questions

Is my text or URL stored on your servers?

No. The generator runs in your browser and encodes the data locally. The text or URLs you enter are not uploaded to the server by this tool.

Do QR codes generated here expire?

No. A QR code image does not expire on its own. As long as the printed or digital image remains readable and the underlying content (such as a URL) is still valid, the code will continue to work.

Can I use these QR codes commercially?

Yes, you can usually use QR codes in commercial contexts such as marketing materials, product packaging, or signage. However, you are responsible for the content you encode and any legal or brand requirements that apply in your situation.

What size should I print a QR code?

For nearby scanning (for example at a table or on a flyer), a printed size of around 3–5 cm on each side is often sufficient. For posters or longer viewing distances, increase the size so that the code is easy to center in the camera frame. Always test with a physical printout before large runs.

How can I track how many times a QR code is scanned?

This tool does not track scans. To measure usage, point your QR code to a URL that includes tracking parameters (such as UTM tags) and review visits in your analytics platform. You can also direct scans to a redirect page on your site where you log visits before sending users on to the final destination.