QR Code Best Practices
Follow these guidelines to create QR codes that scan reliably every time
Size Guidelines
Minimum Size Requirements
The absolute minimum size for a printed QR code is 2cm x 2cm (0.8" x 0.8"), but larger is always better for reliability.
Business Cards: 2.5cm x 2.5cm (1" x 1") minimum
Flyers & Brochures: 3cm x 3cm (1.2" x 1.2") recommended
Posters: 5cm x 5cm (2" x 2") or larger
Billboards: Scale up proportionally to viewing distance
Viewing Distance Rule
A good rule of thumb: QR code size should be at least 10% of the scanning distance. If someone scans from 50cm away, the code should be at least 5cm.
Digital Displays
For screens, ensure the QR code takes up at least 256x256 pixels when displayed. Higher resolutions (512px+) provide better scanning.
Color & Contrast
High Contrast is Essential
QR codes rely on the contrast between foreground and background colors to be scannable. Poor contrast is the #1 reason QR codes fail to scan.
✓ Good Contrast
- • Black on white
- • White on black
- • Dark blue on light yellow
- • Dark green on white
✗ Poor Contrast
- • Yellow on white
- • Light gray on white
- • Pastel colors
- • Similar shades of same color
Important Color Rules
- 1.Foreground (data) must be darker than background
- 2.Avoid inverted QR codes (light on dark) on reflective surfaces
- 3.Test printed codes in different lighting conditions
- 4.Never use transparent or gradient backgrounds
Error Correction Levels
Error correction allows QR codes to be scanned even when partially damaged or obscured. Higher levels mean more redundancy but also more complex codes.
Low (L) - 7% recovery
Best for clean, controlled environments
Use for:
- Digital displays
- Indoor signage
- Short-term use
Medium (M) - 15% recovery
Recommended for most applications
Use for:
- Business cards
- Flyers & brochures
- General marketing
Quartile (Q) - 25% recovery
Good for challenging conditions
Use for:
- Outdoor signage
- Product packaging
- Long-term use
High (H) - 30% recovery
Maximum damage resistance
Use for:
- Industrial environments
- Adding logos to QR codes
- Harsh conditions
Quiet Zone (White Space)
The quiet zone is the empty space around a QR code. It's essential for scanners to detect the code's boundaries.
Minimum requirement: 4 modules (pixels) of white space on all sides
Recommended: 6-8 modules for better reliability
In practice: If your QR code is 100px, add at least 16px of white space around it
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- ✗ Placing QR codes directly against colored backgrounds
- ✗ Cropping too close to the edge
- ✗ Overlapping with other design elements
- ✗ Adding borders that touch the QR code
Testing & Validation
Always Test Before Mass Production
Testing is crucial. A QR code that doesn't scan is worse than no QR code at all.
Test with multiple devices
Try both iOS and Android devices, different camera apps, and third-party QR scanners to ensure broad compatibility.
Test in various lighting
Check scannability in bright sunlight, dim lighting, and under artificial light. Glossy finishes can cause glare issues.
Test at actual size
Print a sample at the final size and test from realistic scanning distances. What works on screen may not work printed.
Test from different angles
Ensure the code scans when tilted or viewed at an angle, especially for vertical signage or wall-mounted displays.
Verify the destination
Always scan the code yourself to confirm it leads to the correct URL or displays the right information.
Placement & Context
Strategic Placement
- ✓Eye level: Place QR codes at average adult eye height (150-170cm)
- ✓Accessible: Ensure people can comfortably stand and scan without obstacles
- ✓Flat surfaces: Avoid curved surfaces that distort the code
- ✓Well-lit: Ensure adequate lighting for camera focus
- ✓Protected: Use protective coatings for outdoor or high-traffic areas
Provide Context
Never assume people know what to do with a QR code. Always include a clear call-to-action.
Good examples:
- • "Scan to view menu"
- • "Scan for 10% discount"
- • "Scan to connect to WiFi"
- • "Scan to watch video tutorial"
File Format Selection
PNG Format
Raster (pixel-based) image format
Best for:
- • Websites and emails
- • Social media posts
- • Digital displays
- • Fixed-size applications
Recommended sizes:
- • Web: 256-512px
- • Print: 1024px minimum
- • High-DPI displays: 2x intended size
SVG Format
Vector (scalable) image format
Best for:
- • Professional printing
- • Large format (posters, banners)
- • Responsive designs
- • When size is unknown
Advantages:
- • Infinite scalability
- • Smaller file size
- • Perfect quality at any size
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Always follow minimum size guidelines. Bigger is better for reliability.
Light colors on white or similar shades are nearly impossible to scan.
Never print thousands of copies without testing with real devices first.
Glare can prevent scanning. Use matte finishes when possible.
Longer data creates more complex codes. Use URL shorteners for better scannability.
Always leave adequate white space around the QR code for detection.
Tell users why they should scan and what to expect. Add a clear CTA.