QR Code Generator

Free Online QR Code Generator

Create QR codes instantly in your browser. Encode any text, URL, email address, phone number, or Wi-Fi credentials into a scannable QR code. All processing happens locally in your browser — your data never leaves your device, and generated QR codes are completely free for any use.

What Is a QR Code?

A QR (Quick Response) code is a two-dimensional matrix barcode that stores data in a grid of black and white modules (squares). Invented in 1994 by Masahiro Hara at Denso Wave in Japan, QR codes were originally designed for tracking automotive parts. Today they are used worldwide for contactless payments, digital menus, product packaging, event tickets, Wi-Fi sharing, and much more.

Unlike traditional barcodes that store data in one dimension (lines), QR codes store data in both horizontal and vertical directions. This allows them to hold significantly more information — up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or 7,089 numeric digits, depending on the version and error correction level.

Error Correction Levels

QR codes include Reed-Solomon error correction, allowing them to be scanned even when partially damaged, dirty, or obscured. Choose the level based on your use case:

• Low (L) — 7% recovery — Smallest QR code size. Best for clean, digital-only environments (screens, clean print).
• Medium (M) — 15% recovery — The default for most use cases. Good balance of size and resilience.
• Quartile (Q) — 25% recovery — Recommended for printed materials that may get folded, scratched, or smudged.
• High (H) — 30% recovery — Maximum error correction. Required when adding a logo overlay to the center of the QR code, as the logo effectively "damages" that area.

Real-World Use Cases

• Website URLs — Print QR codes on business cards, flyers, and posters to direct people to your website. Include UTM parameters for tracking: https://example.com?utm_source=flyer
• Wi-Fi Sharing — Encode your network credentials in the format WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;; and guests can connect by scanning.
• vCards (Contact Info) — Encode your contact details so people can add you to their phone with a scan.
• Restaurant Menus — Link to digital menus from table cards. Easy to update without reprinting.
• Event Tickets — Generate unique QR codes for entry validation at events and conferences.
• Payments — Many payment systems (PayPal, Venmo, bank transfers) use QR codes to initiate transactions.

Tips for QR Code Design

• Keep URLs short — shorter data creates smaller, more easily scannable QR codes. Use URL shorteners if needed.
• Maintain high contrast between foreground and background. Dark-on-light works best; avoid light-on-dark as some scanners struggle with inverted codes.
• Always test your QR code on multiple devices before printing or publishing.
• Include a quiet zone (white space) of at least 4 modules around the QR code for reliable scanning.
• For print materials, use at least 2cm × 2cm (0.8" × 0.8") at normal viewing distance. Larger for billboards and signage.

Features

• 100% browser-based — No server required. Your data stays private.
• Custom colors — Choose any foreground and background color combination.
• 4 error correction levels — From Low (7%) to High (30%) recovery.
• Multiple sizes — Export in small to extra-large dimensions.
• PNG download — Save QR codes in high-quality PNG format.
• Zero dependencies — Built with pure vanilla JavaScript, no external libraries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these QR codes free to use?

Yes, completely free with no restrictions. QR codes generated here can be used commercially, on print materials, websites, merchandise, or anywhere else. The QR code standard is open and patent-free.

Is my data stored?

No. The QR code is generated entirely in your browser using JavaScript. No data is sent to any server. This makes it safe to encode sensitive information like Wi-Fi passwords.

What is the maximum amount of data a QR code can store?

QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or 7,089 numeric characters. However, more data means a larger, denser QR code that's harder to scan. For best results, keep content under 300 characters.

Why can't some phones scan my QR code?

Common causes: insufficient contrast between foreground and background, QR code too small for the scanning distance, not enough quiet zone (white border), or very old phones without built-in QR scanning. Test with multiple devices before mass-producing materials.

Can I add a logo to my QR code?

Yes — but you need to set error correction to High (H) so the QR code can still be scanned with the center partially obscured. The logo should cover no more than 30% of the QR code area. This feature is not yet built into this tool but may be added in the future.