How to Create a QR Code: Complete Guide
Creating a QR code is simple, fast, and free. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything from choosing the right QR type to customizing and downloading your QR code. Perfect for beginners and experienced users alike.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Choose Your QR Code Type
Different QR types serve different purposes. Select based on what you want to share:
- • URL: Link to websites, landing pages, or online content
- • WiFi: Share network credentials without typing passwords
- • vCard: Share complete contact information
- • Text: Display plain text messages
- • Email/SMS/Phone: Pre-fill communication apps
- • Payment: Accept UPI, PIX, PayPal, Bitcoin payments
Step 2: Enter Your Information
Fill in the required data fields accurately:
- • URLs: Include https:// for secure links
- • Contact Info: Double-check phone numbers and emails
- • WiFi: Verify network name and password spelling
- • Payments: Test payment IDs before printing
Pro Tip: Keep data concise. Shorter content creates simpler, more reliable QR codes.
Step 3: Customize Your QR Code
Make your QR code match your brand:
- • Logo: Upload company logo (keep under 20% of QR area)
- • Colors: Use dark foreground on light background
- • Contrast: Ensure minimum 3:1 contrast ratio
- • Style: Maintain sharp edges for scannability
Warning: Avoid light colors on white or inverted QR codes (white on black). These often fail to scan.
Step 4: Test Your QR Code
Before printing or distributing, test thoroughly:
- • Scan with your phone's camera app
- • Test on both iOS and Android devices
- • Verify the destination URL or data is correct
- • Check from different distances and angles
- • Test in various lighting conditions
Step 5: Download and Use
Download your QR code in the appropriate format:
- • PNG: Best for most uses (digital and print)
- • High Resolution: Use 300+ DPI for professional printing
- • Size: Minimum 2cm × 2cm for close viewing
- • Placement: Ensure adequate white space around code
Quick Tips for Success
✅ Do This
- • Test before mass printing
- • Use high contrast colors
- • Include call-to-action text
- • Size appropriately for distance
- • Protect from damage (laminate)
- • Keep destination URLs permanent
❌ Avoid This
- • Low contrast colors
- • Oversized logos (>20%)
- • Too small sizing
- • Temporary URLs
- • Poor print quality
- • No white space around code