QR Code Generator
Create customizable QR codes for URLs, WiFi, contacts, and more. Download as PNG or SVG.
Why I Built This QR Generator
I needed a quick way to generate QR codes without signing up for yet another service. Most online QR generators want your email, add watermarks, or limit you to a few codes per day. This one runs entirely in your browser - no account, no limits, no tracking.
I use this constantly: WiFi codes for the office, vCards for business cards, URLs for print materials. The SVG export is particularly useful when I need to scale the code up for posters or banners without pixelation.
How I Actually Use It
My typical workflow: pick the data type, fill in the details, and download. I usually go with SVG for anything that might be printed, PNG for digital use. The color customization comes in handy when I need the QR code to match brand guidelines.
- WiFi sharing - I print these and stick them on the router. Guests scan and connect.
- Contact cards - vCard QR codes on business cards. Much better than manual typing.
- Event registration - URLs with UTM parameters for tracking.
- Documentation - Quick links to online resources from printed manuals.
If I'm encoding URLs, I sometimes run them through the URL Encoderfirst to handle special characters. For tracking purposes, I'll generate a unique ID with the UUID Generator to include in the URL.
Different QR Code Types I Use
WiFi QR Codes
These are probably my favorite use case. I put one in the guest room, one in the office reception. Visitors scan it and they're connected - no more spelling out complicated passwords. Just make sure you set the right encryption type (WPA2 for most networks).
vCard QR Codes
I got tired of exchanging business cards and then manually typing contact info. Now I put a QR code on my card - scan it and the contact goes straight into your phone. Name, email, phone, company, website - all in one scan.
Email and Phone QR Codes
Great for support scenarios. Scan the code and it opens your email app with the address already filled in. I've used phone QR codes on equipment labels - scan to call support.
SMS QR Codes
Less common, but useful for opt-in campaigns. Scan the code, it opens your messaging app with a pre-filled text. I've seen these on event posters for RSVP systems.
Error Correction: When It Matters
Here's something I learned the hard way: error correction level matters more than you'd think. If you're printing QR codes that might get damaged (outdoor signs, stickers that peel), use a higher level.
- L (7%) - Smallest code, but fragile. Fine for screens.
- M (15%) - My default for most use cases.
- Q (25%) - Good for printed materials that might get worn.
- H (30%) - Use this if you want to put a logo in the center.
Tips From Actual Use
After generating hundreds of QR codes for various projects, here's what I've learned:
- Keep URLs short - Use link shorteners if needed. Shorter = simpler code = easier scan.
- Test on multiple devices - What scans fine on your iPhone might fail on an older Android.
- Maintain contrast - Dark on light works best. Inverted colors can be tricky.
- Mind the quiet zone - That white border around the code? Don't crop it out.
- Size matters - 2cm minimum for close scanning. Bigger for billboards and posters.
Related Articles
- How to Create QR Codes: Complete Guide for Developers and Marketers
- QR Codes for Developers: Beyond Simple Links
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these QR codes really free?
Yes, completely free. No watermarks, no limits, no catch. I built this because I was tired of tools that nickel-and-dime you for basic functionality. Use them for personal or commercial projects - I don't mind.
Do the QR codes expire?
Nope. These are static QR codes - the data is encoded directly in the pattern. Dynamic QR codes (the kind that track scans) can expire because they redirect through a service. These don't do that.
How much data can I put in a QR code?
Technically up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters, but I wouldn't push it. More data means denser patterns that are harder to scan, especially on older phones. For URLs, I try to stay under 100 characters.
Can I add a logo to the QR code?
Not directly in this tool, but here's my workaround: download the SVG, open it in Figma or Illustrator, and drop a small logo in the center. Just use high error correction (H) so the code stays scannable despite the obstruction.
My QR code won't scan - what's wrong?
Usually one of these: not enough contrast between colors, code is too small, the quiet zone got cropped, or you stuffed too much data in. Start with black on white, decent size, and short content. Then get fancy.