QR Code Best Practices Guide
Everything you need to know to create reliable, high-quality QR codes for print and digital use.
Optimal QR Code Sizes
The right QR code size depends on how and where it will be used. A QR code that is too small will not scan reliably, especially from a distance.
| Use Case | Minimum Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Business cards | 2 cm (0.8 in) | Scanned at close range; keep data short |
| Flyers and brochures | 2.5 cm (1 in) | Ensure good contrast with surrounding design |
| Posters (A3/A2) | 5 cm (2 in) | Should scan from about 1 metre away |
| Signage and banners | 10+ cm (4+ in) | Rule of thumb: QR code width = scanning distance / 10 |
| Product packaging | 1.5 cm (0.6 in) | Use low-density data and high error correction |
| Digital screens | 160+ px | Depends on screen resolution and viewing distance |
Rule of thumb for signage: divide the expected scanning distance by 10. A QR code meant to be scanned from 3 metres away should be at least 30 cm wide.
Error Correction Levels Explained
QR codes include redundant data so they can still be read even when partially damaged or obscured. There are four error correction levels:
| Level | Recovery | Best For | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| L (Low) | ~7% damage | Clean digital displays, short URLs | Smallest QR code, least resilient |
| M (Medium) | ~15% damage | General purpose (default) | Good balance of size and resilience |
| Q (Quartile) | ~25% damage | Outdoor use, product labels | Slightly larger QR code |
| H (High) | ~30% damage | Harsh environments, logo overlays | Largest and densest QR code |
For most uses, Medium (M) is the best default. Use High (H) if the QR code will be printed on packaging that may get scuffed, or if you plan to overlay a small logo on the centre.
Colour and Contrast Requirements
QR code scanners work by detecting contrast between the dark modules and the light background. Poor contrast is the most common reason a QR code fails to scan.
- Minimum contrast ratio: 3:1. A ratio of 4:1 or higher is recommended for reliable scanning in all lighting conditions.
- Dark foreground on light background. This is the standard and most reliable configuration. Inverted QR codes (light on dark) may not scan on all devices.
- Avoid gradients and transparency. Each module should be a solid, uniform colour for maximum readability.
- Be cautious with red foregrounds. Some older scanners use red LED illumination and may struggle with red-on-white QR codes.
- Test on screen AND print. Colours that look fine on a screen may lose contrast when printed, especially on textured or coloured paper.
Testing Your QR Code
Always test your QR code before publishing or printing. A QR code that cannot be scanned wastes print costs and frustrates users.
- Test with multiple devices. Try at least one iPhone and one Android phone. Camera apps and third-party scanners behave differently.
- Test at the intended distance. If the QR code will be on a poster, step back to the expected scanning distance and try again.
- Test in different lighting. Indoor fluorescent lighting, natural daylight, and dim environments can all affect scanning.
- Test the final medium. Print a sample on the actual material (paper stock, sticker, packaging) before a full print run.
- Verify the destination. Scan the QR code and confirm the URL, phone number, or contact data is correct before distribution.
Common QR Code Types and Their Uses
| Type | Format | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| URL | https://... | Websites, landing pages, social media profiles |
| WiFi | WIFI:S:...;T:...;P:...;; | Guest WiFi access, cafes, hotels, offices |
| vCard | BEGIN:VCARD... | Business cards, networking events |
mailto:... | Customer support, feedback forms | |
| SMS | sms:...?body=... | Competitions, bookings, quick replies |
| Phone | tel:... | Business cards, signage, customer service |
| Text | Plain text | Serial numbers, notes, reference codes |
Print vs Digital QR Codes
For Print
- Export at 1024px or higher for crisp printing
- Use vector SVG format when possible for unlimited scaling
- Include a quiet zone of at least 2 modules (4 is better)
- Use high error correction (Q or H) to account for print imperfections
- Test on the actual print material before a full run
- Avoid placing on curved or textured surfaces
For Digital
- 256px to 512px is usually sufficient for screens
- PNG format works well for web and presentations
- Medium error correction (M) is fine for clean displays
- Ensure the QR code is large enough on mobile screens
- Avoid placing in carousels or auto-scrolling content
- Add a clear call-to-action near the QR code
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