Guide · Updated 2026-10-06
How to Make a QR Code for Free
Create a QR code for a link or text, choose the right size and make sure it scans.
A QR code is a square barcode that phones can scan to open a link, show text or join Wi-Fi. They are handy on menus, flyers, packaging and business cards.
Steps
- Open the QR Code Generator.
- Enter your link or text.
- Choose a size. Use 512 pixels or more for print.
- Download the PNG or SVG file.
Make it scan reliably
- Keep strong contrast. Dark code on a light background works best.
- Leave a blank margin around the code.
- Test with more than one phone before printing.
- Use a higher error-correction level if you plan to add a logo.
Want to measure scans in Google Analytics? Add campaign tags with the UTM Link Builder before generating the code.
What can a QR code contain?
- A website link, the most common use.
- Plain text, a phone number or an email address.
- Wi-Fi details so guests can join without typing a password.
- A contact card or a calendar event.
Sizes for print
Scanning works reliably when a code is at least 2 cm wide for close-range use, such as on a business card. For signs, a useful rule is about one tenth of the scanning distance: a code scanned from 2 metres away should be around 20 cm wide. Export at 512 pixels or more, or choose SVG for large prints so it stays sharp.
Static versus tracked codes
A QR code made with this tool encodes your link directly, so it never expires and never depends on a third party. If you want to measure scans, add UTM parameters to the link first so visits show up in your analytics.
Frequently asked questions
Do QR codes expire? Not these. The link is stored in the pattern itself. It only stops working if the destination page goes away.
Can I put a logo in the middle? Yes, if you use a high error-correction level, but test the result on several phones before printing.