Start with the final destination
A QR code is only as useful as the page or text it opens. Before generating one, check that the destination is correct, public, and easy to read on a phone.
For websites, use the full URL including https. For printed material, avoid links that may change soon unless you control the redirect destination.
- Use a short, stable URL
- Test the page on mobile
- Avoid private links or temporary preview URLs
Choose enough contrast
QR scanners need clear contrast between the code and background. Dark code on a light background is the safest choice, especially for print.
Custom colors can work well, but very pale foreground colors or busy backgrounds can make scanning unreliable.
- Keep the background plain
- Leave a visible margin around the code
- Test the image after resizing
Generate and test the code
After creating the QR code, scan it with more than one phone camera if possible. This catches mistakes before you add the code to packaging, signage, or marketing material.
If the code will be printed small, use a higher error correction setting and download a clean PNG file.