QR Code Generator
Generate QR codes for URLs, text, Wi-Fi credentials, and more — download as PNG, no account needed.
Keep logos small — QR error correction handles ~30% of data
What is a QR code?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information as a pattern of black and white squares. Originally invented in 1994 by Denso Wave for tracking automotive parts, QR codes are now used everywhere — from restaurant menus and payment apps to product packaging and event tickets.
Unlike traditional barcodes that only store data horizontally, QR codes store data both horizontally and vertically. This allows them to hold hundreds of times more information — up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters — in a compact, scannable format.
Modern smartphones can scan QR codes natively with their camera app, making them an extremely accessible way to share URLs, contact information, Wi-Fi passwords, payment details, and more.
QR code error correction levels
QR codes include built-in error correction that allows them to be read even if part of the code is damaged, dirty, or obscured. There are four error correction levels:
- L — Low (7% recovery): The smallest QR code. Use when the code will be printed cleanly and you want to maximize data density. Best for digital displays.
- M — Medium (15% recovery): The default and most commonly used level. Good balance between size and resilience.
- Q — Quartile (25% recovery): Recommended when you plan to overlay a logo or image in the center of the QR code.
- H — High (30% recovery): Maximum error correction. Creates the largest QR code but can survive significant damage. Use for industrial or outdoor printing.
Higher error correction levels result in larger, denser QR codes because more redundant data is added. For most web and print uses, M level is the right choice.
Common QR code uses
QR codes are versatile and can encode many types of information:
- Website URLs: The most common use. Link physical materials — business cards, posters, packaging — directly to web pages without users having to type a URL.
- Wi-Fi credentials: Share your Wi-Fi network name and password without typing.
Format:
WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:password;; - Contact information (vCard): Share your name, phone, email, and address in one
scan. Format begins with
BEGIN:VCARD. - Payment links: Link to PayPal, Venmo, or cryptocurrency wallet addresses for easy payments.
- App downloads: Direct users to your app on the App Store or Google Play.
- Event tickets: Encode booking references or ticket IDs for fast check-in.
- Plain text: Share a message, code, or any information that doesn't need to be a URL.
This generator runs entirely in your browser — no data is sent to any server. Your content stays private.