QR Code Generator: Create Free Custom QR Codes for URLs, Wi-Fi, Email, and SMS
QR codes bridge the physical and digital worlds. A QR code on a business card instantly opens a website. A Wi-Fi QR code lets guests join your network without reading out a password. A QR code on a product links to instructions, reviews, or a support page.
Our generator creates all major QR code types with full customization — colors, size, error correction — and generates a clean PNG download ready for printing or digital use.
QR code data capacity decreases as error correction increases:
QR Code Use Cases by Type
URL: Link to website, product page, social profile, app store listing
Wi-Fi: Guest network access without sharing passwords verbally. Works on all modern iPhones and Android phones
Email: Pre-fill contact forms, support requests, or newsletter signups
Phone: Tap-to-call on business cards, flyers, and storefronts
SMS: Marketing opt-ins, support contact, appointment booking
Text: Instructions, product codes, event details, vCard-format contact info
Best Practices for Printable QR Codes
Use at least 2.5cm (1 inch) size for printed codes
Always test scan before printing in bulk
Use Quartile or High error correction for printed materials that may get worn
Ensure minimum 10:1 contrast ratio between foreground and background
Include a call-to-action text near the QR code (e.g., 'Scan to visit our site')
Add white quiet zone (margin) around the QR code for reliable scanning
Practical Examples
Business card QR code
- 1.Type: URL pointing to your LinkedIn or portfolio
- 2.Size: 256px (renders cleanly at 2.5cm)
- 3.Error correction: Medium or Quartile
Restaurant Wi-Fi QR code
- 1.Type: WIFI with network name and password
- 2.Place: On tables, menus, and welcome boards
- 3.Security: Customers join without seeing the password
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of QR codes can I generate?
Our generator supports URL QR codes (links), plain text, email (with pre-filled subject and body), phone number (tap to call), SMS (with pre-filled message), and Wi-Fi (tap to join a network automatically on Android and iOS).
What is error correction in QR codes?
Error correction determines how much of the QR code can be damaged or obscured while still being readable. Low (7%) creates the smallest, densest code. Medium (15%) is a good balance. Quartile (25%) and High (30%) are more robust but create larger, denser patterns. Use higher error correction when printing on materials that may get worn or partially covered (e.g., adding a logo over the center).
What size should my QR code be?
For digital use (websites, emails): 256px is sufficient. For print: calculate based on minimum scanning distance. A general rule is 1cm for every 10cm of scanning distance. Business cards (scanned from 15-30cm): at least 1.5-3cm. Posters: 3cm minimum. For downloading and printing, use the maximum size (512px) for best quality.
How do I create a Wi-Fi QR code?
Select the WIFI type, enter your network name (SSID) exactly as it appears in Wi-Fi settings, enter the password, and select the security type (WPA/WPA2 for most modern routers). When someone scans the QR code, their phone will prompt them to join the network automatically.
Can I customize the colors of my QR code?
Yes. You can change both the foreground (module) color and background color. Ensure sufficient contrast between the two colors for reliable scanning. Dark foreground on light background works best. Avoid light-on-light or similar contrast ratios.
Is my data stored or sent to a server?
No. All QR code generation happens locally in your browser using the qrcode.js library. Your URLs, Wi-Fi passwords, phone numbers, and other data never leave your device.
What image format is the download?
QR codes are downloaded as PNG files, which is ideal for printing and digital use. PNG preserves the sharp edges of the QR code modules without compression artifacts, ensuring reliable scanning.
Why won't my QR code scan?
Common causes: insufficient contrast between foreground and background colors, too much data for the selected size (increase size or error correction), damaged or obscured modules (increase error correction), inverted colors (dark background with light foreground works less reliably on some scanners). Try increasing the error correction level first.