QR code generator
Turn any link or text into a QR code. Free, no sign-up, and the code never expires.
Links, plain text, phone numbers or email addresses all work.
Preview
Your QR code appears here as you type.
Made in your browser. Scan it with your phone before you print it.
Style
Survives about 15% damage. Higher levels make the code denser.
The basics
How QR codes work
A QR code stores text in a grid of black and white squares. Phone cameras recognise the three large corner squares, read the grid and act on what's inside: open a link, show text, join a Wi-Fi network or save a contact.
The more content you put in, the more squares the code needs. A short link makes a simple, easy-to-scan code; a long one makes a dense code that needs to be printed bigger. If your link is long, a shorter version (for example without tracking parameters you don't need) gives a cleaner code.
Static codes: no expiry, no tracking
Many QR code sites give you a dynamic code that points to their own server, which then redirects to your link. That lets them count scans, but it also means the code stops working if you stop paying or the service shuts down, and every scan is logged.
QRCraftr makes static codes. Your link is inside the code itself, so it works forever, loads instantly and nobody sees who scans it. If you need to change where a printed code points, link it to a page on your own website that you can update.
Tips for codes that scan every time
- Keep contrast high. Dark code on a light background is read by every scanner.
- Leave the quiet zone. The empty border around the code helps cameras find it.
- Size it for the distance. At least 2 cm across for close scanning; about a tenth of the scanning distance for posters.
- Test before you print with a couple of different phones, in the light where it will hang.
- Tell people what they get: "Scan for the menu" works better than a bare code.
More generators
QR codes for Wi-Fi and contacts
Wi-Fi QR codeLet guests join your network with a scan. vCard QR codeShare contact details that save straight to a phone.
Frequently asked questions
Do these QR codes expire?
No. QRCraftr makes static QR codes: the link or text is stored in the code itself. There is no redirect service in between that could stop working or start charging, so the code works for as long as the link does.
Can I see how many people scanned my code?
Not with a static code, and that is by design: scanning never contacts us. If you need scan statistics, add campaign parameters (such as utm_source=poster) to your link and see the visits in your own website analytics.
Can I use the QR codes commercially?
Yes. The codes are yours to use on packaging, flyers, menus or anything else, free and without attribution. "QR Code" is a registered trademark of DENSO WAVE, the company that invented the format.
Should I download PNG or SVG?
Use SVG for print and design tools: it scales to any size without getting blurry. Use PNG for websites, documents and apps that don't accept SVG; choose 1024 or 2048 pixels for print.
Which error correction level should I choose?
Medium suits most uses. Choose High if the code may get scratched, printed small on rough material, or partly covered, for example by a logo. Higher levels make the code denser, so keep Low or Medium for long links.
How small can I print a QR code?
A good rule of thumb is at least 2 × 2 cm (0.8 inches) for a short link scanned from close by. Scale up for longer content and for scanning at a distance: roughly one tenth of the scanning distance.
Is what I type stored anywhere?
No. The QR code is generated in your browser. Your link or text is never sent to a server, and nothing is saved.