QR Code Generator
Our free QR code generator allows you to create QR codes for various purposes including URLs, plain text, WiFi networks, contact information (vCard), email, SMS, phone numbers, and more. Customize QR code size, error correction level, and colors. All QR codes are generated locally in your browser - your data never leaves your device.
Important Notes:
- All QR code generation is performed locally in your browser - your data never leaves your device.
- Higher error correction levels create denser QR codes but allow for more damage before becoming unreadable.
- QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or 2,953 bytes of binary data.
- Larger QR codes with higher error correction are easier to scan from a distance.
- Custom colors may reduce QR code readability - test before using in production.
- This tool supports all standard QR code data types including URLs, text, WiFi, vCard, and more.
Understanding QR Codes: A Complete Guide
QR (Quick Response) codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store various types of data. They're widely used for marketing, payments, authentication, and information sharing. Understanding how QR codes work helps you use them effectively.
What is a QR Code?
A QR code is a matrix barcode that can be read by smartphones and QR code readers. It consists of black squares arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can encode information in both horizontal and vertical directions.
QR Code Components
- Finder patterns: Three squares in corners for orientation
- Alignment patterns: Help correct distortion
- Timing patterns: Help determine coordinates
- Format information: Error correction level and mask
- Data area: Encoded information
- Quiet zone: White border around code
Common QR Code Uses
- URLs: Link to websites
- WiFi: Share network credentials
- Contact info: vCard format
- Email/SMS: Pre-filled messages
- Payments: Bitcoin, payment links
- Location: GPS coordinates
QR Code Data Types
QR codes can encode various types of data, each with its own format and use case.
Supported Data Types
Text & URLs
- Plain text messages
- Website URLs
- Custom data
WiFi Networks
- Network name (SSID)
- Password
- Security type (WPA/WEP)
Contact Information
- vCard format
- Name, phone, email
- Address, website
Communication
- Email with subject/body
- SMS with phone number
- Phone call links
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I encode in a QR code?
QR codes can encode text, URLs, WiFi network credentials, contact information (vCard), email addresses, phone numbers, SMS messages, GPS locations, calendar events, Bitcoin addresses, and more. The maximum capacity depends on the data type and error correction level.
What is error correction level?
Error correction allows QR codes to be read even if partially damaged or obscured. Levels range from L (7% recovery) to H (30% recovery). Higher levels create denser codes but allow more damage. Medium (M) is recommended for most uses.
How do I scan a QR code?
Most modern smartphones have built-in QR code scanners in their cameras. Simply open your camera app and point it at the QR code. You can also use dedicated QR code scanner apps available on app stores.
Are QR codes secure?
QR codes themselves don't provide security - they're just data encoding. Always verify the content before scanning QR codes from unknown sources, as malicious codes can redirect to harmful websites. For sensitive data, use encrypted QR codes or additional security measures.