QR Code Generator

Free online QR code generator. Create QR codes from text, URLs, or any content. Download as PNG with customizable size.

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About QR Code Generator

A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode invented by Denso Wave, a Toyota subsidiary, in 1994. Unlike traditional barcodes that store data in one dimension (vertical lines), QR codes store data in both horizontal and vertical dimensions, allowing them to hold significantly more information — up to 3KB of data.

QR codes support four data modes: numeric (digits 0-9, up to 7,089 characters), alphanumeric (digits, uppercase letters, and some symbols, up to 4,296 characters), byte/binary (any 8-bit data, up to 2,953 characters), and kanji/kana (Japanese characters, up to 1,817 characters). Most modern QR codes use byte mode to support Unicode text, URLs, and contact information.

Error correction is one of QR codes' most important features. There are four levels: L (7% recovery), M (15%), Q (25%), and H (30%). Higher error correction allows the code to be read even when partially damaged or obscured by logos or artwork. This is why you can place a logo in the center of a QR code and it still works — the error correction compensates.

QR codes have become ubiquitous in modern life — used for contactless payments, restaurant menus, event tickets, product packaging, WiFi sharing, and authentication. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated QR code adoption dramatically, making them a standard tool for reducing physical contact in everyday transactions.

This generator creates QR codes entirely in your browser using the qrcode library. It supports all standard QR code features and generates downloadable PNG images. The dark-on-light color scheme (white on dark background) follows current design conventions while maintaining scan reliability.

QR codes have evolved beyond simple URL storage into a platform for rich interactions. Modern use cases include WiFi credential sharing (connecting guests without typing passwords), cryptocurrency wallet addresses, contactless menu ordering in restaurants, digital business cards (vCard format), event check-in and ticketing, two-factor authentication setup keys, and product authentication verification. Each use case stores different types of data in the QR code, from simple text to structured data formats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I scan QR codes from a screen?

Yes. Modern smartphone cameras can scan QR codes from screens, not just printed materials. Ensure sufficient contrast and avoid reflections. A minimum size of 2cm (0.8 inches) is recommended for reliable scanning.

Is there a limit to how much data a QR code can store?

Yes. QR codes have a maximum capacity of about 3KB (2,953 bytes). For text, this is roughly 2,000-4,000 characters depending on the character set. For URLs, this is almost always sufficient — Google's URL shortening service creates URLs under 100 characters.

Can I customize QR code colors and add a logo?

Yes, QR codes can be customized with colors and logos while remaining scannable. The key requirement is sufficient contrast between the dark and light modules. Adding a logo in the center is possible because QR codes have built-in error correction that compensates for the obscured area.

What is the difference between QR codes and barcodes?

Barcodes store data in one dimension (horizontal lines) and hold limited information — typically a product ID. QR codes store data in two dimensions and can hold up to 3KB. QR codes also have error correction, can be scanned from any angle, and support multiple data types (numeric, alphanumeric, binary, kanji).

How do I generate a QR code for WiFi credentials?

Use the format WIFI:T:WPA;S:MyNetwork;P:MyPassword;; where T is the security type (WPA/WEP/nopass), S is the SSID, and P is the password. Modern smartphones recognize this format natively and offer to join the network when scanned.