QR Code Best Practices & Tips

Create QR codes that scan perfectly every time with these expert guidelines

📏 Optimal Size and Resolution

Print Guidelines

• Minimum: 2x2 cm (0.8x0.8 inches)
• Recommended: 3x3 cm (1.2x1.2 inches)
• Business cards: 1.5x1.5 cm minimum
• Posters/signage: Scale proportionally

Digital Guidelines

• Minimum: 200x200 pixels
• Web display: 300x300 pixels
• High-DPI screens: 600x600+ pixels
• Vector format: SVG for scalability

Pro Tip: The viewing distance should be roughly 10 times the QR code width for optimal scanning.

🎨 Color Contrast Recommendations

✅ Good Practices

• Dark QR code on light background
• Black on white (highest contrast)
• Dark blue on white
• Dark green on light yellow
• Minimum 3:1 contrast ratio

❌ Avoid These

• Light colors on dark backgrounds
• Similar color tones (low contrast)
• Red and green combinations
• Neon or fluorescent colors
• Colors that invert when printed

Warning: Always test color combinations with actual scanning devices before finalizing.

🏷️ Logo Placement Tips

Size Guidelines

• Maximum 20% of QR code area
• Center placement works best
• Square or circular logos preferred
• Maintain logo's aspect ratio

Error Correction

• Use High (30%) error correction
• Medium (15%) for small logos
• Test scannability after adding logo
• Consider logo background color

Remember: QR codes with logos may require closer scanning distance.

🛡️ Error Correction Level Guide

Level	Recovery	Best For	Data Capacity
Low (L)	~7%	Perfect conditions, digital display	Highest
Medium (M)	~15%	General use, clean printing	High
Quartile (Q)	~25%	Industrial use, potential damage	Medium
High (H)	~30%	Logos, outdoor use, wear expected	Lower

🔍 Testing Your QR Codes

Testing Checklist

• Test on multiple devices (iOS, Android)
• Try different scanning apps
• Test various lighting conditions
• Check different viewing angles
• Verify from typical scanning distance

Common Issues

• Too small for scanning distance
• Insufficient color contrast
• Damaged or dirty surface
• Poor lighting conditions
• Curved or distorted surface

Success Tip: If your QR code scans easily in poor conditions, it will work great everywhere!

💡 Pro Tips for Maximum Effectiveness

Placement Strategy

• Eye-level placement when possible
• Avoid curved or reflective surfaces
• Ensure adequate lighting
• Provide clear scanning instructions

Content Optimization

• Keep URLs short and simple
• Use URL shorteners for long links
• Test destination works on mobile
• Consider mobile-optimized landing pages

Print Quality

• Use vector formats (SVG, EPS) for print
• 300+ DPI for professional printing
• Test print quality before mass production
• Consider paper type and texture

User Experience

• Add call-to-action text
• Provide alternative access method
• Consider user privacy and security
• Monitor and track usage analytics

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