QR Code Best Practices for Print & Marketing
Design and deployment tips to make sure your QR codes always scan reliably — for business cards, posters, packaging, and digital use.
1. Make It Big Enough
A QR code needs to be at least 2 cm × 2 cm (about 0.8 inches) at its intended scanning distance. For codes on large signage, plan for 1 cm of code size per 1 meter of viewing distance.
2. Use High Contrast
Dark dots on a light background scan best. Avoid low-contrast combinations like light grey on white, or busy patterned backgrounds behind the code.
3. Always Test Before Printing
Scan your QR code with multiple phones (iOS and Android) before printing at scale. Test in different lighting conditions. If it doesn't scan reliably on screen, it won't scan reliably on print.
4. Add a Call to Action
People are more likely to scan a QR code when they know what it does. Always place text near it: "Scan to see the menu", "Scan to connect on Wi-Fi", or "Scan to save 15%".
5. Use a Quiet Zone
QR codes require a white margin (the quiet zone) around them — at least 4 modules wide. Don't place text or images right up against the code edge. Our generator includes this automatically.
6. Use Vector Format for Print
PNG files can appear pixelated when scaled up for large print. For anything larger than business card size, use SVG or PDF — available on the Pro plan.
7. Use Dynamic Codes for Campaigns
If you're printing large batches or running a campaign, use dynamic QR codes. If the URL changes, just update the destination in your dashboard — no reprinting needed. Upgrade to Pro →
8. Track Performance
With dynamic QR codes, every scan is recorded: date, time, country, device type, and browser. Use this data to understand where scans are coming from and optimize your campaigns.