QR code guide: size, contrast and printing
A QR code stores your content as a pattern of dark and light squares (modules). The more you put in, the more modules the code needs — and the larger you should print it. Short links make the cleanest, most reliable codes.
Static vs dynamic QR codes
A static code contains your link or data directly and works forever. A dynamic code contains a short redirect link run by a QR company; it can be edited and tracked, but it breaks if that company or your subscription disappears. Every code made here is static. If you need statistics, add UTM parameters to your link and measure visits in your analytics.
How big should a QR code be?
A good rule is scanning distance ÷ 10: a code read from 50 cm (20 in) away should be at least 5 cm (2 in) wide. Never print below 2 × 2 cm (0.8 in), and keep a clear quiet zone of four modules around it.
Recommended minimum print sizes
| Scanning distance | Minimum code width | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 25 cm · 10 in | 2.5 cm · 1 in | Business card, packaging |
| 50 cm · 20 in | 5 cm · 2 in | Flyer, menu, table tent |
| 1 m · 3 ft | 10 cm · 4 in | Poster, shop window |
| 3 m · 10 ft | 30 cm · 12 in | Banner, trade-show wall |
| 10 m · 33 ft | 1 m · 3.3 ft | Billboard |
Design rules that keep codes scannable
- Dark on light. Use a dark foreground on a light background with strong contrast (at least 4:1). Light-on-dark codes are not supported by all scanners.
- Logos need error correction. Keep the logo below about 25% of the width and use level Q or H — the generator raises it for you.
- Keep the three eyes clear. Scanners find the code by its corner squares; don’t cover them.
- Test before printing. Scan with two different phones, at the real print size and in the real light.
Which file format should I use?
- PNG — websites, documents, social media. Choose 1024 px or larger for print.
- SVG — scalable vector for web and design apps (Figma, Illustrator, Inkscape, Canva).
- PDF — vector file for print shops, exact physical size.
- EPS — vector for professional print workflows and older layout software.
SEPA payment codes (EPC QR / GiroCode)
The European Payments Council standard lets customers pay an invoice by scanning it with their banking app: the beneficiary, IBAN, amount and reference are filled in automatically. It works with most banks in Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, Finland and many other euro-area countries.
Always test a printed QR code with several phones before a large print run. ToolCMB is not responsible for print errors, wrong content or third-party services linked from your codes.