QR code guide

A QR code is a grid of information. Your camera finds its corners, reads the pattern, and reconstructs the content—even when some data is damaged.

Space is part of the code.

Keep the clear white border around your QR. QR puli reserves at least four modules of quiet space, so a scanner can separate it from its surroundings.

Dark on light wins.

Use strong contrast between your pattern and background. We require a conservative 4.5:1 contrast ratio for export; this is our design guardrail, not a QR standard.

Test the real thing.

We decode the rendered design before download. Paper, glare, distance, and camera quality still matter. Start around 30 mm wide and test at the actual size and distance.

A small logo. A lasting impression.

We use high error correction and a restrained logo area. Error correction protects data, but it is not permission to obscure 30% of the image. Every edited design gets checked again.

Use the editor your way.

Use the skip link to reach the editor, Tab to move through controls, and arrow keys within grouped choices. Press Escape to close a dialog. Every color also has a text field for entering a hex value. Selected choices are highlighted and have an accessible selected state. The preview updates automatically, and animations respect your device’s reduced-motion setting.

How a QR code works

DENSO WAVE, then a division of DENSO, introduced the QR code in 1994. Masahiro Hara’s team designed it for fast reading, and car factories used it to track parts. QR stands for “Quick Response.”

Find the corners
Your phone’s camera looks for the three large corner markers. They help the scanner locate the code and work out its orientation.
Read the pattern
The scanner reads a grid of light and dark squares, called modules, and decodes the stored data. Extra error-correction data can recover some missing information.
Choose the next step
Depending on its apps, your phone may offer to open a link, save a contact, or join Wi-Fi. You choose what happens next.

DENSO WAVE QR Code guidance (opens in a new tab)

Create, customize and share

Add your link, choose your colors, and make it yours with a logo. Download PNG, SVG or PDF. No account needed.

How do I create a QR code with my logo?

Enter your link, choose a color theme, then add your logo, social icon or photo in the editor. The preview updates as you work. Download a PNG for sharing, an SVG for resizing, or a PDF for printing. Scan the final version on your phone before using it.

Do these QR codes expire?

This is a free static QR code generator. Your link or details are stored in the code itself. There is no built-in expiry or scan limit. Keep linked pages and files available. Create a new QR code if you change its link or details.

How do I make a Wi-Fi QR code?

Choose Wi-Fi and enter the network name, password and security type. Supported phone cameras can use the code to join that network. Generation happens in your browser. Anyone with the code can read the encoded credentials, so use a guest network for visitors.

Will colorful QR codes scan?

Color can work when the dots remain clearly distinct from the background. Our presets use white backgrounds, custom colors have contrast protection, and downloads are checked with a QR decoder. Keep the clear space around the code and test the actual print at the intended size and distance.

Can I generate QR codes in bulk?

Yes. Open Bulk, paste a CSV with up to 50 rows, and use your current design for the batch. Each code is checked before it is included in the ZIP download. Review the sample CSV in Bulk for the expected columns.