A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information like URLs, text, or contact details. When scanned with a smartphone camera, it instantly opens the encoded content. Creating one takes under a minute with the right tool.
What Is a QR Code?
QR codes were invented by Denso Wave in 1994 for tracking automotive parts. Today they're everywhere—restaurant menus, product packaging, business cards, event tickets, and marketing campaigns. Unlike traditional barcodes that store data horizontally, QR codes use a grid pattern to store data both horizontally and vertically, allowing them to hold much more information.
Key advantages over traditional barcodes:
- Store up to 4,296 characters (vs. ~20 for barcodes)
- Scannable from any angle
- Built-in error correction (works even when partially damaged)
- No special scanner needed—any smartphone camera works
Types of QR Codes You Can Create
Different QR code types serve different purposes. Here are the most common ones:
- URL QR code — Links to any website or landing page. The most popular type.
- vCard QR code — Encodes contact information (name, phone, email, address). Scanning saves the contact directly.
- WiFi QR code — Connects to a WiFi network automatically. Perfect for offices, cafés, and guest networks.
- Email QR code — Opens a pre-filled email with recipient, subject, and body.
- SMS QR code — Opens a pre-filled text message.
- Plain text QR code — Displays a text message when scanned.
- PDF QR code — Links to a hosted PDF document for easy sharing.
See all available QR code types with detailed explanations.
How to Create a QR Code: Step by Step
Step 1: Choose Your QR Code Type
Go to Quality QR's generator and select the type that matches your content. For most use cases, a URL QR code is the right choice.
Step 2: Enter Your Content
Paste your URL, type your text, or fill in the relevant fields (like WiFi network name and password). Double-check for typos—especially with static codes that can't be edited later.
Step 3: Choose Static or Dynamic
This is the most important decision. Static QR codes permanently encode your content and can't be changed. [Dynamic QR codes](/blog/dynamic-vs-static-qr-codes) use a short redirect URL, allowing you to edit the destination and track scans. Choose dynamic if you might need to update the content or want analytics.
Step 4: Customize the Design
- Make your QR code match your brand. You can customize:
- Foreground and background colors
- Corner and body dot patterns
- Add a logo or image in the center
- Add a frame with call-to-action text
Follow QR code design best practices to ensure your code stays scannable.
Step 5: Download and Test
Download in PNG (for digital use) or SVG (for print). Always test before publishing: scan with at least two different phones, try from different distances, and check under the lighting conditions where it'll be displayed.
Static vs. Dynamic QR Codes
| Feature | Static | Dynamic |
|---|---|---|
| Edit after creation | No | Yes |
| Scan tracking | No | Yes |
| Size | Larger (full URL encoded) | Smaller (short URL) |
| Cost | Usually free | Usually paid |
| Best for | Simple one-time use | Business and marketing |
For anything business-related, dynamic codes are almost always worth the investment. The ability to fix mistakes, update campaigns, and track performance saves time and money.
Customizing Your QR Code Design
- A well-designed QR code gets more scans. Key tips:
- Maintain high contrast between foreground and background
- Keep a quiet zone (white border) around the code
- Don't cover more than 30% of the code area with a logo
- Test after every design change
- Use colors that match your brand, but avoid light-on-light combinations
How to Test Your QR Code
Testing is non-negotiable. Before printing or publishing: 1. Scan with iPhone (built-in camera) 2. Scan with Android (built-in camera or Google Lens) 3. Test at the intended display size 4. Test at the expected scanning distance 5. If printed, test the actual print—screens and paper scan differently
Tracking QR Code Performance
- With dynamic QR codes, you get detailed analytics:
- Total scans and unique scans
- Location data (city and country)
- Device type (iOS vs. Android)
- Time and date of each scan
- Scan trends over time
Use these insights to measure campaign effectiveness and optimize placement. Learn more in our QR code analytics guide.
Create your first QR code free with Quality QR—no account required for static codes, free tier available for dynamic codes with analytics.
