To create a QR code for YouTube: copy your channel URL, video link, or playlist URL and paste it into a QR code generator like Quality QR. For subscriptions, use the subscribe URL format (youtube.com/channel/[ID]?sub_confirmation=1). Dynamic QR codes let you change the linked video without reprinting.
What You Can Link To
### Your YouTube Channel
URL format: `https://www.youtube.com/@yourhandle` or `https://www.youtube.com/channel/[channel_id]`
Best for: General promotion, business cards, building subscribers.
### Subscribe with Confirmation
URL format: `https://www.youtube.com/channel/[channel_id]?sub_confirmation=1`
This opens the channel with a subscribe popup, making it easier for viewers to subscribe.
Best for: Maximizing subscriber conversion from print materials.
### A Specific Video
URL format: `https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=[video_id]`
Best for: Product demos, tutorials referenced in manuals, promotional videos.
### A Playlist
URL format: `https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=[playlist_id]`
Best for: Tutorial series, product guides, curated content collections.
### YouTube Shorts
URL format: `https://www.youtube.com/shorts/[video_id]`
Best for: Quick tips, viral content, younger audience targeting.
Use Cases for YouTube QR Codes
### Product Packaging
Include a QR code linking to setup videos, tutorials, or product demonstrations. Reduces support calls and improves customer experience.
Example: "Scan for assembly video" on furniture packaging.
### Print Advertisements
Magazine ads, flyers, and posters can't play video—but a QR code bridges that gap.
Example: "Watch the full story" linking to a brand video.
### Business Cards
YouTubers and video-focused businesses can link their channel or portfolio reel.
Example: Videographer's card with a QR code to their demo reel.
### In-Store Displays
Retail locations can show product videos, customer testimonials, or brand content.
Example: "See it in action" QR codes on product displays.
### Educational Materials
Textbooks, worksheets, and handouts can link to supplementary video content.
Example: "Watch the experiment" QR codes in science workbooks.
### Event Materials
Conference materials, booth displays, and promotional items can link to presentations or company videos.
Example: Trade show booth with QR code to product demo videos.
Pro Tips
### Use Dynamic QR Codes
With dynamic QR codes, you can change which video the code links to without reprinting. Great for:
- Featuring your latest video on ongoing materials
- A/B testing different videos
- Seasonal content swaps
### Track Your Performance
Quality QR analytics show you how many scans your code gets. Combine with YouTube analytics to track:
- Scan-to-view conversion
- Where your offline traffic comes from
- Which placements drive the most views
### Design for Recognition
Use YouTube's brand colors (red #FF0000, white, black) and add the YouTube logo to your QR code for instant recognition.
### Include a Clear CTA
Don't just place a QR code—tell people what they'll get:
- "Watch the tutorial"
- "See it in action"
- "Subscribe for weekly tips"
Timestamp Links
You can link to a specific timestamp in a video:
Format: `https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=[video_id]&t=120s` (starts at 2:00)
Great for long videos where you want to highlight a specific section.
Create your YouTube QR code free with Quality QR—track scans and update videos anytime.
