What Is a QR Code Generator?
A QR code generator is a tool that converts text, URLs, WiFi credentials, or any other data into a Quick Response (QR) code — a two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned by smartphones and cameras. QR codes were invented in 1994 by Denso Wave for tracking automotive parts and have since become the universal bridge between physical and digital content, used in marketing, payments, authentication, and information sharing.
DNS Robot's free QR code generator lets you create QR codes with full customization: choose from four error correction levels (L/M/Q/H), adjust the size from 150px to 500px, and pick custom foreground and background colors to match your brand. The generated QR code previews in real time and can be downloaded as a PNG image with one click. Unlike many online generators, our tool runs entirely in your browser — your data is never sent to any server, ensuring complete privacy.
How to Generate a QR Code Online
Creating a QR code takes just three steps. Our QR code maker generates codes instantly with a live preview — no account or payment required.
QR Code Error Correction Levels Explained
QR codes use Reed-Solomon error correction to remain scannable even when partially damaged or obscured. Choose the right level based on how your QR code will be used.
Low
7%
Smallest QR code. Best for digital screens where damage is unlikely.
Medium
15%
Recommended default. Good balance of size and durability for most uses.
Quartile
25%
Higher resilience. Ideal for printed materials that may get worn or folded.
High
30%
Maximum resilience. Use when adding logos or for harsh environments.
Tip: Higher error correction means more data modules in the QR code, producing a denser pattern. If you're encoding a long URL, Level L or M keeps the code simpler and easier to scan.
Best Practices for QR Code Design
Follow these tips to ensure your QR codes scan reliably across all devices and conditions.
High Contrast Colors
Keep the foreground dark and background light. Minimum 4:1 contrast ratio ensures reliable scanning.
Adequate Quiet Zone
Leave white space around the QR code (at least 4 modules wide). Avoid placing text or graphics too close to the edges.
Right Error Correction
Use Level M for standard use. Increase to Q or H if the code will be printed on rough surfaces or have a logo overlay.
Use Full URLs
Always include https:// in URLs. Use URL shorteners for long links to keep the QR code pattern simpler.
Test Before Printing
Always scan your QR code with multiple devices before mass printing. Test at the expected scanning distance.
Keep Data Minimal
Less data means a simpler, easier-to-scan QR code. Encode only what's necessary — use landing pages for complex content.
QR Code Use Cases: Where to Use QR Codes
QR codes have become essential across industries. Here are the most popular use cases for generated QR codes.
Link to websites, landing pages, app store listings, and social media profiles.
Share WiFi credentials for guest networks in offices, cafes, hotels, and events.
Encode vCard data with name, phone, email, and company for instant contact saving.
Link to product manuals, ingredient lists, reviews, or warranty registration pages.
Enable contactless payments via PayPal, Venmo, cryptocurrency wallets, and bank apps.
Create scannable tickets for events, boarding passes, conference check-ins, and venue entry.
QR Code Size Guide: Choosing the Right Dimensions
The right QR code size depends on where it will be displayed and how far away the scanner will be. Use this guide to choose the best dimensions.
Inline email signatures, chat messages, small digital widgets. Scan distance: < 6 inches.
Social media posts, profile images, small web widgets, presentation slides. Scan distance: 6–12 inches.
Business cards, flyers, brochures, product labels, restaurant menus. Scan distance: 1–2 feet.
Large posters, banners, store windows, trade show displays. Scan distance: 3–6 feet or more.
Rule of thumb: Scanning distance (inches) ÷ 10 = minimum QR code size (inches). A code scanned from 20 inches away should be at least 2 inches wide.
Related Tools
Scan and decode QR codes from images or webcam.
Convert text to binary and binary to text.
Generate strong random passwords for QR WiFi codes.
Encode and decode Morse code messages.
Verify SSL certificates of URLs encoded in QR codes.
Generate small text for compact QR content labels.