QR Code Size & Printing Guide

The 10:1 Rule of Thumb

A simple rule: divide the expected scanning distance by 10 to get the minimum QR code size. If people will scan from 30 cm (1 foot) away — like a business card — the QR code should be at least 3 cm. If they'll scan from 3 meters away — like a poster — make it at least 30 cm.

Minimum Size Reference Table

PNG vs. SVG: Which Format to Use

PNG (Raster)

• Our PNGs are 1024×1024 pixels — high enough resolution for most print uses up to about 8 cm at 300 DPI
• Perfect for screens: websites, social media, presentations, emails
• For very large prints (posters, banners), use SVG instead

SVG (Vector)

• Scales to any size with zero quality loss — from a stamp to a billboard
• The best choice for professional print: business cards, flyers, packaging, signage
• Smaller file size than PNG for QR codes
• Opens in any design tool (Illustrator, Figma, Canva, Inkscape)

Rule: If it's going on a screen, use PNG. If it's going to print, use SVG.

Print Resolution

For crisp print, aim for at least 300 DPI (dots per inch). Our 1024px PNG at 300 DPI prints clearly at about 8.7 cm (3.4 inches). For anything larger, use the SVG.

Material Considerations

• Matte paper — Best for QR codes. No glare, consistent contrast, reliable scanning.
• Glossy paper — Works fine but can cause glare under bright lights, making scanning harder.
• Textured or dark surfaces — Avoid printing QR codes on textured, colored, or dark backgrounds. The code needs high contrast (dark on light) to scan reliably.
• Curved surfaces — Bottles, cups, and other curved items work as long as the QR code isn't stretched or distorted. Keep it on the flattest area.
• Outdoor / weatherproof — Use laminated prints or UV-resistant materials. Faded codes won't scan.

Color and Contrast

The golden rule: dark modules on a light background. Black on white is the safest choice. If you want to use colors:

• The dark modules can be any dark color (dark blue, dark green, black)
• The background must stay light (white, very light gray)
• Never invert (white on black) — most scanners struggle with inverted codes
• Maintain at least 40% contrast between the two colors

The Quiet Zone

Every QR code needs a white border (called the "quiet zone") around it — at least 4 modules wide. Our generator adds this automatically. If you're cropping or embedding the QR code in a design, make sure you preserve this border. Without it, scanners may not detect the code.