QR code generator and reader

Free QR code generator for small businesses

QR Code Tools creates free, static QR codes with no sign-up for WhatsApp, menus, business cards, Wi-Fi, events and links. You customize colors and logo, the tool checks that the code scans, and you download it as print-ready PNG or SVG.

  • Free, no sign-up
  • Never expires
  • Your data stays in your browser
Smartphone scanning a QR code next to a laptop with options to generate, read and share QR codes
Generate the code on your computer and test it with your phone camera.

Create your QR code

This is sample data. Replace it with your business details.

Design
Palettes
Module shape
Position markers
Center logo
Error correction

Print and download

Printed above the code. Leave empty to use the suggested text.

QR code reader: check where a code leads before you open it

Upload a photo or screenshot, paste it with Ctrl + V or use your camera. You’ll see the destination domain, Wi-Fi network or contact, with alerts if the link is shortened or not secure.

Drag the code image here

JPG, PNG or WebP. You can also paste a screenshot.

QR reader flow: scan the code, review the detected content, then open the link, save the contact or join the Wi-Fi
The reader shows the destination before opening it: scan, review, then open.
Business owner customizing the colors and corners of a QR code on her laptop for a restaurant table tent, an event sign and a business card
One design works for the table tent, the event sign and the business card.

How do you customize a QR code without breaking it?

A branded QR code gets scanned more, but every design change eats into its reading margin. These rules keep the code readable:

  • Minimum contrast of 4.5 to 1. Dark modules on a light background. Inverted colors fail in some readers.
  • Logo at 25% or less of the width, with error correction H.
  • Quiet zone of 4 modules around the code, with no text or borders on top.
  • Visible corners. The three position squares are the first thing the camera looks for.
  • Test before printing with two different phones and in the actual lighting.

How do you create a QR code for your business?

5 steps, about two minutes.

  1. Choose the QR code type

    Select link, WhatsApp, menu, contact card, Wi-Fi, event, location, text or email.

  2. Enter your details

    Fill in the fields. The preview updates instantly and flags anything missing or mistyped.

  3. Customize the design

    Adjust colors, module shape and corners, and add your logo. The indicator warns you if contrast is low.

  4. Check that it scans

    The tool reads the code you created and confirms it contains exactly your data. Test it with your phone camera too.

  5. Download and print

    Download as PNG or SVG, with or without a text frame, and print it at the recommended size for the scanning distance.

What type of QR code does my business need?

It depends on what you want customers to do when they scan. This table sums up each type and where it works best.

QR code types and their uses for businesses
TypeWhat it opens when scannedWhere to use it
LinkYour website, Google reviews, Instagram or a PDFFlyers, packaging, cards
WhatsAppA chat with you, with a pre-filled messageDelivery orders, quotes, appointments
MenuThe restaurant’s digital menuTables, bars, food trucks
Card (vCard)A contact card ready to saveBusiness cards, badges, booths
Wi-FiAccess to your network without typing the passwordCafés, hotels, clinics, offices
EventA reminder in the phone’s calendarOpenings, classes, weddings, trade fairs
LocationGoogle Maps with your addressPosters, invitations, ads
Three printed QR codes: a restaurant table tent for viewing the menu, an acrylic sign holder in a shop and an event badge
Printed QR code examples for a restaurant, a shop and an event.

Frequently asked questions

Do QR codes from QR Code Tools expire?

No. They are static QR codes: the information is stored in the code itself, so they work as long as the destination exists. They don’t depend on a subscription or an intermediate server.

Is it free, and do I need to sign up?

It’s free and requires no account. The code is generated in your browser and you can download it as PNG or SVG for commercial use.

What data do you store about me?

None. What you type, the logo you upload and the images you scan are processed on your own device and never sent to a server. Google ads shown on this site may use their own cookies, subject to your consent.

What size should I print a QR code?

Use the 10-to-1 rule: the code should be at least one tenth of the scanning distance. At 30 cm, 3 cm per side is enough; a poster seen from 2 m needs about 20 cm. If the code holds a lot of data, print it larger.

Can I put my logo in the center of the QR code?

Yes. When you add a logo, the tool raises error correction to level H, which tolerates up to 30% damage, and checks that the code still scans. Keep the logo at 25% of the width or less.

Which format should I download, PNG or SVG?

PNG for social media, WhatsApp and documents. SVG for print shops, banners and vinyl, because it’s vector and stays sharp at any size.