- Use the right QR type (URL, Wi‑Fi, WhatsApp, vCard, Email, SMS) so phones interpret it correctly.
- Keep contrast high and preserve the quiet zone (margin) for fast scanning.
- If you add a logo, increase error correction (Q or H) and test on multiple devices.
- Download PNG for everyday sharing and SVG for crisp printing and design work.
Why a good QR generator matters
A QR code is a bridge between a physical surface and a digital action. When someone scans, they expect instant results—no retries, no confusion, and no suspicious-looking destination.
A “good” QR generator does more than draw squares. It helps you choose the correct payload format (for example, a Wi‑Fi QR is not the same as plain text), it preserves a scannable quiet zone, and it lets you export in formats that match your use case.
qrfreetool is designed as a lightweight, browser-based generator. You can create a QR for common use cases, style it with colors or a logo, and download it without account sign-ups.
What you can generate with qrfreetool
On the Generator page, you can create QR codes for: Text, URL, Phone, WhatsApp click‑to‑chat, Email, SMS, Wi‑Fi credentials, and vCard business cards.
Each type uses an industry-standard format so scanners can trigger the right action—opening a website, drafting an email, or offering to join Wi‑Fi.
Step-by-step: generate a QR code in your browser
Open Generate QR and pick the QR type that matches your goal. If you’re sending people to a webpage, choose URL. If you’re sharing guest internet, choose Wi‑Fi. If you want leads from messaging, choose WhatsApp.
Fill the dynamic fields. For URLs, include https:// (or the tool will add it for you). For WhatsApp, use international format so it works globally. For vCards, keep the most important fields first: name, phone, email, and website.
Watch the live preview update instantly. If you see the payload preview looking wrong (for example, a missing domain or an incorrect Wi‑Fi security type), fix it before you download.
Choose size and margin intentionally
Size is not just “bigger looks nicer.” A QR that’s too small becomes hard to scan, especially after printing. Start with a larger size for posters and public signs, and consider your expected scanning distance.
Margin (quiet zone) is the white space around the QR. Don’t remove it. Scanners use it to find the edges quickly. If you’re placing the QR on a busy background, increase the margin and keep the area clean.
Pick the right error correction level
Error correction increases scanning resilience when the code is slightly damaged, blurred, or partially covered. For most QR codes without a logo, M is a balanced default.
If you add a logo or plan to print on rough surfaces, use Q or H. Higher levels are more forgiving, but they can make the pattern denser—so you may need a slightly larger QR size.
Branding your QR: colors, gradients, and logos
A branded QR code can look premium, but design choices should never sacrifice scannability. The most important rule is contrast: a dark foreground on a light background scans faster than the reverse.
If you want a gradient, use it subtly and keep at least one end of the gradient very dark. Avoid light gradients on light backgrounds, because they reduce edge detection.
Logos can be added in the center. Keep them small enough that the corner finder patterns and the dot field remain readable. As a starting point, keep logo size around 20–25% and then test.
PNG vs SVG: which download should you use?
PNG is a raster image. It’s perfect for social posts, websites, chat apps, and documents where size is fixed. It’s also the safest option if you don’t want to worry about compatibility.
SVG is a vector format. It’s ideal for designers and printing because it scales to any size without losing sharpness. If you’re putting a QR on a banner, packaging, or signage, SVG keeps edges crisp.
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Encoding the wrong format: for example, putting Wi‑Fi details as plain text. Use the correct QR type so phones can interpret it as “Join Wi‑Fi.”
Low contrast: brand colors that look stylish can reduce scan speed. Use a dark foreground and test in bright light.
Removing the quiet zone: a tight crop might look clean, but it often breaks scanning. Always keep a margin around the code.
Skipping tests: scan from at least two devices and, if printing, test from the real print at the real distance.
A fast testing checklist
- Scan in bright indoor light and in lower light.
- Scan from the expected distance (close-up vs poster distance).
- Try at least one iPhone and one Android device if your audience is mixed.
- If you used a logo or gradient, increase size slightly until scans are instant.
Privacy and safety notes
qrfreetool runs as a static website and the generator works in your browser. That keeps the workflow lightweight and helps you stay in control of your content.
If your QR links to a sensitive destination (payments, login, or personal data), consider adding visible context near the QR: your brand name, the domain, and a clear call-to-action. This reduces user hesitation and protects against QR tampering.
- Scan a QR code (camera or image upload)
- Generate a QR code (colors, logo, PNG/SVG)
- Back to Blog (search all QR guides)
- QR Code Design Best Practices (Colors, Logos, Testing)
- QR Code Error Correction Explained (L, M, Q, H)
Key takeaways
- Pick the correct QR type so scanners trigger the right action.
- Keep contrast high and preserve the quiet zone for fast detection.
- Use higher error correction when adding a logo or printing on challenging surfaces.
- Download PNG for general use and SVG for crisp scaling and printing.
- Always test your QR code in real conditions before publishing.
FAQ
Yes. qrfreetool lets you upload a logo, control its size, and download the QR in PNG or SVG. For best results, use higher error correction (Q or H) and test on multiple devices.
Use the URL type. It ensures the payload is a proper link and scanners open it directly. If your URL doesn’t start with http/https, add https:// to avoid misinterpretation.
More data creates a denser pattern. Denser QRs need a larger printed size to scan reliably. If possible, use a short link or reduce text length.
SVG is best for printing because it scales cleanly. If you must use PNG, export at a higher pixel size and avoid resizing it down too aggressively in design tools.
No. The generator runs in-browser on a static site. We only save your theme and cookie-consent preferences locally on your device.