How to make a QR code
- Choose what the code should do: open a website, show some text, join a Wi-Fi network, start an email, call a phone number or open a WhatsApp chat.
- Fill in the details. The preview updates as you type.
- Pick colours if you like. Keep the code dark on a light background for reliable scanning.
- Download a PNG for websites, documents and social media, or an SVG for print — SVG stays perfectly sharp at any size.
- Test it with your phone camera before you print or share it.
Static QR codes never expire
The codes made here are static: the information (your link, Wi-Fi details or text) is stored directly inside the pattern. That means they work forever, need no account, and do not depend on our website — even if the site disappeared, your printed codes would keep working.
Many “free” QR generators make dynamic codes instead. These point to the company’s own short link, which then redirects to your content. They let you change the destination later and count scans, but if the subscription ends or the service shuts down, every printed code stops working. For menus, business cards, posters and packaging, a static code is usually the safer choice.
QR code types explained
| Type | What happens when scanned | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| URL | Opens the web page | Websites, menus, reviews, social profiles, payment pages |
| Wi-Fi | Offers to join the network without typing the password | Homes, cafés, offices, guest rooms |
| Text | Shows the text on screen | Short notes, serial numbers, instructions |
| Opens a new email with address, subject and message filled in | Feedback and support requests | |
| Phone | Offers to call the number | Shop windows, flyers, vehicles |
| Opens a chat with your number | Small businesses, order enquiries, Facebook page posters |
What is error correction?
QR codes contain extra data so they can still be read if part of the code is dirty, damaged or covered. Higher error correction makes the code more robust but adds more squares, making it denser. Medium suits most uses. Choose High if the code will be printed outdoors, on curved surfaces, or if you plan to place a small logo in the middle.
Tips for codes that always scan
- Size: print the code at least 2 × 2 cm (0.8 in) for close scanning. As a rule, the scanning distance can be about ten times the code’s width.
- Contrast: use a dark code on a light background. Inverted (light on dark) codes do not work with some scanner apps.
- Quiet zone: leave a clear margin around the code — the downloaded files include one.
- Short content: shorter links make simpler codes that scan faster. Remove tracking parameters you don’t need.
- Add a call to action such as “Scan to see the menu”, so people know what they will get.
Frequently asked questions
Do these QR codes expire?
No. They are static codes with your information stored directly in the pattern, so they work forever and do not rely on our website.
Can I change the link after printing?
Not with a static code — the link is part of the pattern. If you may need to change it, point the code to a page you control (such as your own website) and update that page instead.
Is it free for commercial use?
Yes. You can use the codes on products, packaging, menus, posters and adverts without paying or crediting us.
Which format should I download?
PNG is ready to use on websites, documents and social media. SVG is a vector format that stays sharp at any size, making it best for professional printing.
Can you see my Wi-Fi password?
No. The code is created in your browser, and the information you enter is never sent to us.
Why won’t my QR code scan?
Check that there is enough contrast, that the code is not too small for the distance, and that it has a clear margin around it. Very long text makes a dense code that is harder to scan.