QR Code Generator Guide: Create Professional QR Codes for Any Purpose

Table of Contents

• What Is a QR Code?
• How QR Codes Work
• Types of QR Codes
• How to Create QR Codes
• QR Code Best Practices
• Real-World Use Cases
• Design and Branding Tips
• Testing and Troubleshooting

What Is a QR Code?

QR stands for "Quick Response." A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned by smartphone cameras to quickly access information—typically a website URL, but also text, contact information, Wi-Fi credentials, and more.

History of QR Codes

QR codes were invented in 1994 by Denso Wave, a Japanese automotive company, to track vehicle parts during manufacturing. The technology was designed to be scanned quickly (hence "Quick Response") and store more information than traditional 1D barcodes.

While QR codes existed for decades, they exploded in popularity during the 2020s due to:

• Contactless payment and menu systems accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic
• Built-in QR scanners in smartphone cameras (iOS and Android)
• Increased digital marketing adoption
• Rise of mobile-first internet usage

Why QR Codes Matter

QR codes offer unique advantages:

• Speed: Users access content instantly—no typing long URLs
• Convenience: Works with any smartphone camera
• Versatility: Can encode URLs, text, contact info, Wi-Fi credentials, and more
• Trackability: Analytics tools can track scans, locations, and user behavior
• Print & Digital: Works on physical materials (posters, packaging) and digital screens

How QR Codes Work

Technical Structure

A QR code consists of black squares arranged on a white grid. Key components include:

• Finder Patterns: Three large squares in the corners help scanners locate and orient the code
• Alignment Patterns: Smaller squares that help with accurate reading, especially for larger codes
• Timing Patterns: Alternating black and white modules that help determine the code's size
• Data Area: The encoded information (URL, text, etc.)
• Error Correction: Redundant data that allows the code to be read even if partially damaged (up to 30%)

How Scanning Works

1. User opens their smartphone camera
2. Camera detects the QR code using the finder patterns
3. Software decodes the pattern into readable data
4. The phone displays the decoded information (e.g., opens a URL in the browser)

Modern smartphones (iOS 11+ and Android 8+) have built-in QR scanners in the native camera app—no separate app needed!

Data Capacity

QR codes can store varying amounts of data depending on the complexity:

• Numeric: Up to 7,089 characters
• Alphanumeric: Up to 4,296 characters
• Binary: Up to 2,953 bytes
• Kanji/Kana: Up to 1,817 characters

Note: More data = larger, more complex QR code = harder to scan. Keep it simple for best scan rates.

Types of QR Codes

Static QR Codes

What it is: The data is permanently encoded in the QR code itself. Once created, it cannot be changed.

Pros:

• Works forever—no expiration or server dependency
• Free to create and use
• Fast scanning (direct decode)
• Privacy-friendly (no tracking)

Cons:

• Cannot update the destination URL after printing
• No analytics or scan tracking
• Complex data creates large, hard-to-scan codes

Best for: Permanent content (Wi-Fi credentials, contact cards, product serial numbers), personal use, privacy-conscious applications

Dynamic QR Codes

What it is: The QR code encodes a short redirect URL that points to a server-managed destination. The final destination can be changed anytime.

Pros:

• Update destination URL without reprinting code
• Detailed analytics (scans, locations, devices, timestamps)
• Smaller code size (short redirect URL)
• A/B testing and marketing campaigns

Cons:

• Requires subscription to QR management platform (usually paid)
• Depends on server uptime—code breaks if service shuts down
• Extra redirect step (slightly slower)
• Privacy concerns (scanning behavior tracked)

Best for: Marketing campaigns, business cards, event posters where destination may change, cases requiring analytics

Content Types You Can Encode

• URL/Website Link: Most common use case (e.g., https://goodboog.com)
• Plain Text: Any text message or information
• Email Address: Pre-filled email with recipient, subject, and body
• Phone Number: Click-to-call functionality
• SMS/Text Message: Pre-filled text message
• Contact Card (vCard): Save contact details instantly
• Wi-Fi Credentials: Auto-connect to Wi-Fi network
• Calendar Event: Add event to calendar
• Payment Info: Cryptocurrency addresses, payment apps
• App Store Links: Direct download links for mobile apps

How to Create QR Codes

Using goodboog's Free QR Generator

Our free QR code generator makes it easy to create professional QR codes in seconds:

1. Visit the tool: Go to qr.goodboog.com
2. Choose content type: Select URL, text, email, phone, or other option
3. Enter your data: Type the URL, text, or information you want to encode
4. Customize (optional): Adjust size, error correction level, and format
5. Generate: Click "Generate QR Code"
6. Download: Save as PNG, SVG, or PDF for print or digital use

Step-by-Step Example: Creating a Website URL QR Code

Goal: Create a QR code for your website homepage.

1. Open qr.goodboog.com
2. Select "URL" as the content type
3. Enter your website: https://www.yourwebsite.com
4. Set error correction to "Medium" (balances size and reliability)
5. Choose output format: PNG for digital use, SVG for print (scalable)
6. Click "Generate QR Code"
7. Download and test by scanning with your phone

Choosing the Right Format

• PNG (Raster): Best for digital use (websites, emails, social media). Choose high resolution (300+ DPI) for print.
• SVG (Vector): Best for professional print materials (posters, banners, billboards). Infinitely scalable without quality loss.
• PDF: Convenient for sharing and printing standard sizes (business cards, flyers).

QR Code Best Practices

1. Size and Resolution

Minimum Size: At least 2 cm × 2 cm (0.8 in × 0.8 in) for reliable scanning at arm's length.

Scanning Distance Rule: QR code size should be at least 10% of the scanning distance.

• Scanned from 10 cm away → minimum 1 cm code
• Scanned from 1 meter away → minimum 10 cm code
• Scanned from 5 meters away (billboard) → minimum 50 cm code

Resolution: For print, use 300 DPI or higher. For large formats (billboards), vector SVG is essential.

2. Contrast and Colors

Best Practice: Keep it simple—black on white is most reliable.

• Foreground: Dark colors (black, dark blue, dark green)
• Background: Light colors (white, light gray, light yellow)
• Avoid: Light foreground on dark background, low contrast combinations (light gray on white, dark blue on black)

Tip: Most QR scanners rely on contrast detection. If contrast is too low, scanning fails.

3. Error Correction Level

QR codes have built-in error correction that allows them to be read even if partially damaged. Choose based on use case:

Recommendation: Use Medium (M) for most applications. Use High (H) if adding a logo or expecting wear and tear.

4. Testing Before Printing

Always test QR codes before mass printing or distribution:

• Test on multiple devices (iOS, Android, different models)
• Test in different lighting conditions (bright sunlight, dim indoor)
• Test at the intended scanning distance
• Print a sample and scan the physical version (screen vs. print can differ)
• Verify the destination URL is correct and mobile-optimized

5. URL Best Practices

• Use HTTPS: Secure URLs build trust and avoid browser warnings
• Shorten long URLs: Use a URL shortener (bit.ly, tinyurl.com) or custom domain to reduce complexity
• Mobile-optimize landing page: Ensure the destination works perfectly on smartphones
• Avoid special characters: Some characters may not encode properly—test thoroughly

6. Don't Overload with Data

More data = larger, denser QR code = harder to scan. Keep it minimal:

• ✅ Good: https://bit.ly/my-event (25 characters)
• ⚠️ Acceptable: https://www.mywebsite.com/products/category (48 characters)
• ❌ Bad: https://www.myverylongdomainname.com/very/long/path/with/many/parameters?utm_source=qr&utm_campaign=2026 (120+ characters)

Real-World Use Cases

1. Business Cards

Add a QR code to your business card linking to:

• Your LinkedIn profile or professional website
• A vCard (contact information) for instant save-to-contacts
• Your company's portfolio or about page

Tip: Use a dynamic QR code so you can update the destination if you change jobs or websites.

2. Restaurant Menus

QR codes on tables allow customers to view digital menus:

• Reduce printing costs and enable instant menu updates
• Display allergen info, photos, and nutritional details
• Integrate with online ordering systems

Tip: Make the menu mobile-friendly and fast-loading. Consider PDF for static menus or a web app for interactive ordering.

3. Event Tickets

E-tickets with QR codes enable:

• Fast check-in (scan code at entrance)
• Fraud prevention (unique codes per ticket)
• Real-time attendance tracking

Tip: Include the attendee's name or order number as text below the QR code for manual verification backup.

4. Marketing Materials

Add QR codes to posters, flyers, billboards, or product packaging:

• Drive traffic to landing pages or promotional offers
• Enable instant app downloads (App Store or Google Play)
• Collect email signups or contest entries

Tip: Include a call-to-action (e.g., "Scan for 20% off!") to boost scan rates. Track analytics to measure ROI.

5. Product Packaging

Link to product information, instructions, or support:

• User manuals and assembly instructions
• Video tutorials or troubleshooting guides
• Warranty registration or customer support
• Product authenticity verification

6. Wi-Fi Sharing

Create a QR code with Wi-Fi credentials so guests can connect instantly without typing passwords:

• Perfect for cafes, offices, events, and home networks
• Supports WPA/WPA2 and open networks
• Print on a small card or display on a tablet

7. Real Estate

Place QR codes on "For Sale" signs or property listings:

• Link to virtual tours, floor plans, or property details
• Enable instant contact with the agent
• Schedule showings or request information

8. Museums and Exhibitions

Enhance visitor experiences with QR codes next to exhibits:

• Provide detailed information, audio guides, or videos
• Offer multi-language content
• Interactive quizzes or AR experiences

Design and Branding Tips

Adding Your Logo

You can add a small logo or icon to the center of your QR code, but follow these rules:

• Size limit: Logo should cover no more than 20-25% of the code area
• Error correction: Use High (H) level to compensate for the covered area
• Placement: Center of the code (avoid finder patterns in corners)
• Testing: Always test thoroughly—logos can interfere with scanning

Custom Colors

While black-on-white is most reliable, you can use brand colors if you maintain high contrast:

• Dark foreground (70%+ darkness) on light background (below 30% darkness)
• Avoid gradients or patterns—solid colors only
• Test extensively on different devices and lighting

Call-to-Action (CTA)

Always include text near the QR code telling users what to expect:

• ✅ "Scan for menu" (clear purpose)
• ✅ "Scan to enter contest" (incentive)
• ✅ "Scan for exclusive discount" (value proposition)
• ❌ Just a QR code with no explanation (low scan rate)

Placement Considerations

• Height: Position at eye level or slightly below for comfortable scanning
• Surface: Place on flat, non-reflective surfaces (avoid glossy materials, curves, or glass that causes glare)
• Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting—codes in shadows are hard to scan
• Accessibility: Don't place codes in hard-to-reach places (high ceilings, behind obstacles)

Testing and Troubleshooting

Common Scanning Issues

1. Code Won't Scan

Possible Causes:

• Code is too small or too complex
• Low contrast (colors too similar)
• Damaged or dirty surface
• Poor lighting or glare
• Camera focus issues

Solutions:

• Increase code size
• Use higher contrast (black on white)
• Clean the surface or reprint
• Improve lighting
• Hold phone steady and closer/farther to find focus

2. Wrong Destination

Possible Causes:

• Typo in the URL or data
• Dynamic QR code redirect was changed
• URL shortener expired or changed

Solutions:

• Double-check URL before generating code
• Use static QR codes for permanent destinations
• Use reliable, paid URL shorteners for important campaigns

3. Slow Scanning

Possible Causes:

• Too much data encoded (very complex code)
• Damaged code requiring error correction
• Curved or reflective surface

Solutions:

• Shorten the URL or reduce data
• Reprint on fresh, flat surface
• Increase error correction level

Pre-Launch Testing Checklist

Before deploying QR codes at scale, complete this checklist:

• ☐ Scanned successfully on iPhone (iOS 11+)
• ☐ Scanned successfully on Android (version 8+)
• ☐ Destination URL loads quickly on mobile (under 3 seconds)
• ☐ Landing page is mobile-optimized and readable
• ☐ Code printed at final size and material scans correctly
• ☐ Tested in both bright and low lighting
• ☐ Tested at intended scanning distance
• ☐ Call-to-action text is clear and visible
• ☐ Analytics tracking is set up (if using dynamic codes)