QR codes: do’s and don’ts

Use a short, stable destination

QR codes store text. Long URLs create dense codes that are harder to scan, especially when printed small. Prefer a short URL that redirects to your final page, and avoid destinations that change frequently.

Give it quiet space

QR scanners expect a margin around the code (often called the “quiet zone”). If you place the code too close to other elements, scanners may fail. Leave a clean border and avoid putting the code on busy backgrounds.

Pick the right size

For print, a common rule of thumb is at least 2 cm (about 0.8") for simple URLs, larger for dense content. For posters, go bigger — scanning distance increases quickly, and small codes become unreadable from a few feet away.

Test like a real user

• Test with at least two different phone models.
• Test in low light and under glare.
• Print a sample at the final size before mass printing.

Tool: QR Code Generator