QR codes appear on product packaging, restaurant menus, ads, business cards and tickets. They let people open a web page or get other information in seconds with a smartphone camera.
Creating a QR code usually takes a few minutes and needs no special software or programming skills. Here are the main steps and the mistakes to avoid.
What is a QR code?
A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that stores text or other data. A smartphone or scanner reads it and, depending on the content, can open a website, show text or suggest another action.
QR codes are used for:
- opening a website or a product page;
- opening a digital menu;
- sharing contact details;
- connecting to Wi-Fi;
- linking to documents and instructions;
- advertising and information materials.
What actually happens depends on the data encoded and on what the user’s device supports.
How to create a QR code online
Step 1. Prepare the information
First decide what should open after scanning. Most often it is the full address of a web page, for example https://kiwi.org.ua/.
If the code is meant for printed advertising, make sure the link leads to the right page and works without extra steps.
Step 2. Open a QR code generator
Use the KiwiLab QR Code Generator.
Enter the data to encode. Check which types of information the tool supports and which file format you can save.
Step 3. Generate the code
Start generation and wait for the QR code to appear. If size or color options are available, choose them with readability in mind.
For a first try, a plain black-and-white code is best: it is usually easier to check and to print.
Step 4. Download the image
Save the finished QR code to your device. If you plan to use it in print, check the resolution and the export format.
Step 5. Always test the code
Before publishing, scan the QR code with a phone camera. Make sure it opens the right page or shows the right data.
If the code will be printed, also test a trial print at the size people will actually see.
QR codes for different tasks
QR code for a website
Encode the full page address including https://. Test the link on a smartphone and make sure the destination page is mobile-friendly.
QR code for a business card
Depending on the generator, you can encode contact details or a link to a digital business card. Do not add personal data that is not needed for the task.
QR code for Wi-Fi
Some generators support a special format for Wi-Fi settings. Before using it, check that the code works on the devices your visitors will use.
Remember: a QR code with Wi-Fi details can reveal the password to anyone who gets hold of its image.
QR code for advertising
If the code is placed on a poster, package or flyer, add a short hint next to it, such as “Scan to view the catalog”. People then understand why they should scan it.
How to make a QR code easy to scan
Keep the contrast high. A dark code on a light background is usually easier to read than a low-contrast color combination.
Do not make it too small. The right size depends on the scanning distance, the complexity of the data and the print quality.
Leave free space around it. Do not put text, frames or other elements right up against the code.
Do not distort the proportions. Stretching, cropping or heavy decoration can stop it from scanning.
Test after printing. A code that works on screen does not always scan as well on paper or another surface.
Static vs. dynamic QR codes: what is the difference?
A static QR code contains the data directly. If it holds a web address, changing the destination usually means creating a new code.
Dynamic QR codes often use an intermediate address or a special service that lets you change the destination link and view statistics. Such features may require an account or payment.
Before using a dynamic service, check its terms, how long it stays available and what happens to your links if the subscription ends.
Is it safe to scan QR codes?
A QR code can lead to a normal website, but it can also hide a link to a scam page. Before entering a password, banking details or other confidential information, check the site address.
Do not scan suspicious codes from unknown sources and do not install apps just because an opened page demands it.
Check your QR code before printing
Tick what you have already verified: the summary shows whether the code is ready to print.
Conclusion
A QR code is a simple way to share links and information without typing. To make it work reliably, use the right data, keep enough contrast and test the result on a real device.
You can create your own code with the KiwiLab QR Code Generator and read one from a photo with the QR Code Reader.