How to size your QR code properly?
The proper size for a QR code depends on where you intend to place it. Are you scanning it from a short distance or a much longer range?
Generally, according to the QR code sizing guide, the standard QR code size is at least 1.2 inches (3–4 cm), but the minimum size or the allowable smallest QR code size printed can be around 2 cm by 2 cm (0.8 x 0.8 inches).
Note that despite using the standard print size, the distance from where a person can scan the code will affect its scannability.
So, depending on where you’re posting the QR code, you still need to test scan the QR code on print and see if the size and distance work.
A larger QR code size is necessary if you’re placing it on moving vehicles or a billboard. The code must also be large and clear enough to be scanned by a smartphone camera or QR code reader.
Also, make sure it has the right lighting or is visible enough to scan easily.
What is the best QR code size for different printed materials?
As mentioned above, the size of your QR code will actually depend on the material you’re working on. Check out the sizes provided below for the best options:
QR code size for flyers and cards
You can opt for a small to medium QR size for short distances. It doesn’t have to be too big, so users won’t have to adjust the distance when scanning it.
So the best QR code size for flyers, posters, cards, and packaging suitable for short-distance scanning? You can use a QR code size of 6.3 to 30 in (16-75 cm) and 6.3 to 30 in (16-75 cm) for these materials.
QR code size for billboards and overhead posters
If you are to place a billboard or banner QR code, you have to print it big enough so users can still scan it even from a distance.
Scanners and QR code printers won’t detect the code if you print it too small on a huge surface, as this will require scanners to be very close to the QR code.
The best QR code size for a billboard is 19-61.3 in (48-157 cm), which is, of course, much bigger than the standard size.
Other surfaces that need large QR code prints are overhead posters, electronic billboards, shop windows, and vehicles.
Adjusting to the best QR code dimensions according to the image resolution
The minimum pixel size of a QR code is at least 38 x 38 pixels, but since 38 pixels only equates to 1 centimeter, it means that the minimum QR size of 2 cm is not met.
So for a better quality, doubling the pixel to 76 x 76 will guarantee an equated 2 cm x 2 cm size of the DIY QR code.
For digital QR codes, follow the size of at least 240 by 240 pixels (6.35 cm by 6.35 cm) with a minimum of 72 DPI (dots per inch) resolution is already of minimum quality.
Best practices when creating QR codes using Free QR Code Generator
Apply these best practices, and you’re on your way to launching a popping QR code campaign.
Preserve the quiet zone
Now that you know the best print size for each of your ads, it’s important to note that the quiet zone is also an important part of a QR code.
This space separates the pattern from the designs. Scanners only detect the pixels, and the quiet zone tells which area is scannable.
Proper QR code color contrast
Knowing the default size of each QR code is as important as color choices. You can customize QR code color in any way you like. However, you must ensure that it has the proper contrast.
A dark pattern and light background are always the standard.,Pastel and light colors may be cute to look at, but they can cause an error when scanning your code.
Remember not to use the same color for both patterns and the background, as scanners will not be able to detect the code.
Make sure you use reliable code scanners so there’s no room for error when test-scanning your ad campaigns.
Print the best QR code size in good quality materials
Apart from QR code dimensions, it goes without saying that proper printing is another big element in its scannability.
While generating your QR code, you can save it in SVG or PNG form.
If you want to print your code, download it in SVG format to maintain the best quality. However, when sharing your QR code digitally, downloading it in PNG format is also a good option.
Test your QR code
Needless to say, you always need to test every QR code before deploying them even though you think it already has the best QR code size. Do not leave a bad impression on your business over a problematic QR code.
This one is easy to avoid if you make a habit of test-scanning your codes before posting them in any format.
Add a call to action
Attract more scanners by giving them instructions on what to do with your QR code. Adding a compelling call to action is one of the best ways to do it, on top of your eye-catching graphic design.
Add an element of urgency such as “Scan Now” or “Scan for Limited-Time Offers.”
Dynamic QR code: The best QR code type to use for campaigns
Today, users widely use QR code signage to provide consumers with convenient and interactive campaigns.
You might also see QR codes used in points of sale. These are reliable and popular tools for facilitating payments worldwide, as they reduce the risk of human error that comes with manually typing the URL and other payment details.
But did you know that there are two types of QR codes, which you can get from a free QR code generator? Let’s get to know them better.
Static QR code
Between the static versus dynamic QR code comparison, the static QR code is best known as the free QR code. It contains fixed and permanent data that you can no longer edit.
If you want the data on your static QR code replaced, you must generate a new one.
These are not advisable for businesses that truly want to track and make the most of their ads.
But for those who only go for one-and-done campaigns with no data tracking needed, a static QR code may still be the best and most straightforward option for sharing that information.
Dynamic QR code
Being aware of the right QR code print size will be useless if you’ve chosen the wrong QR code type. Dynamic QR codes are advanced QR codes with more features.
Users can embed larger data without making the pattern look denser—a better option to avoid scanning errors for a QR code in shapes.
Through dynamic QR codes, you can easily edit the embedded data without generating a new one every time.
You can then monitor the QR code scan analytics using the tracking features, including the number of scans, time and date of scanning, and the device used to scan your code.
Because of these options, dynamic QR codes are more advisable for omnichannel marketing, advertising, and promotional campaigns.
Easy steps to make the right QR code print size
Always refer to our guide above before you open a QR code generator and follow these easy steps:
1. Go to the Free QR Code Generator homepage.
2. Choose your solution. There are lots of solutions offered by this generator, so just choose which option applies best to your needs.
3. Provide the needed URL or data. Make sure to check if you’ve added the correct details.
4. Generate your QR code.
5. Customize your QR code design according to your brand image. Change the color, add your logo, and write a call to action to make sure readers are compelled to scan the code.
6. Test your QR code. Checking whether your QR code works before deploying is important to avoid negative user feedback.
7. Download, print, and distribute your QR code!
The right size makes the right QR code
Don’t let the size of your QR codes prevent you from getting enough scans—always get the best QR code size.
Remember the tips above to determine how small can a QR code be and still work in specific campaigns and materials, as well as the elements that make for an effective QR code ad so you’ll reap the benefits of a carefully thought-out campaign.
Be one of the thousands of successful QR code campaigners. Visit Free QR Code Generator now and sign up to enjoy using dynamic QR code solutions fit for your business needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if the QR code is too small?
If the QR code is too small, then the scanning distance should be short for scanners to decode it. The best QR code dimension is always coupled with proper scanning distance.
But if you scan a small QR code from a long distance, you may not be able to scan it properly.
Reprint the QR code and put your customers first—make it super easy for them to scan and take action.
What is the smallest size for a QR code?
The minimum size for a QR code can be up to 2 cm by 2 cm in size. Anything smaller than that may cause scanning errors.
An effective ad campaign prioritizes customers. What do they need? Will they easily access the QR code you printed for them? Is your QR code campaign optimized?
When all these elements are met, you’ll surely see that QR codes are quite effective in converting people into happy customers.
