How can I test a QR code?
There are two main ways to verify your QR code's functionality: using your phone's built-in camera app or a dedicated third-party QR code scanner app. Let's explore both methods:
Scan using built-in camera app
Modern smartphones, especially those running Android 8 (Oreo) and iOS 11 or later, have a built-in scanner QR code integrated into their camera apps. Here's how to access it:
- Open your phone's camera app.
- Point the camera towards the QR code. Ensure the code is centered within the viewfinder for optimal scanning.
- Wait for the magic! If your phone recognizes the QR code, a notification will pop up displaying the decoded information.
- This information could be a website link, a text message, or even a vCard (digital business card).
- Simply tap the notification to access the information encoded within the QR code.
Well, what if the built-in scanner doesn't work?
There are a couple of possibilities:
- It’s a disabled feature. Some camera apps might require you to enable the QR code scanning function first. Check your camera app's settings to see if there's a dedicated option for QR codes.
- Your phone is outdated. If your phone is a bit older and doesn't have a built-in scanner, fret not! Dedicated QR code reader apps offer a reliable alternative.
Using a QR code scanner app
While built-in camera apps are convenient for basic scanning, third-party QR code reader apps provide additional functionalities that can be helpful:
- Offers advanced features. Some apps offer scan history, batch scanning for multiple QR codes (useful for business cards), and even password protection for codes containing sensitive information.
- Provides customization options. Change the scanner interface or add a logo for a more branded experience (great for businesses using QR codes).
Why validate a QR code first?
You might think it’s a waste of time to go over this tedious process, considering that you trust your QR code software.
Here’s the thing: whether your chosen software is the most advanced, it pays to ensure your QR codes are working before displaying them to the public.
With the increasing Quishing reports, QR testing offers security to your target audience and improves your credibility as well.
Apart from that, here’s more:
To check functionality
When it comes to QR codes, functionality is paramount. When you test QR code, it allows you to confirm that the QR code performs its intended function flawlessly.
Take a sample QR code test to ensure that users are directed to the desired webpage, given access to exclusive content, and purchase or subscribe to a service.
Verifying accessibility
Accessibility is another critical aspect of QR code deployment. Test-scanning helps ensure that other users scan your QR code more easily.
Test QR code across multiple platforms to ensure it reaches a wider audience regardless of the device or operating system (OS) they use.
Guaranteeing accuracy
Accuracy is vital when it comes to QR codes. A single incorrect character or a misplaced dot can render the code useless.
This step minimizes the risk of users being directed to the wrong location or receiving incorrect data, thinking it’s a fake QR code leading to confusion and frustration. Take this as a step to proofread content.
How to create a QR code using a free QR code generator
Creating a QR code is a no-sweat at all. Even non-tech savvy people can freely make their own decisions without being intimidated. Here’s how:
- Go to the best free QR code generator online. It’s 100% free; no sign-ups needed. But if you want to try dynamic QR codes, you can sign up for a free trial.
- Choose a QR code solution you want to use.
- Provide the required data to proceed.
- Click the Generate QR code button.
- Customize your QR code design to give it that unique vibe.
You can do a lot to personalize your code, such as choosing the correct color combination, selecting frames, eyes, and pattern styles, and adding a call to action (CTA) and a logo.
- Test if your QR code still works, especially after the customization
- Download your QR code in your desired format. If you’ll print your QR code, it’s best to choose the SVG format.
How to avoid scanning problems with QR code
There are several reasons when having a scanning problem. Check the list below to identify what might be causing your QR code errors.
Use proper color contrast
The rule of thumb when customizing your QR code color is this: The background should be lighter than the pattern. The pattern needs to be dark to get easily detected by the scanner.
If you invert this concept, the scanner will need to take its time interpreting your data or might not be able to recognize it at all.
Also, when you edit a QR code, avoid using the same color for both the pattern and the background; the scanner will not detect which part is which, resulting in scanning errors.
Do not use pixilated QR codes
Remember that every part of your QR code is necessary for the scanners to interpret the data. Scanners don’t like pixilated patterns.
Why does a pattern become pixelated? When too much data and your solution type can’t handle it.
Static solutions, for instance, directly store the data, and it reflects in the pattern. The larger the data, the denser the pattern will look.
To avoid this, use the dynamic QR code from your free QR code generator instead. It only stores short URLs, which makes it invulnerable to the effect of data size, like in static.
Do not over customize
Personalizing your QR code may be fun, but overdoing it might cause trouble. Avoid cluttering your QR code design, as it might be a problem for the scanner.
You can make your customized QR code fun and creative, but not at the expense of the QR code function.
Use proper lighting when scanning
Another factor that affects QR code readability is how you scan the actual QR code. When there’s not enough light, scanners naturally have to make an extra effort to detect your code.
So make sure to place your QR code in good lighting and clutter-free places for your QR code to get scanned.
Natural light is preferred since camera flashes might cause a reflection, especially if covered with acetate or clear plastic.
Check your distance
Distance also impacts scanning, and it is coupled with the concept of how small can a QR code be.
Scanning a small QR code from a distance will just cause scanning errors. It will be hard to detect; likewise, scanning a large QR code too close will result in scanning errors.
You must distance yourself from a large QR code to make sure that you can capture the entirety of the QR code.
Make no room for errors with your QR codes
Avoiding users’ disappointment? It’s time to put your codes to the test.
Running a QR code test scan is crucial to ensure it delivers a seamless user experience and provides accurate information.
So why not take the plunge and give it a shot? By scanning your QR code first on your device, you can guarantee its reliability and optimize user engagement.
Remember, testing is not just for tech experts; it’s for everyone who wants their QR codes to shine.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your codes truly exceptional. Check out the free QR code generator now.
Frequently asked question
How do you check if a QR code is valid?
To validate QR codes, simply scan it using your phone's camera or a QR code scanner app.
Verify that the content it reveals, such as a URL or text, matches what you expect and leads to the correct information.
For additional QR code verification, you can test the link or content to ensure it's legitimate. Online tools can also decode QR codes to help confirm their accuracy.
