QR Code Generator: Create QR Codes
Quickly convert content into a QR Code with Scanova’s free QR Code Generator
Select Category
Image 
Restaurant 
Event 
Wedding 
App 
Audio 
Feedback 
Coupon 
Phone 
Email 
Calendar Event 
PayPal 
Text Message
When scanned, redirects user to a website
Enter a valid URL
Choose QR Design
Advanced Settings
When scanned, shows the specified text
Choose QR Design
Advanced Settings
Search on Google Maps When scanned, prompts scanning device to save contact
Simple Business Card
Business Card Templates
Choose from pre-designed templates to create customized Business Card QR Code
Choose QR Design
Advanced Settings
When scanned, prompts scanning device to automatically join a Wi-Fi network
Choose QR Design
When scanned, redirects user to uploaded documents
Upload Document(s) Choose QR Design
Advanced Settings
When scanned, displays link to social media profiles of your choice
Add Social Link 
Choose only 1 social media profile
Choose QR Design
Advanced Settings
When scanned, prompts Android or iPhone users to download app via Play Store or Apple Store respectively
Apple Store
Google Play
Choose QR Design
Advanced Settings
When scanned, redirects user to uploaded audio files
Choose QR Design
Advanced Settings
When scanned, prompts user to specified email content
Choose QR Design
When scanned, prompts scanning device to dial specified phone number
Choose QR Design
When scanned, shares Bitcoin wallet address with scanning app
Choose QR Design
When scanned, prompts scanning device to send a pre-loaded text message
Choose QR Design
When scanned, requests the user to make a payment via PayPal
Choose QR Design
Advanced Settings
When scanned, prompts scanning device to save event in calendar
Choose QR Design
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QR Codes explained
Here's what you need to know about QR Codes
What is a QR Code?
QR Codes, or Quick Response codes, are two-dimensional barcodes that were first developed in 1994 by the Japanese company Denso Wave. Their primary purpose was to facilitate the tracking of automotive parts, but they have since evolved into a versatile tool utilized across various sectors. QR Codes function by encoding information in a pattern of black squares arranged on a white grid, which can be scanned by devices equipped with cameras, such as smartphones.
When scanned, users can quickly access information encoded in the code, which directs them to websites, displays text, or initiates other digital actions. A QR Code can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters. When it comes to numerical data, it can store up to 7,089 characters. Today, QR Codes are extremely popular in marketing, payments, and authentication use cases.
When scanned, users can quickly access information encoded in the code, which directs them to websites, displays text, or initiates other digital actions. A QR Code can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters. When it comes to numerical data, it can store up to 7,089 characters. Today, QR Codes are extremely popular in marketing, payments, and authentication use cases.
Why QR Codes matter in 2026?
QR Codes are essential in 2026 because they seamlessly bridge print and digital worlds, transforming every physical touchpoint into an interactive engagement opportunity. According to Scanova's internal usage data, QR Code creation grew by over 300% from 2020-21 to 2023-24. This highlights the skyrocketing adoption of QR Codes across industries. Businesses are harnessing QR Codes for real-time insights, personalized experiences, and frictionless journeys—whether it’s instant access to information, contactless payments, lead generation, or campaign tracking.
QR Codes aren’t just for marketing—they streamline operations, boost sustainability by reducing paper usage, and unlock data-driven growth. In a landscape where first-party data and customer engagement are critical, adopting QR Codes is a smart, future-proof strategy for brands intent on staying ahead. With over 6.8 billion smartphone users globally , QR Codes simplify information access and power data-driven marketing for businesses. As consumers demand faster, smarter, and more frictionless interactions, QR Codes are no longer optional; they are essential to stay relevant, responsive, and competitive in a mobile-first world.
QR Codes aren’t just for marketing—they streamline operations, boost sustainability by reducing paper usage, and unlock data-driven growth. In a landscape where first-party data and customer engagement are critical, adopting QR Codes is a smart, future-proof strategy for brands intent on staying ahead. With over 6.8 billion smartphone users globally , QR Codes simplify information access and power data-driven marketing for businesses. As consumers demand faster, smarter, and more frictionless interactions, QR Codes are no longer optional; they are essential to stay relevant, responsive, and competitive in a mobile-first world.
What is the difference between Static and Dynamic QR Codes?
Static vs Dynamic QR Codes—Static QR Codes are basic QR Codes that directly encode the target content, just like a barcode. They work forever but are non-trackable and non-editable. Dynamic QR Codes
are specialized. They allow you to edit linked content at any time and track scanning activity. QR Code service providers also enable access to other advanced features such as lead generation, custom mobile landing pages, advanced user and engagement tracking, and conditional redirection. Advanced QR Code Makers such as Scanova can generate both Static and Dynamic QR Codes. As per internal usage data, around 98% of Scanova's QR Codes created today are dynamic.
| Parameter | Static QR Code | Dynamic QR Code |
|---|---|---|
Editable Content
|
✕ | ✓ |
Trackable
|
✕ | ✓ |
Advanced Features
|
✕ | ✓ |
Access
|
Free (forever) | Subscription required |
Expiry
|
Doesn't expire | As per the subscription plan |
How do I scan QR Codes?
QR Codes can be scanned using any generic QR Code scanner app or default QR Code scanning feature available in your smartphone. Depending on the handset, Android users can use their camera app, Google Lens, or any third-party scanning app. While iPhone users can use the camera app to scan. Most smartphones are now equipped with a QR Code scanning feature or app.
How to create a QR Code for free?
Follow 3 simple steps to make a QR Code using Scanova's QR Builder
Step
01
Select QR Code Type
Select a QR Code type based on your specific use case
Step
02
Enter Content
Add required content like Website URL, text, contact info, and more
Step
03
Check & Download
Scan and test your Static QR Code. Download the image as a PNG.
How do QR Codes work their magic?
Incorporating QR Codes into print collateral can streamline operations, enhance customer
interaction, and drive growth across industries
Turn paper into instant access
Add a QR Code to brochures, flyers, or product packaging so users can scan and view user manuals, how-to videos,
audio guides , images, product specifications, discounts, and other relevant resources
Never lose another business card
Share vCards or digital business cards
via QR Codes on print ads or business cards, allowing recipients to instantly save your contact details
One-scan app installs
Place QR Codes on posters, billboards, or packaging that link directly to your app in the App Store or Google Play, making it easy for customers to install your app with a single scan
Skip the search, go straight to follow
Use QR Codes on business cards, packaging, or event materials to direct customers to your Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn profiles—helping you build your audience and engagement
GPS navigation made simple
Print QR Codes on invitations, posters, or storefronts that direct to your business or event location in Google Maps, helping visitors find you effortlessly
Event details at lightning speed
Use QR Codes on invites, flyers, or posters to provide instant access key event details. The QR Code landing page
can also include a prominent RSVP button, allowing guests to confirm their attendance with a single tap.
Feedback collection that actually works
Add QR Codes to receipts, menus, or product packaging that link to feedback forms or review sites, allowing customers to easily share their opinions
Content downloads without the hassle
Use QR Codes on posters or handouts to let users instantly download e-books, whitepapers, guides, catalogs, and more—making content distribution fast, eco-friendly, and trackable
Why create QR Codes? Big wins, small effort.
Stop leaving money on the table, make every print collateral work harder
Turn static print into a sales machine
Add QR Codes to your print marketing materials to transform static materials into gateways for engagement, registrations, or even sales. Your target audience can scan and immediately access offers, sign-up forms, product demos, or shopping pages, and more.
Bridge offline to online in one scan
QR Codes provide the fastest link between offline print collaterals and online content. With a simple scan, users can instantly view product details, videos, menus, brochures, or instructions. This eliminates friction and improves the offline-to-online experience.
Finally track your print campaign ROI
Every scan is a trackable event, allowing you to calculate the ROI of your print advertising campaigns. Easily collect
data on scan rates
, locations, timing, and more to gain insights into what resonates with your audience and refine future strategies.
Turn scanners into lifelong customers
QR Codes can do more than just engage—use them to generate leads and nurture ongoing relationships. Enable customers to sign up for newsletters, download apps, or participate in loyalty programs with one scan, so you can keep re-engaging your audience long after the initial campaign is over.
Marketing made simple and smart
QR Codes are easy to create, require no special technical skills, and are one of the most cost-effective marketing technologies. You can update the linked content without reprinting materials, minimizing costs and keeping your campaigns effective and up-to-date.
Ready to unlock even more with Scanova's
online QR Code Generator?
Built for unbreakable data safety
At Scanova, your security and privacy are our top priorities. Our platform adheres to ISO/IEC 27001:2022, GDPR, and SOC2 compliance standards, ensuring your data is always handled with the highest level of protection.
Types of QR Codes you can create using Scanova's free tool
These Static QR Codes will work forever and cannot be edited or tracked
Website URL QR Code
When scanned, redirects user to the specified website
Document QR Code
When scanned, redirects user to the uploaded document(s)
Image QR Code
When scanned, user can view or download image(s)
Google Maps QR Code
When scanned, displays a location on Google Maps
Simple Business Card QR Code
When scanned, prompts scanning device to save contact
Social Media QR Code
When scanned, displays link to social media profiles of your choice
Audio QR Code
When scanned, redirects user to uploaded audio files
Text QR Code
When scanned, displays the specified text on the scanning device
Phone QR Code
When scanned, prompts scanning device to dial specified phone number
Email QR Code
When scanned, prompts user to specified email content
Calendar Event QR Code
When scanned, prompts scanning device to save event in calendar
WiFi QR Code
When scanned, prompts scanning device to automatically join a Wi-Fi network
6 proven ways to double your scans
Maximize the impact of your QR Codes with these strategies
Customize QR Code design
Your target audience can confuse plain black-and-white marketing QR Codes with non-customer-facing barcodes. Plus, a plain QR Code will mostly not align with the design of your marketing creative. Add design and branding elements to make your
custom QR Codes
visually appealing and attract 50-200% more scans than standard QR Codes. Note: You cannot customize the QR Code design using the free QR Maker tool. Start a 14-day free trial to access advanced features like customization.
Add converting frames to QR Codes
According to an
eMarketer report
, the number of US smartphone users scanning a QR Code will increase from 83.4 million in 2022 to 99.5 million in 2025. Hence, it's advisable to make your QR Codes stand out by adding elements like
ready-made frames
. Frames are graphics that come in multiple designs and enclose the QR Code—enhancing the overall visual appeal of the QR Code.
Add a call-to-action
Inform your target audience about what the QR Code does. Some good examples of call-to-action (CTA) text are—Scan for Menu, Scan to Watch Tutorial, Scan to Donate, Scan to Read Full Article, and Follow on Instagram.
Tip: You can add CTA text in the center of the QR Code if you are short of space.
Tip: You can add CTA text in the center of the QR Code if you are short of space.
Ensure scannability
Users can find it frustrating when a QR Code doesn't respond. Scannability depends on size, color contrast, scanning distance, and lighting.
- The minimum size of a QR Code should be 1 inch or 3 cm or 115 pixels (both width and height)
- In case of colored QR Codes, it’s best to opt for high-contrast between foreground and background colors
- Always maintain a ratio close to 10:1—if a QR Code is to be scanned from 100 cm away, it must be at least 10 cm wide
- Ensure good lighting conditions around the QR Code for successful QR Code reading
Make it accessible
To make your QR Code accessible, you need to ensure both safe scanning distance and easy access to mobile internet. Placing QR Codes on moving vehicles, distant billboards, or the bottom section of print material can reduce accessibility. Limited network/WiFi areas, like flight or underground stations, can also affect scans.
Link to mobile-optimized content
Whether you are using a
professional QR Code Generator or a free online QR Code Generator
,
these codes are meant to be scanned by mobile devices. Hence, it's best to craft a smooth and mobile-friendly experience for the target audience.
Tip: You can easily create a custom mobile page using Scanova if you don't have one.
Tip: You can easily create a custom mobile page using Scanova if you don't have one.
From solopreneurs to Fortune 500—all have grown with Scanova
See what our customers are saying about our online QR Code Generator
Embracing the future of QR Codes
QR Codes have evolved into indispensable tools for businesses, marketers, and professionals, bridging the gap between offline and online worlds. With benefits like instant access, customization, robust analytics, and security, a QR Generator software empowers you to create engaging, interactive experiences for your audience.
Ready to generate your QR Codes? Explore Scanova’s free trial and experience a professional QR Code Generator tool designed for ease, security, and maximum impact.
14-day free trial | No credit card required
Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers related to Scanova QR Code Generator
How do QR Codes work?
A QR Code works by encoding information—such as a website link, contact details, or text—into a two-dimensional grid of squares. When you scan a QR Code with a smartphone or QR Code scanner, the encoded data is instantly decoded. A QR Code Generator like Scanova lets you create QR Codes for multiple uses by inputting your desired data, customizing the appearance, and downloading your code.
Will QR Codes replace barcodes?
GS1 QR Codes are set to replace traditional barcodes for inventory management and retail, driven by the
GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative
. Leading brands like L'Oréal are already adopting these codes, which can store much more information than standard barcodes—enabling better inventory tracking, traceability, and consumer engagement. While both barcodes and GS1 QR Codes will coexist for some time, the industry trend indicates that GS1 QR Codes will become the future standard for product identification and inventory management.
What is the maximum data capacity of a QR Code?
A QR Code can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters. When it comes to numerical data, it can store up to 7,089 characters. Compared to barcodes, QR Codes have a much higher data storage capacity. This allows them to encode large amounts of information in a compact space.
What are QR Codes used for?
QR Codes are used for a wide range of applications, including marketing promotions,
product packaging
, event ticketing, business cards, sharing web links, and delivering multimedia content. Their versatility and high data capacity make them valuable in many sectors.
Does Scanova have a free online QR Code Generator?
Yes. Scanova offers a free online QR Code Generator that allows you to create and download Static QR Codes.
How do I create a QR Code for free without signing up?
You don't need to sign up while using Scanova's free online QR Code Generator. Simply select a QR Code type, enter your content, and download the image file. Note: Scanova offers a free QR Code Generator that allows you to create Static QR Codes. For editable and trackable Dynamic QR Codes, a 14-day free trial is available.
What is the maximum number of QR Codes that I can create using Scanova?
The maximum number of QR Codes you can create depends on your subscription plan. Visit
Scanova’s pricing page
to learn more. You can create 3 Dynamic QR Codes in your free trial.
Can I create a QR Code that directs my target audience to a website?
Yes, you can easily create a
Website URL QR Code
that directs users to any website when scanned. As per Scanova's internal data, Website URL QR Code is one of the most used QR Code categories.
Does Scanova offer a Google Maps QR Code Generator?
You can create
Google Maps QR Code
or Location QR Code using Scanova. Upon scanning this QR Code, your target audience will be shown the specified location on Google Maps.
Are QR Codes from Scanova safe to use and scan?
Yes, all QR Codes created using Scanova are secure. Scanova is ISO/IEC 27001:2022, GDPR, and SOC2 compliant. The QR Builder adheres to stringent security protocols, ensuring that user data is protected and secure. Note: While generating QR Codes, always use secure URLs (HTTPS) and only link to trusted resources.
How much does a Dynamic QR Code cost?
The cost of a Dynamic QR Code depends on your subscription plan. Scanova offers several pricing plans with different features, typically billed monthly or annually. You can choose a plan based on your campaign needs and required analytics. Visit
Scanova’s pricing page
to learn more. You can always opt for the 14-day free trial before purchasing a plan.
Can I know how my QR Codes are performing?
Yes. In the case of Dynamic QR Codes, you can track the performance of your codes. Get data on the number of scans by date, day, time, city, country, type of device, browser, operating system, and handset. Also, get to know the exact GPS location of each scan. Static QR Codes cannot be tracked.
Can I customize my QR Codes?
Yes, Scanova allows you to customize your QR Codes. You can change their color, add your logo, adjust patterns, insert frames, and select branded short URLs to align with your brand identity, making the codes more engaging and trustworthy to users.
What types of content can I convert into a QR Code?
You can generate QR Codes for various content types, including links, documents, images, audio files, Google Maps locations, business cards, calendar events, and contact details. Select a QR Code type that matches your specific use case for best results.
Will my Static QR Codes ever expire?
No. Static QR Codes work forever and don't expire, as they directly encode the target information. However, this means that the information cannot be updated or edited after the code is generated.
Is there a limit to how many times a QR Code can be scanned?
No. With Scanova, there is no limit on the number of times your QR Codes can be scanned. Whether you use Static or Dynamic QR Codes, users can scan them unlimited times without restrictions.
Can QR Codes function if they are partially damaged?
Yes. QR Codes are designed with error correction capabilities that allow them to remain scannable even if partially damaged or obscured. Scanova-generated QR Codes typically support up to 30% error correction, depending on the level you select when generating the code. This robustness ensures reliable scanning even when the code is smudged, torn, or distorted.
Can I reuse a QR Code?
Dynamic QR Codes can be reused as they are editable. You can change the destination content whenever required. Static QR Codes cannot be reused as they are non-editable.
Does Scanova provide a bulk QR Code generator?
Scanova provides a bulk QR Code generation feature that allows you to create multiple QR Codes simultaneously. Simply upload your data in a specified template (such as a spreadsheet), and Scanova will automatically generate the QR Codes in bulk for quick and efficient distribution.
What is the advantage of linking a QR Code to a landing page?
Linking a QR Code to a landing page allows you to update and optimize content without changing the QR Code itself. It also helps you deliver targeted messages, track user engagement, capture leads, and provide a seamless mobile experience.
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