Guide
QR code print size: minimum size, distance and contrast
Short answer: a QR code should be at least 2 × 2 cm (0.8 in), and about one tenth of the distance people scan from – a code read from 2 m away should be about 20 cm wide.
The 10:1 rule
Phones need each dot of the code to be big enough on their camera. As a rule of thumb, divide the scanning distance by 10:
| Where | Scanning distance | Code width (at least) |
|---|---|---|
| Business card, label | 20–30 cm (8–12 in) | 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 in) |
| Flyer, menu, table tent | 30–50 cm (12–20 in) | 3–5 cm (1.2–2 in) |
| Poster, shop window | 1–2 m (3–6 ft) | 10–20 cm (4–8 in) |
| Sign, banner | 3–5 m (10–16 ft) | 30–50 cm (12–20 in) |
Codes with a lot of content have more, smaller dots and need more room. The print check in GITECHY QR calculates the minimum for your exact code.
Keep the white border
A QR code needs an empty border around it – the “quiet zone”, ideally 4 dots wide. Without it, text or pictures next to the code confuse the phone. Do not crop the downloaded file; leave the border in your layout.
Contrast and colours
- Dark code on a light background – always.
- Avoid light grey, yellow or pastel codes.
- Avoid glossy or reflective surfaces under strong light.
- For printing, ask your printer to keep the code in pure black (K) or a dark brand colour.
Simpler content, easier scans
A long web address makes a dense code. Use a short address – or a dynamic code, which always contains a short link (gtyqr.com/abc123), no matter how long the destination is.
Questions
Can a QR code be too big?
Not really – just make sure it fits in the camera view from where people stand.
Which file keeps the code sharp in print?
Vector files: PDF, EPS or SVG. They can be scaled to any size. See PNG, SVG, PDF or EPS?
Related
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