What size should a QR code be?
The rule of thumb: a code should be at least one tenth of the distance it's scanned from. Enter your distance to get a size.
cm
Minimum size
Minimum sizes by use
| Where | Scanning distance | Minimum size |
|---|---|---|
| Business card | 20–30 cm | 2–2.5 cm |
| Flyer, menu card | 30–50 cm | 3–5 cm |
| Poster (A3, A2) | 1–2 m | 10–20 cm |
| Shop window | 1–3 m | 10–30 cm |
| Banner, vehicle | 3–5 m | 30–50 cm |
What makes a code need more space
- More data: a contact card or long text makes a denser pattern than a short link. Add about a third to the size.
- A logo in the middle hides part of the pattern, so the rest has to be easy to read.
- Low contrast, or a light code on a dark background.
- Poor light, glass, or a curved surface like a cup or a bottle.
The white border counts
Every QR code needs an empty margin around it, ideally four of its small squares wide. Don't let text, edges or images touch the code. You can set it under “Size and quality” in the generator.
Which file to send to the printer
- SVG: stays sharp at any size. Best for print shops and design programs.
- PNG at 2048 or 4096 px: fine for most print jobs up to A4.
- Never enlarge a small screenshot. It gets blurry and may stop scanning.