QR Code Best Practices (Size, Contrast, Error Correction, Content Limits)
Make scannable, reliable QR codes: minimum size, error correction levels, color contrast, quiet zone, data capacity, and tracking ethics.
- #qr
- #image
- #usability
- #accessibility
- #tracking
Good QR codes scan instantly across mid‑tier phones, glare, and distance. Poor ones frustrate users, reduce conversion, and can even misroute when tracking layers break. This guide explains the essentials for scannable, ethical codes you can prototype with our QR Code Generator.
Minimum size
Rule of thumb: at least 1 cm (≈0.4 in) per 10 scanning inches (distance / 10). For posters or signage, oversize generously. Tiny codes on glossy surfaces fail quickly.
Contrast & colors
- Dark modules on a light background best. Invert only if you test widely.
- Avoid gradients reducing edge clarity.
- Maintain a clean quiet zone (margin) of at least 4 modules around the code.
Error correction levels
QR supports L (~7%), M (~15%), Q (~25%), H (~30%) redundancy. Higher = survives damage / logos but reduces data capacity. Pick M or Q for most marketing use; H if you overlay a small centered logo.
Data capacity & density
Short URLs scan faster. Use an HTTPS short link rather than embedding long campaign parameters. Dense (Version 10+) codes degrade at distance and under motion blur.
Tracking ethics
Link shorteners enable metrics—but avoid deceptive redirects or fingerprinting. Provide a human‑readable fallback URL near the code for transparency.
Testing checklist
- Scan under indoor + outdoor light.
- Test on at least one older mid‑range phone.
- Print test at target size and verify from intended distance.
- Check that final landing page is mobile‑optimized and fast.
Common mistakes
- Removing quiet zone with decorative borders.
- Embedding overcrowded UTM parameters directly.
- Low contrast on colored backgrounds.
- Exporting blurry raster images instead of crisp vector / high DPI.
Related tools
Next steps
Refine: simplify URL, select error correction level, test physical print, monitor ethically. Then explore more utilities in our full tool index.
Targets queries: "qr code best practices", "qr code size", "qr code error correction" and related scanning quality phrases.