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QR Code Generator

Turn any text or URL into a scannable QR code in seconds. Choose the error correction level, download PNG or SVG — free, no sign-up.

What you can encode

A QR code stores text — that is all it is. Most people encode URLs, but Wi-Fi credentials, plain contact details, short messages, and app-store links all work. The encoder here uses byte mode, so any UTF-8 text is accepted, including emoji and non-Latin scripts. Keep it short: versions 1–10 support roughly 340 bytes at the lowest error correction level, and longer text is rejected with a clear message rather than silently producing an unreadable code.

Error correction levels, explained

QR codes include built-in redundancy so they still scan when scratched, partially covered, or photographed at an angle. Level L restores about 7% of damaged data, M about 15%, Q about 25%, and H about 30%. The trade-off is density: higher levels need more modules for the same text. For codes shown on screens, M is the sweet spot; for printed codes that will live outdoors or be handled roughly, choose Q or H. You can read more about getting one for nothing on our free QR code generator page.

PNG or SVG: which download?

Choose based on where the code will live. SVG is vector: it scales from a business card to a billboard without blurring, making it the right choice for print. PNG is raster at your chosen pixel size (256, 512, or 1024 px) — perfect for documents, slides, and messaging apps. When in doubt, download both; they are generated instantly.

Test before you print

Always test-scan the code with your phone's camera before printing a batch. Check that URLs open the right page (watch for http vs https and trailing slashes), that the code has quiet space around it, and that printed codes are at least 2 × 2 cm for reliable scanning. Dark modules on a light background scan best; inverted or low-contrast designs often fail.

Private by design

Many online QR tools upload your text to generate the image — including the URLs and contact details you encode. This QR generator runs a hand-written encoder entirely in your browser: your text never leaves the tab.

Frequently asked questions

How much text can a QR code hold?

This encoder supports QR versions 1–10 in byte mode: roughly 340 bytes of UTF-8 text at error correction level L, less at higher levels. If your text is too long, you get a clear error instead of a broken code.

What do the error correction levels mean?

L recovers about 7% of damaged data, M about 15%, Q about 25%, and H about 30%. Higher levels survive more damage but produce denser codes. M is a good default for on-screen codes.

Should I download PNG or SVG?

SVG scales without blurring, so it is best for print, signage, and packaging. PNG is best for quick sharing, documents, and chat apps.

Do QR codes expire?

No. A QR code is just an encoding of your text — it works as long as scanners can read it. A link inside can still break if the target page moves or is deleted.

Is my text uploaded anywhere?

No. Encoding, rendering, and the download all happen in your browser tab.

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