The simplest rule for sizing a QR code is the 10:1 ratio: a code should be about one-tenth the distance from which people will scan it. If someone scans from 10 inches away (a flyer in hand), the code should be at least 1 inch. If they scan a poster from 10 feet away, it needs to be about 1 foot wide. When in doubt, go bigger — an oversized code always scans; an undersized one fails.
Recommended QR code sizes by use
- Business card: 0.8–1 inch (2–2.5 cm). Scanned up close, but don't go below 0.8 in or it gets unreliable.
- Flyer / brochure (handheld): 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm).
- Table tent / menu: 1.2–2 inches (3–5 cm).
- Poster (scanned from a few feet): 2–4 inches (5–10 cm).
- Storefront window / wall: 4–8 inches (10–20 cm).
- Billboard / large signage: scale with the 10:1 rule to the viewing distance — often 2–4 feet or more.
The quiet zone (don't skip this)
Every QR code needs a "quiet zone" — a margin of empty space around it, at least 4 modules (the small squares) wide. Crowding text or graphics right up to the edge is one of the most common reasons a code won't scan. Leave clear space around it.
Contrast and color
QR scanners need strong contrast: a dark code on a light background is safest. Avoid light-on-dark unless you've tested it, never use a code color lighter than its background, and keep busy photo backgrounds away from the code. If you add a center logo, keep it small (under ~30% of the code) and use high error correction so the code still scans.
Test before you print
Always scan your final design with two or three different phones before committing to a print run — ideally at the actual printed size. This 30 seconds is the difference between a working campaign and a reprint bill.
Tip: For large or high-resolution print, download your code as an SVG QR code for print so it stays sharp at any size. Need a code first? Use the free QR code generator.
See also: QR codes for flyers and posters and QR codes for business cards.