How do I create a QR code?

Paste any URL into the input above. The QR code generates instantly as you type — no button click needed. Click Download to save it as a high-quality PNG.

Is this QR code generator really free?

Yes, completely free with no account or sign-up required. You can generate and download as many QR codes as you need.

How long do QR codes last?

QR codes themselves never expire — they are just images encoding a URL. However, if you point the QR code at a short link with an expiry date set, the link will stop redirecting after that date. A QR code pointing to a plain URL works as long as the destination page is live.

What is the best URL format for a QR code?

Short URLs produce simpler, less dense QR codes that scan faster. We recommend shortening your URL at shortfy.co first, then generating the QR code from the short link. The QR code will have fewer dots, work at smaller sizes, and be more reliable in low-light conditions.

Can I track how many times a QR code is scanned?

QR codes are just images — they cannot track scans on their own. However, if you point the QR code at a Shortfy short link, every scan (click) is tracked automatically in your Shortfy dashboard — including country, device, and referrer data.

What is the minimum print size for a QR code?

The practical minimum is 2 cm × 2 cm (about 0.8 × 0.8 inches). Below this size many camera apps struggle to read the code reliably. For small stickers or packaging, shorten your URL first to produce a simpler code that works at smaller sizes.

Can I use this QR code commercially?

Yes. There are no restrictions on how you use QR codes generated here — personal, commercial, or otherwise.

Free QR Code Generator

Turn any URL into a scannable QR code — free, instant, no account needed. Download as PNG, ready for print or digital use.

Enter a URL above to generate your QR code

Tip: shorten your URL first for a simpler QR code that scans faster at small sizes.

How to create a QR code in 3 steps

Paste your URL

Enter any website address — your homepage, a social profile, a booking page, a payment link, or any other URL.

QR code generates instantly

No button to click. Your QR code appears the moment you finish typing and updates live as you make changes.

Download the PNG

Click Download to save a high-quality PNG file. Use it in print documents, presentations, on packaging, or anywhere you need it.

QR code best practices

Follow these guidelines to make sure your QR code scans reliably every time.

Shorten the URL first

Shorter URLs produce simpler QR codes with fewer dots — they scan faster and work reliably at small print sizes. Shorten at shortfy.co, then generate the QR code from the short link.

Minimum size: 2 cm × 2 cm

Below this threshold many phone cameras struggle to read the code reliably. For large-format print (banners, posters) bigger is always better.

Test on iOS and Android

Camera apps behave slightly differently between platforms. Always scan the final QR code on both before committing to a print run.

Keep contrast high

Dark code on a light background is the most reliable combination. Avoid placing the QR code over a busy background or using low-contrast colours.

Where to use QR codes

Business cards

Link to your LinkedIn profile, portfolio, booking page, or digital contact card. Networking contacts scan instead of typing.

Restaurant menus

Table QR codes pointing to a digital menu. Update the menu without reprinting by pointing the QR code to a short link you can edit.

Product packaging

Link to instruction manuals, warranty registration, recipe ideas, or loyalty programme sign-ups — saving print costs.

Event flyers and posters

Drive attendees to a registration page, livestream, or schedule. Scan counts tell you how many people engaged with your print materials.

Marketing campaigns

Include QR codes in direct mail, magazine ads, and out-of-home placements. Track scans via short-link analytics to measure print ROI.

Presentations and slides

Add a QR code to your final slide so the audience can open a resource, sign up, or purchase immediately — while still engaged.

Want to track QR code scans?

Point your QR code at a Shortfy short link and every scan is automatically tracked — click count, country, device type, and referrer. Free account, no credit card.

Create free account →Shorten a URL first

QR code generator FAQ

How do I create a QR code?: Paste any URL into the input above. The QR code generates instantly as you type — no button click needed. Click Download to save it as a high-quality PNG.
Is this QR code generator really free?: Yes, completely free with no account or sign-up required. You can generate and download as many QR codes as you need.
How long do QR codes last?: QR codes themselves never expire — they are just images encoding a URL. However, if you point the QR code at a short link with an expiry date set, the link will stop redirecting after that date. A QR code pointing to a plain URL works as long as the destination page is live.
What is the best URL format for a QR code?: Short URLs produce simpler, less dense QR codes that scan faster. We recommend shortening your URL at shortfy.co first, then generating the QR code from the short link. The QR code will have fewer dots, work at smaller sizes, and be more reliable in low-light conditions.
Can I track how many times a QR code is scanned?: QR codes are just images — they cannot track scans on their own. However, if you point the QR code at a Shortfy short link, every scan (click) is tracked automatically in your Shortfy dashboard — including country, device, and referrer data.
What is the minimum print size for a QR code?: The practical minimum is 2 cm × 2 cm (about 0.8 × 0.8 inches). Below this size many camera apps struggle to read the code reliably. For small stickers or packaging, shorten your URL first to produce a simpler code that works at smaller sizes.
Can I use this QR code commercially?: Yes. There are no restrictions on how you use QR codes generated here — personal, commercial, or otherwise.