Free QR code generator - Create a personalised QR code in 1 second

In today's digital world, QR codes have become ubiquitous, facilitating access to a variety of digital content in a matter of seconds. Whether you want to share a URL, a PDF file, or a business card, a free QR code generator can turn your information into a scannable QR code. This article explores in depth how to create a free QR code, why they're essential, and how to customise them to maximise their effectiveness.

What's a QR code?

A QR code, or "Quick Response" code, is a type of two-dimensional barcode designed to be quickly read by a digital device such as a smartphone. Unlike traditional barcodes, which can only hold a limited amount of information, QR codes can store a variety of data, including URLs, text, phone numbers, contact information (vCards), and much more.

QR codes were invented in 1994 by Denso Wave, a Toyota subsidiary, to track parts and vehicles during the manufacturing process. Their ability to store complex information and be scanned quickly has made them popular in sectors beyond the automotive industry.

How does a QR code work?

A QR code is made up of black modules arranged in a square on a white background. These modules encode data in binary form. When you scan a QR code with your smartphone or QR code reader, the device decodes the dots and displays the available information.

Types of QR codes

There are two main types of QR code: static and dynamic.

• Static QR Codes: Once created, these codes cannot be modified. They are ideal for permanent information such as fixed URLs. This is what we offer here in our QR code generator.
• Dynamic QR codes: These codes can be modified once they've been created. Generally speaking, they are not free, as they use an intermediary website to redirect to the URL of a page. The advantage is that the QR code remains the same, but the destination page can be modified.

How do I create a free QR code with a generator?

A QR code generator is an online tool that lets you create a QR code in just a few simple steps. You simply enter the information you wish to encode, choose the customisation options, and the generator creates the code for you. You can then download the generated QR code and use it on a variety of media.

Key features of a QR Code Generator

1. Data entry: You can enter various types of data, such as a URL, text, phone number or vCard.
2. Customisation: Choose colours, add a logo, and personalise the design to match your brand.
3. Download: Once the code has been generated, you can download it in different formats such as PNG, JPG or PDF.
4. Code types: The generators can create static or dynamic QR codes to suit your needs.

Alternatives to our QR code generator

Canva

Canva offers a QR code generator integrated into its graphic design platform, enabling you to create customised QR codes in just a few clicks.

Adobe

Adobe offers a reliable QR code generator with advanced customisation options such as rounded corners and different shapes.

Customise your free QR code

Personalising your QR code can improve user engagement. Here's how to personalise your QR code:

Choose Colours

Use your brand's colours to personalise the QR code. However, make sure the contrast is sufficient for the code to be scannable.

Shapes and Designs

Some QR code generators offer options for modifying the shapes of the code modules, adding a unique touch to your design.

How do I scan and read a QR code?

Scanning a QR code is quick and easy. Most modern smartphones have built-in applications for reading QR codes.

Using your smartphone's camera

Open your smartphone's camera application and point it at the QR code. A link will appear on the screen to access the encoded information.

QR Code Scanner applications

There are many free applications available on app stores that offer advanced features for scanning and managing QR codes. We recommend the Google Lens application for easy QR code reading: Google Lens.