A few years back, I remember walking into my favorite pastry shop and effortlessly flipping through a glossy, laminated menu before ordering. Now, every time I dine out, I\u2019m handed a table tent instructing me to scan a QR code with my phone to browse the menu.<\/p>\n\n
And it\u2019s not just restaurants \u2014 many shops, cafes, and even art galleries urge us to point our cameras at tiny squares to pay bills, see product details, or access guides. It\u2019s as though these codes bridge the traditional, tangible world and the digital realm.<\/p>\n
Today, creating your own QR code is incredibly simple, and it\u2019s a convenient, low-effort way to bridge the online and offline experience in your business, save overhead costs, and execute sleek marketing campaigns. In this article, I\u2019ll show you how to make your own QR code for a link in just five steps \u2014 even if you\u2019re not a tech expert.<\/p>\n
Table of Contents<\/strong><\/p>\n What is a QR code?<\/a> <\/a> <\/p>\n QR code is short for \u2018quick response\u2019 code. It’s a square-shaped black-and-white symbol that is scanned with a smartphone or laser to learn more about a product or service. These encrypted squares can hold content, links, coupons, event details, and other information that users want to see.<\/p>\n QR codes typically look like this:<\/p>\n\n Not every QR code is shaped like a perfect square. Sometimes, they have unique patterns, colors, and logos<\/a> displayed inside. You’ll find them in non-digital spaces like direct mail, signage, billboards, and even TV shows where you can scan the code on the screen using your phone.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n QR codes and barcodes are similar in that they are both visual representations of data, but how the information stored within them is read sets them apart. Barcodes are one-dimensional, and the data stored in them is read horizontally. QR codes are two-dimensional, and the data stored in them is read horizontally and vertically.<\/p>\n Both barcodes and QR codes can be scanned using a laser or a smartphone as long as the tool being used has the correct capabilities of reading vertical and horizontal data. Although most smartphones scan QR codes automatically, many won\u2018t scan barcodes so easily \u2014 you\u2019ll need a special app<\/a> for that.<\/p>\n Does the rise of QR codes mean traditional barcodes are a thing of the past? Of course not. Traditional barcodes are still a common way for businesses to identify consumer packaged goods (CPGs) and manage their product inventory.<\/p>\n\n However, there are several differences between barcodes and QR codes \u2014 both in their uses and their characteristics. Below are three important differences.<\/p>\n Barcodes are typically rectangular, which requires scanning devices to read the barcode’s data horizontally. QR codes are often square-shaped, displaying their data vertically and horizontally.<\/p>\n QR codes are often used differently than barcodes. Barcodes hold key product information at the point of sale, such as the price and name of the manufacturer. QR codes offer more passive and intangible information, such as location data and URLs, to promotions and product landing pages.<\/p>\n Due to a QR code’s square shape, it can hold much more data compared to a barcode. QR codes can hold hundreds of times more encrypted characters than a barcode can.<\/p>\n We learned a little bit about how barcodes and QR codes differ, but how exactly do QR codes work?<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n Originally designed in Japan for use in the automotive industry, marketers adopted the QR code because of its large storage capacity and ability to translate additional information to consumers beyond what the packaging or advertising of a product could display.<\/p>\n Let\u2018s say a consumer sees a QR code. They can take out their mobile device, download a free QR code scanning app, or simply use their phone\u2019s camera, and scan the QR code to gain more information about what they saw.<\/p>\n If you wanted to create, say, a bus stop advertisement promoting your podcast, you could display a QR code on that printed ad that brings people right to your iTunes page when they scan it with their phones. Pretty simple, right?<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n I used to think creating a QR code was difficult, but it\u2019s actually not. No matter the device I\u2019m using, the process feels pretty seamless. Here\u2019s what I do.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n First, I open up whatever browser I have handy \u2014 Chrome, Safari, Firefox \u2014 and navigate to a QR code maker. For this demonstration, I\u2019m using qr-code-generator.com<\/a>. Don\u2019t worry if you prefer another site; there are plenty of other free, web-based QR code tools out there. If you\u2019re stuck, here are a few recommendations<\/a>.<\/p>\n Usually, I\u2019m creating a QR code to send someone to a website, so I just type in the URL into the QR code generator. But it doesn\u2019t have to be a link \u2014 I can also turn a contact card, a PDF, or even an MP3 into a QR code.<\/p>\n At the bottom, there are options to create QR codes for things like Microsoft Word and PowerPoint files, too. The exact selection depends on the tool, but most platforms will give me fields to fill in once I pick a content type. For example, if I want my QR code to save contact info, I\u2019ll see fields for my email address, subject line, and message.<\/p>\n Once I enter my URL or upload a file, the tool instantly generates a QR code. Technically, I could download it right away, but I prefer to spruce it up a bit first to make it feel more on-brand.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s where the fun begins. I love that I can add my logo or switch up the color scheme to match my website design<\/a> and overall brand vibe. Using the basic generator on qr-code-generator.com<\/a>, I can tweak the frame, shape, or colors. If I need more customization, I can sign up and head into the creator portal for even more design options.<\/p>\n After signing up, I get access to something like this:<\/p>\n\n Just keep in mind, not every QR code tool out there offers these customization features. If you can\u2019t find what you need in one place, you might need to try another generator.<\/p>\n If I\u2019m aiming for speed and simplicity, I skip the sign-up and just hit Download<\/strong>. The site I\u2019m using might nudge me to create an account, but I ignore those prompts unless I really want to store and manage multiple QR codes.<\/p>\n A message at the top usually says my code is being created and to avoid refreshing the page. Within a couple of minutes, a pop-up will appear so I can save my shiny new QR code and start using it. And that\u2019s it \u2014 I\u2019ve got a custom QR code ready to go!<\/p>\n A QR code won’t be able to do its job unless people see it. So, make sure you add the code to any materials that will help you market your business. This could include displaying it in print ads, on clothing, or in physical locations where people can take out their phones to scan it. Scroll down for more tips on properly displaying a QR code<\/a>.<\/p>\n As for how you’ll add the JPG or vector file to print collateral, you can do so with a variety of tools, including:<\/p>\n Canva<\/a> \u2014 Canva is an online design tool that lets you import JPG files and add them to your design. It offers flier and brochure templates for easy creation. <\/p>\n BeFunky<\/a> \u2014 BeFunky is a tool similar to Canva and allows you to add JPG files to a design. It also offers templates for you to choose from. <\/p>\n Adobe Illustrator<\/a> and InDesign<\/a> \u2014 If you’re a more advanced user, you can use a dedicated graphic design tool to add your QR code to pamphlets and brochures. Illustrator is a good fit for one-page designs; InDesign is a better fit for multi-page brochures. <\/p>\n If you\u2018re on a mobile device, good news: You can easily create a QR code that you can share with colleagues and prospects on the go. You\u2019ll need the Google Chrome app to do so. Here\u2019s how I create QR codes on Android and iOS devices:<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n I\u2019ve found that making a QR code on my Android phone is really straightforward, especially if I\u2019m using the Chrome app. Right now, you can only create QR codes for URLs, but that\u2019s perfect when I need to quickly share a product page, blog post<\/a>, or any other webpage with someone.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s what I do:<\/p>\n I start by downloading the Google Chrome app from the Google Play Store. In the pop-up menu, I select Share<\/strong>. From here, I can either tap Download <\/strong>at the bottom to save the QR code as an image, or I can just hold my phone up for someone else to scan it. <\/p>\n And that\u2019s it \u2014 I\u2019ve got a shareable QR code right from my phone.<\/p>\n Note:<\/strong> The interface may look a little different depending on your version of Chrome.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n Just like on Android, I can easily make a QR code on my iPhone or iPad. Here\u2019s my process:<\/p>\n First, I download the Google Chrome app from the App Store. Note: the Google search app won\u2019t work for this. Then, I select Create a QR Code<\/strong>. <\/p>\n From here, I can hold my phone up for someone else to scan, or I can tap Share <\/strong>to print the QR code, save the image to my camera roll, or store it in my files for later use. <\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n Creating a QR code with Chrome on desktop is just as easy as on Android and iOS. Here’s how to do it:<\/p>\n I open Chrome on my computer. From the pop-up, I select Cast, save, and share<\/strong>, then hit Create QR code<\/strong>. <\/p>\n Now, I can either copy the QR link, download the QR code, or scan it with a camera on another device. <\/p>\n Pro tip:<\/strong> If you click Copy<\/strong>, Chrome will add it to your clipboard as an image. This is super handy if you want to quickly paste the code into a design tool like Canva or Photoshop.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n Making a QR code on Microsoft Edge is also a breeze. It\u2019s very similar to doing it on Chrome, and I love how quickly I can share URLs with others or save the QR code directly to my device. Here\u2019s how I do it:<\/p>\n I open Microsoft Edge on my computer. That\u2019s it! The QR code instantly appears on my screen, ready to be scanned by someone else. If I want to hang onto it, I can download it right to my laptop. <\/p>\n Bonus:<\/strong> Once I\u2019ve created the QR code, Microsoft Edge \u201cremembers\u201d it. If I ever need it again, I just click the QR code icon<\/strong> on the right side of the address bar, and there it is!<\/p>\n By following these steps, you can easily create a QR code using Microsoft Edge, allowing you to easily share URLs with others or conveniently save the code for future use.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n Now that you see how simple the QR code creation process can be, let\u2018s talk about some best practices that\u2019ll increase the likelihood that your QR code actually gets used.<\/p>\n Put QR codes in places where scanning them is easy, and there\u2018s enough time for the consumer to scan the code. While you may often see QR codes on billboards and TV commercials, they\u2019re not exactly the most user-friendly locations.<\/p>\n It’s a safety hazard to entice people to pull out their phones while driving to scan a code, and a 30-second commercial might not be enough time for someone to find their phone and scan the TV.<\/p>\n Instead, think of places where consumers have the time and ability to scan the code. Places with a strong Wi-Fi connection will help, too.<\/p>\n Mobile-optimize the page to which you’re sending people. Consumers will be using their phones when scanning the QR code, so they should arrive at a page with a positive mobile experience.<\/p>\n Offer a call-to-action (CTA) with the code \u2014 that is to say, tell people what they\u2018re supposed to do when they see the code and what they\u2019ll receive if they scan it. Not everyone knows exactly what a QR code is, and those who do won\u2018t be motivated to scan it unless they\u2019re sure there’s something worthwhile on the other side.<\/p>\n Don’t require a special QR code scanner. Your QR code should be app-agnostic so anyone can scan your code with any reader. A lower barrier to entry makes success more likely for you and the user.<\/p>\n Don\u2018t use a QR code just for the sake of using one. For instance, it\u2019s common for marketers to think, \u201cHow can I bridge the offline experience with the online experience? Uhhh … QR code!\u201d That\u2018s not wrong, but it\u2019s not always right, either.<\/p>\n If you have content that makes sense to deliver to a mobile user, and you have an appropriate channel to do it (see use #1 at the beginning of this section), it’s more likely your QR code will drive results.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n You don\u2018t want to add a QR code to digital content that people consume primarily on their mobile devices. This includes social media posts, stories, videos, and SMS messages. Sure, each of these content types can technically be viewed outside of a smartphone, but they typically aren\u2019t, so save those channels for traditional URLs and sharing methods.<\/p>\n Earlier, we showed you an example of how to create your own QR code, but you don’t have to create it from scratch. A QR code generator can speed up the process (and take a lot of math out of it, too.)<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n There are tons of QR code generators out there. The best ones give you many customizable options for using your QR code and compatibility with just about all mobile QR code reader apps.<\/p>\n Other things to look for when choosing a QR code generator are whether you can track and analyze performance in real time and design a code that’s unique to your brand.<\/p>\n Below are some of our favorite QR code generators that make custom QR codes quick and easy to create.<\/p>\n Kaywa is a simple, no-fuss QR code generator that creates basic codes for coupons, URLs, and contact information. Simply enter your information, choose whether you want a dynamic or static code, and generate it.<\/p>\n If I\u2019m using my QR code as part of a marketing campaign, I can track analytics through Kaywa by creating an account. This means I\u2019ll have up-to-date data on who interacted with my code, where they were when they scanned it, and when they did so. It\u2019s incredibly helpful for understanding how my audience engages with my content.<\/p>\n GOQR.me is a simple QR code generator that works best with short URLs, but it can be used to store text, geolocation, and event data. Simply click on the icon that corresponds to your data and fill in the fields.<\/p>\n I like this tool because I can see a live preview of my QR code in real time, which helps me quickly make any final tweaks to my marketing materials. Plus, if I\u2019m willing to pay a bit extra, I can even have a GOQR.me-affiliated designer add my logo for a more customized, branded look.<\/p>\n QR codes work best when you have something to offer the people who scan them. And chances are, you’re probably selling to people who buy products online with their phones every day.<\/p>\n I love that Shopify lets me create a QR code with a single click, and I don\u2019t even need to own a Shopify store to take advantage of this free tool. Plus, I can see the QR code preview as it\u2019s being generated, which gives me confidence that everything looks just right before I finalize it.<\/p>\n Looking for a one-of-a-kind QR code that suits your brand to a \u201cT\u201d? Visualead is the tool we recommend for the job.<\/p>\n I\u2019ve found that visual QR codes tend to grab more attention and spark more curiosity than the usual black-and-white codes. Because of this, I might get more scans and better engagement from my audience.<\/p>\n The-qrcode-generator.com features a simple UI that lets you create a unique QR code in minutes. Simply add your URL or the information you want to share, and your QR code will appear instantly.<\/p>\n There\u2019s a Google Chrome extension I can download if I\u2019m making several QR codes at the same time. That can streamline the process and help me work more efficiently.<\/p>\n As one of the more robust QR code generators, QR Stuff can create codes for just about any type of data you want to share with the world. YouTube videos, Zoom meeting invitations, and even Bitcoin information are supported through this tool.<\/p>\n In just three steps, I\u2019ll have a free, customizable QR code that looks great and works exactly as I need it to. Plus, there\u2019s no limit to how many codes I can create.<\/p>\n I used this QR code generator in our how-to guide above<\/a>, and for good reason. Qr-code-generator.com is a simple tool that’s user-friendly for even the least tech-savvy of us. Simply drop your link into the box, and let the generator do all the work.<\/p>\n I find QR-code-generator.com really intuitive. It automatically detects the type of URL I provide and generates a fully functional QR code in just a few seconds.<\/p>\n If the way your QR code looks is important to you, but you don’t want to pay extra for a custom design, try QR Code Monkey. Once you add your URL, you can change the color, add a logo, and further customize the pixels in your code at no cost.<\/p>\n With QR Code Monkey, I feel like my design possibilities are endless. All that\u2019s needed is a bit of creativity and a bit of patience, and I can produce a branded QR code that truly stands out.<\/p>\n QR Code Generator Hub is a widely used dynamic QR Code platform that offers many free features along with a full suite of tools for all your QR Code marketing needs.<\/p>\n QR Code Generator Hub<\/a> is the one of the only dynamic QR code tools I\u2019ve found that\u2019s both free and unlimited. I can create as many codes as I want, with as many scans and edits as I need, without paying a cent. And if I decide I want more advanced features like tracking and analytics, the paid option is a flat rate \u2014 no matter how much I use it.<\/p>\n <\/a> <\/p>\n One significant pitfall to making a QR code is that you can’t edit the data it contains once you print it. But by signing up for an account, you can edit this data. This is especially important if you expect to use a lot of QR codes in your marketing strategy.<\/p>\n With a free membership to QR code generators like qr-code-generator.com, you can print a dynamic QR code, scan it, and pull up an editable form where you can modify the data your visitors will receive when they scan the QR code themselves. You can also track performance analytics, which we’ll cover below, and create a new customized version of your code.<\/p>\n QR codes can be boring to look at, but not if you customize them as much as possible. If you sign up for an account on a QR code generator website, you can customize your QR code further \u2014 adjusting the colors, adding a logo, creating social options, and more.<\/p>\n Keep in mind, however, that some customizations can make it more difficult for QR code scanning apps and smartphone cameras to properly read the code. To cover your bases, it’s a good idea to generate two versions of your QR code \u2014 one plain version and another with your preferred design.<\/p>\n Speaking of this …<\/p>\n Don’t forget to check to see if the QR code reads correctly, and be sure to try more than one QR code reader. A good place to start is the free tool Google Lens<\/a>, which takes a picture and then tells you what link or item it \u201creads to.\u201d<\/p>\n Another great free tool is the app QR Code Reader<\/a>, which automatically takes you to whatever it \u201creads.\u201d Most smartphones these days include a built-in QR code reader, so you should test to make sure your code is readable there, as well.<\/p>\n Just like any marketing campaign, you should follow up on any collateral or campaigns using QR codes to see whether they’re actually working. How much traffic comes from each specific code? Are people scanning your code but not redeeming their offer once they get to the landing page? Or are they not even compelled enough to scan your QR code in the first place?<\/p>\n Knowing the answers to these questions will help you troubleshoot and adjust poorly performing QR codes to more closely mirror those that work well.<\/p>\n I recommend you include a UTM tracking code on your URL<\/a> so you can better measure performance. This is particularly important if you use closed-loop marketing analytics<\/a> or if you perform more in-depth reporting on your campaigns.<\/p>\n
\n QR Codes vs. Barcodes<\/a>
\n How do QR codes work?<\/a>
\n How to Make a QR Code<\/a>
\n How to Create a QR Code on Any Device<\/a>
\n How to Create a QR Code on Android, iOS, and Desktop<\/a>
\n How to Use QR Codes (And How Not to)<\/a>
\n How Not to Use a QR Code<\/a>
\n Best QR Code Generators<\/a>
\n QR Code Best Practices<\/a> <\/p>\nWhat is a QR code?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
QR Codes vs. Barcodes<\/h2>\n
QR Codes Are Shaped Differently<\/strong><\/h4>\n
QR Codes Hold Different Data<\/strong><\/h4>\n
QR Codes Hold More Data<\/strong><\/h4>\n
How do QR codes work?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
How to Create a QR Code on Any Device<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Step 1: Access a QR code generator on any browser.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
Step 2: Insert your URL into the generator.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
Step 3: If applicable, customize your QR code.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
Step 4: Download your QR code.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
Step 5: Use QR code for marketing and promotion.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How to Create a QR Code on Android<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n Then, I head to the specific URL I want to share.
\n Once on that page, I tap the three vertical dots (\u22ee) at the top. <\/p>\n
\n Then, I slide through the options at the top of the new menu until I see the QR code. <\/p>\nHow to Create a QR Code on iOS<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n Next, I navigate to the specific URL I want to share.
\n I tap the Share<\/strong> button in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. <\/p>\nHow to Create a QR Code for Desktop Using Chrome<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n I go to the URL I want to share.
\n If I\u2019m using a Linux, Windows, or Mac machine, I head to the right-hand side of the address bar and click the three dots. <\/p>\nHow to Create a QR Code on Microsoft Edge<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n I navigate to the URL I want to share.
\n I right-click anywhere on the page.
\n From the drop-down menu, I select Create QR code for this page<\/strong>. <\/p>\nHow to Use QR Codes (and How Not to)<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Display your QR code where it’s convenient for people to scan.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Optimize the QR’s destination page for mobile devices.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Include a CTA that prompts people to scan your QR code.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Don’t limit your QR code to one mobile scanner.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Use your QR code to make someone’s life easier.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How Not to Use a QR Code<\/strong><\/h2>\n
1. Kaywa<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
2. GOQR.me<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
3. Free QR Code Generator by Shopify<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
4. Visualead<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
5. The-qrcode-generator.com<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
6. QR Stuff<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
7. Qr-code-generator.com<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
8. QR Code Monkey<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
9. QR Code Generator Hub<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/h3>\n\nWhy I Like It<\/strong><\/h4>\n
QR Code Best Practices<\/strong><\/h2>\n
1. Sign up for an account on a QR code generator website.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
2. Customize your QR code.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n
3. Test the QR code to make sure it scans.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
4. Track and analyze performance.<\/strong><\/h3>\n