Contrast matters more than color
Scanners read the difference in brightness between modules (the small squares) and the background, not the colors themselves. Dark modules on a light background work reliably. Light-on-dark, or two similarly bright colors, can fail even though it looks fine to the eye.
Leave a quiet zone
QR codes need a plain border, a "quiet zone", around them for scanners to lock on. Cropping a code tight against other design elements or the edge of the page is a common cause of scan failures.
Size for the scanning distance
A code on a business card only needs to work at arm's length. A code on a poster meant to be scanned from a few meters away needs to be proportionally larger. As a rough guide, the further the expected scanning distance, the bigger the printed code needs to be, test it at the actual size and distance before printing a large run.
Adding a logo without breaking the code
QR codes have built-in error correction, meaning they still scan even with part of the pattern covered or damaged. A small logo in the center generally works at higher error-correction levels, but it reduces the margin for other damage, print quality and testing the final result matter more once a logo is added.
Design QR codes built for print
FlexiQR exports high-resolution QR codes with the contrast and styling controls print work needs.
Scan with your iPhone to install FlexiQR
View on the App StoreFrequently asked questions
What's the minimum size for a printed QR code?
It depends on scanning distance and printer resolution rather than one fixed number. Test the exact printed size with a few different phones before committing to a print run.
Can I use my brand colors in a QR code?
Yes, as long as there's enough brightness contrast between the modules and the background. Test any custom color combination before printing at scale.
Should I test a QR code before printing a large batch?
Yes, always test the final design at actual size, on the actual paper stock if possible, with more than one phone.