QR Code Generator
Create a QR code for a URL, plain text, email address or phone number, then preview and download it as a PNG.
Create your QR code
How this QR code generator works
A QR code stores text in a square pattern that phones and scanning apps can read. This tool formats your content, creates the preview in your browser and lets you download the result as a PNG image.
choose content type
format as URL, text, mailto or telephone link
generate QR matrix
render QR preview to canvas
download canvas as PNGShorter content usually produces cleaner QR codes. Very long text makes the pattern denser, which can be harder to scan from a distance or on small printed materials.
What can you put in a QR code?
| QR type | Use it for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| URL | Sending people to a web page, form, menu or landing page. | https://calculatorz.co.uk/ |
| Plain text | Short messages, codes, instructions or labels. | Scan this code for details. |
| Opening an email draft to a specific address. | mailto:name@example.com | |
| Phone | Opening a phone number on mobile devices. | tel:+441234567890 |
Tips for easier scanning
- Keep enough contrast: dark foreground on a light background is usually safest.
- Do not make it too small: printed QR codes need enough physical size for phone cameras to read.
- Test before publishing: scan the final code on more than one phone if it is going on flyers, packaging or signs.
- Keep the URL short: long links create denser codes. Use a clean final URL where possible.
- Leave white space around it: QR codes need a quiet zone around the square.
Important limitations
The generated image contains whatever text you enter. If the QR code points to a web page, the destination page must still be live and safe. If the link changes or the page is removed, the QR code may stop being useful.
Need colours for your QR code?
Use the Colour Picker to choose a foreground and background colour with better contrast.
QR code generator FAQs
Can I use a QR code for any URL?
Yes, but the URL should be complete, live and safe. In URL mode, the tool will remind you if the link does not start with http:// or https://.
Why is my QR code dense?
Long content creates more data to encode. Short URLs and short messages usually produce cleaner, easier-to-scan QR codes.
Can I change the QR code colours?
Yes. Choose foreground and background colours, but keep strong contrast. A very pale foreground or matching colours can make the code unreadable.
Does the QR code expire?
The image itself does not expire. But if it points to a URL, the destination page can change, move or disappear.