Best Practices for QR Codes

Good QR codes are easy to scan, clearly labelled, correctly sized and linked to fast mobile-friendly pages.

Use a clear call to action

A QR code should tell people what they will get. “Scan to view the menu” is better than a code with no explanation.

Keep enough contrast

Dark codes on light backgrounds are the most reliable. Avoid low contrast colour combinations, busy patterns or heavy visual effects that make scanning harder.

Respect the quiet zone

The blank margin around a QR code helps scanners detect it. Do not crowd the code with text, borders, images or other design elements.

Send users to a mobile-friendly page

Most QR scans happen on phones. The destination page should load quickly, fit a small screen and make the next action obvious.

Test in real conditions

Test the printed size, distance, lighting and surface. A code that scans from a desktop monitor may fail when printed small on glossy material.