The quick answer
For something held in the hand, like a business card or label, a QR code should be at least 2 × 2 cm (about 0.8 inches). For anything scanned from further away, use the 10:1 rule: the code should be about one-tenth as wide as the scanning distance.
Recommended sizes
| Where it's printed | Typical distance | Minimum size |
|---|---|---|
| Business card, label, packaging | 15–20 cm | 2–2.5 cm |
| Flyer, menu, table tent | 20–30 cm | 3–4 cm |
| A4 poster, shop window | 0.5–1 m | 5–10 cm |
| Standee, sign board | 2–3 m | 20–30 cm |
| Hoarding, billboard | 10 m+ | 1 m+ |
These are minimums for good conditions. Go bigger for poor lighting, glossy surfaces, or audiences with older phones.
Content changes the size you need
The more data a QR code holds, the more tiny squares (“modules”) it has, and the smaller each one gets at the same print size. A short link might produce a 25 × 25 grid, while a long vCard can need 60 × 60 or more. If your code has to be small, keep the content short — use short links and only the contact fields you need.
Error correction
QR codes include backup data so they still scan if part is damaged or covered: Low recovers about 7%, Medium 15%, High 25% and Max 30%. Higher levels make the code denser, so use Low or Medium for small plain codes, and High or Max when you add a logo or print on rough surfaces.
Don't forget the quiet zone
Scanners need a blank margin around the code to find it. The QR standard calls for a quiet zone four modules wide. Don't let text, borders or images touch the code.
Resolution and file format
- Print: use a large PNG (1000 px or more) or, better, an SVG, which stays sharp at any size.
- Never upscale a small PNG — blurry edges cause scan failures.
- Screens and presentations: 300–500 px is plenty.
Always test before printing
Print one copy at the final size, put it where it will actually be used, and scan it with a couple of different phones — including an older one — from the expected distance. It takes two minutes and can save an entire print run.