Size for the scan distance
How big should a QR code be?
Enter how far away people will stand and we give you the smallest width that scans reliably.
Minimum sizeEnter a distance to see the smallest width.
Scans from aboutEnter a width to see how far away it scans.
The result is a minimum. Dense content, a logo, low contrast or a glossy surface all call for a larger code.
Made on your device. Nothing is uploaded.
The ten-to-one rule
A good rule of thumb is that a code scans from about ten times its printed width. A 3 cm code works from around 30 cm, and a poster scanned from 2 m wants roughly 20 cm. Denser codes with longer content or a logo need a little more, and so does low contrast or a glossy surface. Treat the result as a minimum and test a real print before you commit to a run.
Questions
Is there a smallest size that always works?
Around 2 cm is a sensible floor for simple codes at close range. Below that, small modules start to blur on many phones.
Does the quiet margin count toward the size?
Measure the dark pattern only, then leave a blank margin of about four modules around it.
Why did my code get harder to scan on a curved surface?
Curves distort the pattern. Print larger, keep the code on the flattest part and avoid wrapping it around a corner.