QR Code Size: What Dimensions Are Considered Correct and Why It Matters

The correct QR code size directly impacts the effectiveness of any advertising or informational campaign. Even the most useful and well-thought-out content will not deliver results if the QR code is hard to notice or impossible to scan. A properly chosen size ensures good readability, fast scanning, and, as a result, a higher level of audience engagement.

It is important to understand that there is no universal QR code size. It always depends on the advertising medium, placement conditions, and the distance from which users will scan the code. One of the most common mistakes is using a QR code that is too small without considering the environment in which it will be used, which significantly reduces the effectiveness of a digital business card.

Minimum and Maximum QR Code Size

The minimum QR code size for comfortable scanning at a short distance should be at least 1.2 inches (3–4 cm). This is considered a safe and practical size for most use cases.

For business cards, the recommended minimum QR code size is 0.8 × 0.8 inches. Printing the code smaller than this is not advised, as smartphones may struggle to correctly recognize its elements.

When it comes to billboards, the QR code size must be significantly larger. For example, if a QR code is placed at a distance of around 20 meters, its diameter should be approximately 2 meters to remain readable.

There is no maximum QR code size — QR codes can be scaled to very large dimensions as long as image sharpness and contrast are preserved.

How Scanning Distance Affects QR Code Size

QR code size is directly related to the distance from which it will be scanned. The farther the user is from the code, the larger it needs to be.

When planning a campaign, it is important to consider:

• the type of medium (business card, packaging, poster, billboard);

• the expected scanning distance;

• lighting and visibility conditions.

For example, using the minimum QR code size on a billboard is unacceptable — it simply will not work.

Why Correct QR Code Size Matters

QR codes are commonly used on packaging, posters, catalogs, magazines, and outdoor advertising. They add a digital layer to products or objects and act as a bridge between offline and online environments.

If a QR code is too small or difficult to read, users will simply ignore it. As a result, a business loses potential customers, clicks, and conversions. QR code size plays a crucial role in this process.

QR Code Color

Never invert QR code colors. The pattern should always be darker than the background. Light, pastel, and yellow shades are strongly discouraged, as they are poorly recognized by smartphone cameras.

Static and Dynamic QR Codes

There are two main types of QR codes:

• Static QR codes — all information is encoded directly into the image. With a large amount of data, the code becomes dense and difficult to scan.

• Dynamic QR codes — contain a link to online content. These codes are easier to scan, can be edited after printing, and allow scan statistics to be tracked.

For marketing campaigns, dynamic QR codes are considered a more effective and versatile solution.

QR Code Size for Different Scanning Distances

• Short distance — from 1.2 inches (3–4 cm).

• Business cards — at least 0.8 × 0.8 inches.

• Long distance — size increases proportionally to distance; at 20 meters, approximately 2 meters in diameter.

The larger the QR code, the higher the chance it will be noticed and scanned.

6 Tips for Successful QR Code Use

1. Add a clear call to action (for example, “Scan to learn more”).

2. Use dynamic QR codes for better readability and flexibility.

3. Customize the QR code design to match your brand without sacrificing contrast.

4. Make the QR code a visual focal point rather than a secondary element.

5. Print QR codes in high quality.

When creating a QR code, it is important to consider not only design, but also size, scanning distance, contrast, and code type. A properly selected size is one of the key factors that determines scanning success and overall campaign effectiveness.