How to create a QR code that never expires

QR codes are everywhere from menus to business cards, yet many people find that a code made with a free service stops working a few months later.

Static and dynamic QR codes

In a static QR code the content, such as your web address, is written straight into the code, so it works forever. A dynamic code contains the service's own short address, which redirects to yours. If the service closes, starts charging or deletes your account, every printed code stops working. For content you will not change, choose a static code.

Error correction level

QR codes carry extra data so they remain readable when partly dirty or torn. Level L survives about 7% damage, M 15%, Q 25% and H 30%. Higher levels make the code denser. M is fine for most print; choose H if you put a logo in the middle.

Printing and testing

Print the code at least 2 × 2 cm with a white margin. A light code on a dark background fails on many phones. Test with several phone brands before printing. Keep the address short where you can; long addresses produce denser codes that are hard to read in small print.

Wi-Fi QR codes

You can put Wi-Fi details into a QR code so guests join without typing the password. Remember that anyone who scans it can see the password, so use a separate guest network.

Our QR code generator creates static codes in your browser; the content is not sent to our server and you can download the code as SVG or PNG.