QR Code Size Guide
The right QR code size depends on scanning distance and the amount of data encoded. Here's how to get it right every time.
The 10:1 Rule
A simple rule of thumb: the scanning distance should be no more than 10× the QR code size. A 3cm QR code works up to ~30cm away. A 30cm QR code works up to ~3 meters.
Recommended Sizes by Use Case
| Use Case | Min Size | Scan Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Business card | 2cm × 2cm | 10–20cm |
| Flyer / brochure | 3cm × 3cm | 15–30cm |
| Product packaging | 2.5cm × 2.5cm | 10–25cm |
| Table tent / menu card | 4cm × 4cm | 20–40cm |
| A4 poster | 5cm × 5cm | 30–50cm |
| Large poster (A1/A0) | 10cm × 10cm | Up to 1m |
| Banner / signage | 20cm × 20cm | Up to 2m |
| Billboard | 50cm+ × 50cm+ | 3–5m |
| Digital screen | 200px × 200px | Phone arm length |
Factors That Affect Scannability
- Data density — More data = more modules = needs to be larger. A simple URL is fine at 2cm; a full vCard needs 3cm+
- Error correction level — Higher correction (H) adds more modules. Use H only when you need a logo overlay
- Contrast — Low contrast requires a larger size to compensate
- Print quality — Inkjet bleeding can blur small codes. Laser print or professional offset is safer
- Quiet zone — Always leave a white border around the QR code (minimum 4 modules wide)
SVG vs PNG
For print, always use SVG — it scales to any size without pixelation. Our generator provides both formats. Use PNG for digital/screen use where a specific pixel size is fine.