Minimum QR Code Size: Make Sure Your Codes Always Scan
Too-small QR codes are the #1 reason campaigns fail. Use this guide and free calculator to choose the right size for business cards, flyers, posters, packaging, and screens so every scan works the first time.
Estimate Minimum Size
Enter how far away people will stand when scanning your QR code. We will suggest a safe minimum size for print.
Example: people scan a poster from 6–8 feet away in a hallway.
This is a conservative estimate based on common print-quality guidelines. Always print a sample and test with multiple phones before launching a campaign.
Create a QR Code at the Right Size
Once you know your ideal size, generate a dynamic QR code that you can update without reprinting. Perfect for campaigns, menus, packaging, and more.
Open QR Code GeneratorTip: Export at high resolution (300 DPI for print) and keep plenty of white space around the QR code.
Quick Minimum QR Code Size Rules
You do not need a PhD in print design to size QR codes. Use these simple rules and you will avoid 99% of scan problems.
Business Cards & Packaging
Minimum: around 0.8–1 in (2–2.5 cm) square with clear white margin.
Works best when people hold the card in their hand and scan from 6–12 inches away.
Flyers & Posters
Minimum: 1.2–2 in (3–5 cm), larger for busy designs or low lighting.
Assume people are 2–6 feet away in hallways, trade shows, or shops.
Outdoor Signs & Billboards
Minimum: 8–12 in (20–30 cm) and sometimes much larger.
Only use QR codes outdoors when people have time to stop and scan safely.
How QR Code Size Is Calculated
QR codes are made of tiny squares called modules. The more data you store, the more modules you get—and the larger the code must be to stay readable.
The Distance Rule
A common guideline: the QR code’s width should be at least one tenth of the typical scan distance. If people stand 6 feet away, aim for a code at least 0.6 feet (about 7 in) wide.
Print Resolution (DPI)
For print, export at 300 DPI or higher. Low-resolution images make modules blurry, which can break scanning even if the QR looks big enough.
Contrast & Quiet Zone
Always use dark code on light background and leave a white border ("quiet zone") around the QR. Crowded designs often fail even at larger sizes.
Recommended QR Code Sizes by Use Case
Business Card
Minimum 0.8 in (2 cm)
Keep away from edges and avoid glossy finishes that reflect light.
Postcards & Handouts
Minimum 1 in (2.5 cm)
Great for events, trade shows, and conference swag.
Indoor Posters
Minimum 1.5–2 in (4–5 cm)
Size up if lighting is poor or walls are textured.
Store Windows
Minimum 3–4 in (8–10 cm)
Assume people scan from outside at 4–10 feet away.
Product Packaging
Minimum 0.8–1 in (2–2.5 cm)
Use flat areas, avoid tight curves and seams.
Screens & Slides
Minimum 10–15% of slide height
Give people at least 10–15 seconds on the slide to scan.
Common QR Code Size Mistakes
- • Printing tiny QR codes on busy backgrounds.
- • Removing the white margin to “save space.”
- • Using very light or low-contrast colors.
- • Exporting low-resolution PNGs and scaling them up.
- • Expecting people to scan from moving cars.
- • Placing codes near corners, folds, or curves.
- • Using dense QR codes for long URLs instead of short links.
- • Not testing with multiple phone models before launch.
Minimum QR Code Size FAQs
What is the absolute smallest QR code size?
For most modern smartphones, going below about 0.8 in (2 cm) on print becomes risky. If you must go smaller, keep the design extremely clean and test thoroughly before printing thousands of copies.
How far away can a QR code be scanned?
It depends on the phone camera, lighting, and size. A simple guideline is that the scan distance should not be more than 10 times the QR code’s width. Larger codes and higher contrast allow longer distances.
Does adding a logo change the minimum size?
Yes. Logos cover some of the modules, so the QR code must be bigger or use a higher error-correction level. Keep logos small and centered and increase the overall QR size to stay safe.
How big should a QR code be on a presentation slide?
Aim for at least 10–15% of the slide height and leave it on screen long enough for everyone in the room to scan. Test from the back of the room before presenting.
Can dynamic QR codes be smaller than static ones?
Dynamic QRs usually store shorter URLs, which means fewer modules and cleaner patterns. That helps them scan more reliably at smaller sizes, but you should still follow the same safety rules.
Size It Right, Then Track Every Scan
Generate dynamic QR codes, see scan analytics, and edit destinations anytime without reprinting.
Use Dynamic QR Code GeneratorHelpful Guides on QR Code Printing & Tracking
Static vs Dynamic QR Codes: Which Should You Print?
Understand when to choose static codes versus editable dynamic codes for campaigns.
QR Codes in Print Advertising: Best Practices
Design, placement, and sizing tips for magazines, mailers, and posters.
QR Code Analytics: Track Scans Like Clicks
See how many people scan, where they are, and which campaigns perform best.
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