QR Code Size for Banners & Trade Shows
Trade show attendees won't walk up to your banner to scan. Here's how to size QR codes for real-world scanning distances at events, expos, and conferences.
Quick Answer
QR code size by scanning distance:
- • 5 feet away: 6 inches (15 cm) minimum
- • 10 feet away: 12 inches (30 cm) minimum
- • 15 feet away: 18 inches (45 cm) minimum
- • 20 feet away: 24 inches (60 cm) minimum
The Trade Show QR Code Formula
For indoor events with good lighting, use this rule:
QR Code Size = Scanning Distance ÷ 10
If attendees will scan from 10 feet away, your QR code needs to be at least 12 inches. When in doubt, go bigger — there's no penalty for oversizing.
Recommended Sizes by Display Type
Retractable Banner (33" x 80")
8" - 10" (20-25 cm). Place in lower third for easy scanning height.
Table Top Display
4" - 6" (10-15 cm). Close range scanning from people at your booth.
Pop-Up Backdrop (8' - 10' wide)
12" - 18" (30-45 cm). Visible from across the aisle.
Hanging Banner / Overhead
24"+ (60+ cm). High placement = longer scanning distance.
Trade Show QR Code Placement
- • Eye level or below: People scan with phones at chest height, not overhead
- • Clear sightline: Don't hide behind tables, chairs, or product displays
- • Avoid corners: Banner curves distort the QR pattern
- • Add context: "Scan for Free Demo" beats a naked QR code
- • Test at venue: Lighting varies — test before the show opens
Common Trade Show QR Mistakes
- • Putting a 3" QR code on a 10-foot banner (unscannable from distance)
- • Placing QR codes too high on retractable banners
- • Using colored QR codes that blend into the design
- • Linking to non-mobile-friendly landing pages
- • No call-to-action explaining why someone should scan
Create Trade Show QR Codes
Generate high-resolution QR codes with tracking. Know exactly how many booth visitors scanned.
Generate QR Code