QRtime • Guides
QRtime Tips for Better, Scannable QR Codes
Quick, practical advice for generating clean, reliable QR codes with QRtime | plus a few fun facts.
Quick Start
- Choose the type: URL, Text, Wi-Fi, Email/SMS, Phone, or Event.
- Enter your data: keep links short and accurate (avoid trailing spaces).
- Pick size & ECC: start with 256 px and M for most uses.
- Generate & test: scan with 2–3 phones before sharing.
- Download: PNG for screens, SVG for crisp print.
Pro Use a link shortener if your URL is very long; simpler codes scan more reliably.
Safety Always verify the final URL after scanning, especially before printing many copies.
Brand If you add a logo, keep a proper quiet zone and choose high ECC.
Best Practices for Scannability
Contrast
Use a dark foreground on a light background. Avoid low-contrast colors and busy textures.
Quiet Zone
Leave a clean margin around the code; don’t crop tight or place graphics on the edges.
Size & Distance
For print, aim for at least 2–3 cm on flyers/cards. Scale up with viewing distance.
File Format
Use SVG for print (pin-sharp at any size). Use PNG for web/presentations.
Color & Styling
Stylized codes are fine, but keep contrast high and avoid inverted schemes that some scanners fail on.
Test & Verify
Scan under normal lighting from different angles. Try both iOS and Android devices.
Error Correction (ECC)
ECC lets a QR code remain readable if part of it is damaged or covered. Higher ECC increases robustness but also density (smaller squares):
- L : light protection; smallest code.
- M : balanced (good default).
- Q : extra safety.
- H : highest safety; best if adding a small logo.
Fun Facts
- “QR” stands for Quick Response.
- QR codes can store text, phone numbers, Wi-Fi details, calendar events, and more! Not just links.
- Thanks to error correction, codes often scan even if a small area is damaged.
- Vector (SVG) codes look crisp at any size: perfect for posters, packaging, or shirts.
🚀 Ready to create yours?
Open QRtime, generate your code, and share it in print or online.
Open QRtime❓ QRtime Tips | FAQ
What size should a printed QR code be?
As a rule of thumb, use at least 2–3 cm on flyers/cards and scale up with viewing distance. Posters usually need 512 px (or SVG) or larger.
PNG or SVG — which should I use?
Use SVG for print (it’s vector and stays sharp at any size). Use PNG for websites, slides, and screen use.
Which ECC level is best for me?
M works for most cases. Use H for print, rough surfaces, or when placing a small center logo. Higher ECC increases robustness but also density.
How much quiet zone do I need?
Leave a clear margin (quiet zone) around the code at least 4 light modules. Don’t crop tight or place graphics on the edges.
Does QRtime upload my content?
No. Codes are generated locally in your browser; nothing is sent to a server.