Why a QR Code Won't Scan and What to Do
Key points
- Small, blurry or no margin are common causes
- Reduce text, use a darker color and remake it
- Test the printed copy
If a QR code you made won't scan on a phone, check the following in order.
Causes and fixes
- Too small. Enlarge it to at least 2 cm square.
- Blurry. Stretching or heavy compression blurs the edges of the pattern. Use a larger PNG (2000px) or SVG.
- No margin around it. Check that you did not trim the margin or overlay pictures or text.
- Color too light. Check that the background is white and the pattern is dark.
- Too much text. It makes the pattern dense. Use a shorter URL or cut unneeded text.
- Poor scanning conditions. Dark, glare on the screen, or an angled shot. Try from the front in a bright place.
- You edited the image. Changing colors or drawing over the pattern is risky; avoid editing it.
When remaking it
Try remaking it with Create a QR Code like this:
- Set the color to "Black"
- Set error correction to "Normal (M)" or "High (Q)"
- Set the image size to "Large (2000px)"
It may be the scanning app
Apps differ in how well they scan. If the standard camera cannot read it, try another QR app.
Test the printed copy
It may scan on screen but fail on paper. Always test the printed copy.
Use "Create a QR Code (URL, Wi-Fi)" (free)Tools that go well with this
- Compress & Resize Images: Make image files smaller, and resize them if you like.
- Convert Image Format (JPG, PNG, WebP): Convert images to JPG, PNG or WebP, several at once.
- Photos to PDF: Combine several photos into one PDF in the order you choose. You can rotate, reorder and set a size limit.
More guides for this tool
- How to Make a QR Code for Free (URL, Works on a Phone)
- Making a Wi-Fi QR Code So Guests Can Connect Without Typing
- Tips on Size, Margin and Color When Printing a QR Code
- How to Put a QR Code on a Flyer, Business Card or Poster
- Using QR Codes Safely: Fake Codes and Cautions for Creators
- PNG, SVG or PDF: Which Format Should You Save a QR Code In?