QR codes went from niche to ubiquitous in just a few years. The pandemic accelerated their adoption, but they have stayed because they are genuinely useful - faster than typing a URL, works offline, and works on any smartphone.

For businesses, QR codes are now a marketing tool. A well-designed QR code with your logo and brand colors is not just functional - it is a branding element. Here is how to create one.

📑 What you'll learn

Static vs dynamic QR codes

Before you start, you need to understand the difference between the two types of QR codes:

Static QR codes (recommended for most use)

  • The data is embedded directly in the code.
  • Never expire.
  • No server needed. No subscription.
  • Cannot track scans.

Dynamic QR codes

  • Scan the code, it redirects to your URL via the provider's server.
  • You can change the destination after printing.
  • You can track scans.
  • Expire if you stop paying.
  • Can become dead links if the provider goes out of business.
💡 Which should you choose?

For most business uses, static QR codes are safer - they never expire. Use dynamic QR codes only if you need to change the destination often or track scans extensively.

10 business use cases for QR codes

  1. Restaurant menus - Customers scan to view the menu on their phone.
  2. Business cards - Share your vCard with one scan.
  3. WiFi access - Guests connect without typing the password.
  4. Product packaging - Link to instructions, reviews, or warranty registration.
  5. Shop windows - Link to your online store or promotions.
  6. Event tickets - Each ticket has a unique QR for check-in.
  7. Payment requests - Link to your payment processor.
  8. Email signatures - Easy way to share your contact info.
  9. Print ads - Bridge print and digital.
  10. Real estate signs - Link to the property listing.

How to create a QR code (step by step)

Using our free QR code generator, you can create a custom QR code in under a minute:

  1. Open the generator - Go to ImageKit Pro's QR Generator.
  2. Choose the type - URL, text, email, phone, SMS, WiFi, or vCard.
  3. Enter your data - For a URL QR, paste your website address.
  4. Customize the design - Change colors, add your logo.
  5. Pick your size - 400px is good for web, 1000px for print.
  6. Set error correction - Always use "High (30%)" if adding a logo.
  7. Download - Save as PNG (digital) or SVG (print).

📱 Try the Free QR Code Generator

Create custom QR codes with logo and colors. No signup, no expiration.

Generate QR Code →

Design tips: logo and colors

Adding a logo

A logo makes your QR code stand out and reinforces your brand. There is one rule: the logo should cover no more than 25-30% of the code. Beyond that, the QR code becomes hard to scan.

Our generator automatically adds white padding around the logo, which helps scanners recognize the code. Always use High error correction when adding a logo.

Choosing colors

The foreground (modules) must contrast strongly with the background. Common choices:

  • Black on white - Always works. Maximum scan reliability.
  • Brand color on white - Great for branding. Use a dark brand color.
  • White on brand color - Works if the brand color is very dark.
  • Any color combination with high contrast - Test before printing.
⚠️ Colors to avoid

Avoid low-contrast combinations like yellow on white, or light blue on light green. Also avoid using the same color family for both foreground and background. Always test your QR code with a real phone before printing.

Print vs digital: which format?

Use Case Best Format Recommended Size
Website / email PNG 400 × 400 px
Social media PNG 600 × 600 px
Business cards SVG or PNG 1000 × 1000 px
Posters / signs SVG (vector) Scalable
Product packaging SVG (vector) Scalable

Frequently asked questions

Do QR codes expire?

Static QR codes - the ones most generators create for free - never expire. The data is embedded directly in the code. Dynamic QR codes can expire if the subscription ends.

Can I add my logo to a QR code?

Yes, but the logo should cover no more than 25-30% of the code. Always use High error correction (H, 30%) so the code remains scannable. Our QR generator places a small logo in the center automatically with white padding.

What size should a QR code be for print?

The minimum size depends on the scanning distance. Rule of thumb: 1 cm of QR code for every 10 cm of scanning distance. For a poster meant to be scanned from 2 meters away, the QR code should be at least 20 cm wide.

What is the best format for QR code printing?

Use SVG for print (vector, scales infinitely without quality loss). Use PNG for digital (websites, social media, email signatures). Our generator supports both formats.

Can I track how many people scan my QR code?

Not with static QR codes. If you need tracking, you must use a dynamic QR code service (which routes scans through a redirect server). This usually requires a paid subscription.

Final thoughts

QR codes are a simple but powerful marketing tool. A well-designed QR code with your brand colors and logo is not just functional - it is a mobile entry point to your business.

Try our free QR generator - no signup, no expiration, works offline. And if you need to optimize the images you plan to use with the QR code, check out our Image Compressor.