QR Code Best Practices
Create scannable, effective QR codes every time
QR Code Best Practices
by TrimLink.co - Your Privacy-First QR Code Generator
Size & Placement Rules
Minimum Size
At least 2cm x 2cm (0.8in) for print materials
Tip: Test scan from 30cm away before finalizing
Viewing Distance Formula
Size = Distance / 10 (e.g., 3m viewing = 30cm QR code)
Tip: Billboards need larger codes than business cards
Quiet Zone
Keep 4x module white space around the code
Tip: Never let design elements touch the QR border
Design & Scannability
Contrast Ratio
Minimum 4:1 contrast between foreground and background
Tip: Dark on light works best - avoid light-on-dark
Error Correction
Use Level M (15%) for standard, Level H (30%) for logos
Tip: Higher correction = more scannable but larger code
Logo Placement
Center logo, max 30% of QR area with Level H correction
Tip: Always test after adding logos or colors
Dynamic vs Static QR Codes
Dynamic QR Codes
- • Editable destination URL after printing
- • Track scans, location, and device data
- • Best for: campaigns, menus, business cards
Static QR Codes
- • Fixed URL, cannot be changed
- • No tracking capabilities
- • Best for: permanent signage, product packaging
QR Code Use Cases
| Context | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Business Cards | 2-3cm, Level M, link to contact page |
| Product Packaging | 3-4cm, Level H, link to manual/support |
| Posters/Flyers | 4-6cm, Level M, with clear CTA |
| Billboards | 30cm+, Level L, simple URL |
| Restaurant Menus | 3cm, Level M, dynamic for updates |
| Event Tickets | 2cm, Level H, unique per ticket |
Call-to-Action Tips
- Add text like "Scan for 20% off" near the QR code
- Use action verbs: "Scan to Order", "Scan for Details"
- Include a phone icon or camera symbol as visual cue
- Tell users what they'll get before scanning
- Position CTA above or below the code, never inside
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too small for scanning distance
Fix: Use size = distance/10 formula
Low contrast colors
Fix: Stick to dark code on light background
No quiet zone margin
Fix: Keep 4x module white space around code
Linking to non-mobile pages
Fix: Always link to mobile-optimized URLs
No tracking on campaigns
Fix: Use dynamic QR codes with UTM parameters
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