QR Code Generator
Create scannable QR codes for URLs, text, and anything else. Pick the size and error-correction level, then export as PNG or SVG — all offline in your browser.
Medium — good balance of size and durability.
Preview
About the QR Code Generator
A QR (Quick Response) code is a two-dimensional barcode that stores data as a grid of black and white modules. Modern phone cameras scan them instantly to open URLs, show text, join Wi-Fi networks, and more. This generator encodes your content using the ISO/IEC 18004 standard with selectable error-correction levels (L, M, Q, H) that let the code stay readable even when partially obscured.
Error correction explained
Reed-Solomon error correction adds redundant data so the code can be read even if part of it is damaged or covered. Higher levels (Q, H) tolerate more damage but produce denser codes for the same data. For printed posters or labels, choose H; for digital display where the code is always clean, L or M is fine.
Exporting
Download as PNG for raster use (social, screens) or SVG for infinitely scalable vector use (print, logos). The quiet zone — the white margin around the code — is set to the standard 4 modules by default and can be adjusted for tight layouts.
Privacy
Everything runs locally in your browser. Your text is never sent to a server — there isn't one. Nothing is tracked or stored.
· Maintained by the Forge Engineering Team
How This Calculator Works
This tool generates QR codes compliant with the ISO/IEC 18004 standard. QR codes use Reed-Solomon error correction at four levels: L (7% recovery), M (15%), Q (25%), and H (30%). Higher error correction allows the code to remain scannable even if partially damaged or overlaid with a logo. The tool supports encoding URLs, text, email, phone, SMS, and Wi-Fi credentials. All generation is performed entirely client-side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What error correction level should I use?
Level M (15% recovery) is the default and works for most cases. Use Level H (30%) if you plan to overlay a logo or if the code will be printed on surfaces that may get damaged. Higher error correction increases the QR code's density (more dots).
How much data can a QR code hold?
A Version 40 QR code (the largest, 177×177 modules) holds up to 7,089 numeric characters, 4,296 alphanumeric characters, or 2,953 bytes. However, denser codes are harder to scan — keep data concise and use URL shorteners for long links.
Are QR codes free to use?
Yes. The QR code standard (ISO/IEC 18004) is open and patent-free. However, some commercial 'dynamic QR code' services charge fees — these track analytics via redirect URLs. Static QR codes (like this tool generates) are completely free and never expire.
Sources & References
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