The simple rule
A QR code should be about one tenth of the scanning distance. If people scan from 30 cm away, print it at least 3 cm wide. From 1 metre, about 10 cm. From 3 metres, about 30 cm.
Recommended sizes
- Business cards: 2.5 to 3 cm
- Table cards and stickers: 3 to 4 cm
- Flyers and brochures: 4 to 6 cm
- Posters at eye level: 8 to 12 cm
- Shop windows and signs: 20 cm or more
- Billboards and banners: 1/10 of the viewing distance
Things that change the size you need
More data means more dots. A long link or a contact card with many details creates a denser code, which needs more space. Keep links short when you can. Logos cover part of the code, so add a little extra size. Low light and glossy surfaces make scanning harder, so go bigger and use matte finishes.
Leave a quiet zone
Every QR code needs an empty margin around it so the camera can find its edges. Rumooz adds this margin automatically. Do not let your designer place text or graphics right against the code.
Export at the right size
Use the print size slider in the generator. It exports PNG files at 300 DPI with the size saved inside, so print shops open them at exactly the centimetres you chose. For large signs, choose SVG, which stays sharp at any size.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum size for a QR code?
About 2 cm is the practical minimum for short links scanned up close. For most printed materials, 3 cm or more is safer.
Does a bigger QR code scan better?
Up to a point. Bigger codes can be scanned from further away, but very large codes viewed up close need people to step back. Size it for the distance.
What resolution should a printed QR code be?
300 DPI for PNG files. Rumooz exports at 300 DPI automatically, or use SVG for unlimited sharpness.
Why does my printed QR code not scan?
The usual causes are too small a size, low contrast, a missing margin, glossy reflections, or a curved surface. Test a printed sample before printing in bulk.