The most common reason a printed QR code fails is size. A code that looks perfect on screen can become unreadable when shrunk to fit a corner of a flyer. Here is how to size it right the first time.
The 10:1 rule
As a rule of thumb, a QR code scans reliably from about ten times its width. A 3 cm code works from about 30 cm. A 20 cm code works from about 2 m. Work out how far away people will scan from, divide by ten, and round up.
Recommended sizes by use case
| Where | Typical scan distance | Suggested code width |
|---|---|---|
| Business card | 10 cm | 1.5–2 cm |
| Product packaging | 20 cm | 2–2.5 cm |
| Flyer, menu, brochure | 30 cm | 3 cm |
| Table tent | 40 cm | 4–5 cm |
| Shop window | 1–1.5 m | 12–15 cm |
| Poster on a wall | 2 m | 20 cm or more |
| Billboard or roadside | 5 m + | 50 cm and up |
These are starting points. Round up for movement, low light, glare or dense codes.
Density matters
A code with a long link has more, smaller squares (modules). Two codes of the same printed width are not equally easy to scan if one holds ten times more data. Keep links short, or print bigger. See our best practices for ways to shorten content.
Leave the quiet zone
Every QR code needs a blank margin — at least four modules wide — so scanners can find the edges. Do not crop right up to the pattern or place text and borders against it.
Use vectors for large print
For anything bigger than a flyer, export an SVG so edges stay sharp at any size.
Always test the printed result
Print a sample at the real size, on the real material, and scan it with two phones from the real distance. Then print the batch.
Not sure what size to pick? Use our QR code size calculator to get a recommendation for your exact distance and code density.
Frequently asked questions
What is the smallest QR code that still scans?
About 2 cm (0.8 in) is a safe minimum for close scanning of a normal link. Smaller codes need very short content and good print quality.
Does a logo in the middle change the size I need?
A logo hides part of the code, so it needs a bit more room and a higher error-correction level. Print slightly larger than you would without it.
Can a QR code be too big?
Not for scanning, but a very large code on a small screen or page can be cropped. Keep the entire code and its quiet zone in view.