Testing a QR Code Before You Print It: A Checklist
A short checklist for testing a QR code on screen and on paper so you catch problems before printing hundreds of copies.
A wrong QR code on a thousand flyers is an expensive mistake. Testing takes a few minutes.
Step 1: check the content
- Scan the code and read the result carefully.
- Open the link and make sure the page loads.
- Check spelling and any numbers, such as phone numbers.
- Check the page on a phone, since many pages look different on mobile.
Step 2: test on more than one phone
Scan with at least two different phones, and if possible include an older one. Different cameras behave differently.
Step 3: test a printed sample
Screens are backlit and sharp. Paper is not. Print one copy at the real size and scan it.
- In bright light
- In dim light
- From the real distance people will use
- At a slight angle
Step 4: test the surface
If the code will go on a curved bottle, a glossy sign or a window, test it on that surface, not on flat paper.
Step 5: check the surroundings
- Is the quiet zone clear?
- Is there a short line of text saying what the code does?
- Is the code at a comfortable height?
Step 6: check the destination later
If the code points to a web page, that page needs to keep working. Set a reminder to check the link now and then.
A quick checklist
- Content correct
- Two or more phones tested
- Printed sample scanned
- Surface tested
- Border and label in place
QR Code Scanner keeps a scan history, which makes it easy to compare what each test scan returned.
Scan and create QR codes and barcodes with QR Code Scanner →
QR Code Scanner
Fast QR & barcode scanner with a built-in QR code generator
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