The Quiet Zone and Other Printing Rules for QR Codes

Many QR codes fail not because they are wrong, but because of how they were printed. A few simple rules prevent most problems.

The quiet zone

The empty border around a QR code is called the quiet zone. The standard recommends at least four modules of empty space on every side. It lets the scanner find the edge of the code.

• Do not place text or images inside the border.
• Do not let the code touch the edge of a page or a coloured band.

Contrast

Dark modules on a light background scan best. Aim for strong contrast.

• Avoid light modules on a dark background unless you have tested it.
• Avoid low-contrast colour pairs, such as yellow on white.

Keep the shape

• Do not stretch the code. Modules must stay square.
• Do not crop the corner squares.
• Do not rotate and then squash the image.

Print quality

• Print at a sharp resolution, not a blurry, enlarged small image.
• Prefer vector or high-resolution images for large prints.
• Avoid glossy surfaces that reflect light.

The surface

• Flat is best. Curves and folds distort the pattern.
• Matt materials reduce glare.
• Keep it clean and free of creases.

Placement

• Put the code at a comfortable height for people to scan.
• Leave enough space around it.
• Add a short line of text nearby saying what the code does.

Test before you print many

Always scan a sample with more than one phone before printing a big batch.

Tips

1. Respect the border.
2. Use dark on light.
3. Test first.

QR Code Scanner's built-in generator lets you create a code, then check it right away with the scanner.

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