QR Code Size and Printing Best Practices
Minimum Size Guidelines
Minimum QR code print size depends on data volume and scanning distance. For smartphone scanning at 10-20cm, at least 15mm per side is recommended. For business cards, 15-20mm; for posters, 30mm or more.
Data-heavy QR codes (long URLs or text) have more modules, making each module smaller at the same print size. For large data volumes, increase print size or shorten the URL.
Scanning Distance and Print Size
Print size should match the expected scanning distance. A rule of thumb: 1/10 of the scanning distance equals the minimum QR code side length.
- Business cards/receipts (10-20cm): 15-20mm
- Table tents/POP displays (20-30cm): 20-30mm
- Posters/signs (50cm-1m): 50-100mm
- Outdoor signs/banners (several meters): 150mm+
Material-Specific Tips
Print material affects QR code readability:
- Glossy paper: Light reflection may hinder scanning. Matte finish recommended
- Fabric: Fiber texture blurs module boundaries. Print larger
- Metal/glass: Strong reflections. Etching or sticker application is reliable
- Cardboard: Watch for surface texture and brown color. Print on a white base layer
- Curved surfaces (bottles, cans): Distortion hinders scanning. Keep QR codes small and place on gently curved areas
Pre-Print Checklist
Points to verify before submitting print data:
- Quiet zone (4 modules of white margin) around the QR code
- Resolution at 300dpi or higher (vector formats are fine)
- Sufficient black-white contrast (avoid gray or light colors)
- Scan test at actual expected distance
- Linked URL works correctly
Export print data in vector formats like PNG or SVG to prevent quality loss when scaling. Avoid JPEG as compression artifacts blur module boundaries.