QR Code Types and How to Choose - URL, Text, and vCard Compared

Types of Data You Can Store in a QR Code

A QR code is more than just a black-and-white pattern. It is a versatile information carrier capable of storing various data formats. The type of data stored determines what happens on the smartphone after scanning.

The main types include URLs (links to websites), plain text, vCard (contact information), Wi-Fi connection details, email addresses, phone numbers, SMS, and map coordinates. Each format has specific prefixes or structures that smartphones recognize, automatically launching the appropriate app after scanning.

Choosing the right type comes down to one question: what do you want the person scanning the code to do? The following sections explore the characteristics and best use cases for each major type.

URL Type - The Most Widely Used Format

URL type is the most commonly used QR code format. It stores a website URL directly, and scanning it automatically opens the browser to display the page.

The strength of URL type lies in its versatility. It works as a gateway to landing pages, product pages, campaign sites, social media profiles, and any other web content. Using a URL shortener keeps the data compact and the QR code small.

One caveat: if the linked page is deleted, the QR code becomes useless. For printed materials, ensure the link remains permanent, or use a redirect-capable short URL to accommodate future changes.

vCard Type - Digitizing Business Card Exchange

The vCard type stores contact information such as name, phone number, email address, company name, and job title in a single QR code. When scanned, the data can be saved directly to the smartphone's contacts app, making it a popular digital alternative or supplement to traditional business cards.

The vCard format is based on an international standard (RFC 6350) and is supported by virtually all smartphones. Because it stores more data than a URL, the resulting QR code tends to be larger. When printing on business cards, keep the information to essentials to minimize code size.

At trade shows and seminars, printing a vCard QR code on your business card saves the recipient from manual data entry and prevents typos, making it especially effective when accurate contact sharing matters.

Text, Email, and SMS Types - Simple Information Delivery

Plain text type stores arbitrary strings as-is. It is ideal for coupon codes, serial numbers, and short messages where you want to convey text information without opening a browser.

Email type uses the mailto: prefix to pre-set the recipient address, subject, and body. Placing it on store signage or brochures lets users send an email without manually typing the address.

SMS type uses the smsto: prefix to store a phone number and message body. It suits campaign participation and service sign-ups that start with an SMS action.

These simple formats keep data volume low, resulting in smaller QR codes. They are particularly useful when print space is limited, such as on small labels or receipts.

How to Choose the Right Type for Your Use Case

When unsure which QR code type to use, consider the following guidelines:

• Direct users to a web page: Choose URL type. Use a URL shortener to minimize code size.
• Share contact information: Choose vCard type. Perfect for business cards and event materials.
• Connect users to Wi-Fi: Choose Wi-Fi type. Convenient for sharing guest networks.
• Convey a short code or number: Choose text type. Ideal for coupon codes and serial numbers.
• Prompt users to send an email: Choose email type. Subject and body can be pre-filled.

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