QR Code Versions 1-40 Explained - Size and Capacity Guide
Version Means Module Count
A QR code's version defines its grid size. Version 1 is 21x21 modules, increasing by 4 per version up to Version 40 at 177x177 (31,329 modules). More modules means more data capacity but harder scanning - a fundamental tradeoff between capacity and readability.
Capacity by Version
At error correction level M: Version 1 holds 34 digits or 20 alphanumeric characters (barely a short URL). Version 5 holds 202 digits or 122 alphanumeric (long URLs with UTM parameters). Version 10 holds 652 digits (basic vCard data). Version 40 holds 5,596 digits but is impractical for most uses due to tiny module size.
Auto vs Manual Version Selection
Most generators auto-select the version based on data length. Manual selection matters when print size is constrained: business cards need Version 5 or below (15-20mm limit), while large signage can accommodate higher versions with adequate module size.
Error Correction and Version Relationship
Higher error correction increases the version needed for the same data. Level L (7%) might need Version 3, while Level H (30%) needs Version 5 for identical content. Recommended: Level M for general use, Q for outdoor/dirty environments, H for logo-embedded designs.
Recommended Versions by Use Case
URL only: Version 3-4. Wi-Fi credentials: Version 5-7. vCard: Version 8-12 (or use a URL instead). Long text: Version 15+ (URL redirect recommended for reliability). Versions above 20 are not recommended outside specialized industrial applications.