The quickest ways
| You want a QR code for | Easiest free method |
|---|---|
| A web page | Chrome or Edge on a computer: share or QR icon in the address bar |
| Your Wi-Fi network | Android or iPhone Wi-Fi settings, or a free generator |
| Anything else (text, email, contact card, location) | A free web-based QR generator |
| A code you can edit later | A dynamic QR service (often paid) |
A QR code for a web page
Google Chrome (desktop)
- Open the page.
- Click the share icon in the address bar (or right-click the page) and choose Create QR code. In some versions, the option is under the menu > Cast, save and share.
- Click Download. Chrome saves a PNG image.
Microsoft Edge (desktop)
- Open the page.
- Click inside the address bar, then the QR code icon, or right-click the page and choose Create QR code for this page.
- Click Download.
On a phone
- Chrome on Android and iPhone: open the page, tap Share, then QR code.
- Safari on iPhone has no built-in generator. Use Chrome, a Shortcuts automation, or a free generator site.
Tip: shorten very long links first, or use a short page address. Shorter links make simpler codes that scan more reliably.
A QR code for your Wi-Fi
This lets guests join without typing the password.
- Android: Settings > Network & internet > Internet (or Connections > Wi-Fi), tap the gear next to your network, then Share or the QR icon. Print or screenshot the code.
- iPhone: iOS can share a password with nearby Apple devices, and the Passwords app can show Wi-Fi passwords, but it does not create a printable QR code. Use a free generator and choose Wi-Fi, then enter the network name, security type (usually WPA2 or WPA3) and password.
Forgot the password? See how to find your Wi-Fi password.
Other types: free generators
A free QR generator can encode:
- Plain text or a short message
- Email with a subject line filled in
- Phone number or SMS
- Contact card (vCard), so people can save your details
- Map location
- Calendar event
Look for generators that create static codes, do not require an account, and let you download a high-resolution PNG or SVG.
Static vs dynamic codes
| Static | Dynamic | |
|---|---|---|
| Stores | The link or text itself | A short link run by the service |
| Can you change the destination? | No | Yes |
| Scan statistics | No | Yes |
| Expires? | Never | If the service shuts down or you stop paying |
| Cost | Free | Often a subscription |
For most uses, a static code is best. Choose dynamic only if you need to change the destination after printing, such as a restaurant menu or a long print run, and pick a reputable provider. A common complaint is a "free" dynamic code that stops working after a trial, taking every printed copy with it.
Making a code that scans
- Contrast: dark code on a light background. Avoid light-on-dark or low-contrast colour combinations.
- Quiet zone: keep a clear margin around the code, about four squares wide.
- Size: at least 2 × 2 cm (0.8 inches) for close-up scanning. For posters, aim for about one tenth of the scanning distance, so 20 cm for 2 metres.
- Logos: a small logo in the centre usually works, because QR codes have built-in error correction, but test it.
- Use vector files (SVG) for print, so the code stays sharp at any size.
- Test with several phones, in the light where it will be used, before printing hundreds.
- Add a short call to action, such as "Scan for the menu", and print the web address underneath for people who cannot scan.
For businesses, QR codes work best as part of a wider plan. See our small business marketing guide.
Avoiding QR code scams
Fake QR codes, sometimes called "quishing", are a growing scam.
- Look before you tap. Your phone camera shows the link before opening it. Check the domain carefully.
- Watch for stickers placed over real codes on parking meters, chargers and posters.
- Be wary of QR codes in emails or letters asking you to pay a fine, reset a password or verify an account.
- For payments, type the official website or use the official app instead.
Our guide to scam texts and phishing emails covers the same tricks.
Key takeaways
- Chrome and Edge make web page QR codes for free from the address bar or share menu.
- Android can share your Wi-Fi as a QR code; on iPhone, use a free generator.
- Prefer static codes; dynamic ones can stop working if the service ends.
- Keep strong contrast, a clear margin and at least 2 cm width, and test before printing.