QR Code Size Guide: Minimum Sizes for Print and Digital

The Golden Rule of QR Code Sizing

Here's the most important rule: The scanning distance is approximately 10x the QR code width.

A 1-inch QR code can be scanned from about 10 inches away. A 10-inch QR code works from about 100 inches (8+ feet) away.

Minimum Sizes by Use Case

Business Cards

Minimum: 0.8 inches (20mm)

Recommended: 1 inch (25mm)

Scanning distance: 8-10 inches

Flyers and Brochures (Letter/A4)

Minimum: 1 inch (25mm)

Recommended: 1.5 inches (38mm)

Scanning distance: 10-15 inches

Posters (18x24 inches)

Minimum: 2 inches (50mm)

Recommended: 3 inches (75mm)

Scanning distance: 2-3 feet

Table Tents / Menu Cards

Minimum: 1.5 inches (38mm)

Recommended: 2 inches (50mm)

Scanning distance: 12-20 inches

Yard Signs / Real Estate Signs

Minimum: 4 inches (100mm)

Recommended: 6 inches (150mm)

Scanning distance: 4-6 feet

Billboards

Minimum: 12+ inches

Size varies: Based on viewing distance

Scanning distance: Consider if QR codes are even practical

Product Packaging

Minimum: 0.5 inches (12mm) for close scanning

Recommended: 0.8 inches (20mm)

Scanning distance: 5-8 inches

Factors That Affect Scanability

1. Content Complexity

More data = more modules = harder to scan at small sizes

Content TypeMinimum Size

Short URL0.5 inch
Long URL0.8 inch
vCard (basic)1 inch
vCard (full)1.2 inch
WiFi0.8 inch

2. Error Correction Level

Higher error correction = larger code = needs more space

LevelError CorrectionSize Impact

L7%Smallest
M15%Standard
Q25%Larger
H30%Largest

3. Quiet Zone

The white space around your QR code (the "quiet zone") is essential. Always maintain at least 4 modules of white space on all sides.

4. Print Quality

Digital printing: Can go smaller

Offset printing: Standard minimums

Screen printing: Need larger sizes

Embroidery: Much larger (3+ inches minimum)

Size Calculator

Use this formula to calculate your minimum QR code size:

Minimum Size = Scanning Distance ÷ 10

For example:

Want to scan from 3 feet (36 inches)? Minimum size = 3.6 inches

Scanning from arm's length (24 inches)? Minimum size = 2.4 inches

Digital Display Sizes

For screens, think in pixels:

Display TypeMinimum Size

Website/App150x150 pixels
Email signature100x100 pixels
Social media200x200 pixels
Digital signage10% of screen height
Video overlay8% of frame

Testing Your QR Code

Before finalizing, always test:

Multiple devices: iPhone, Android, older phones

Various distances: Near, far, and in-between

Different angles: Straight on and at angles

Lighting conditions: Bright, dim, artificial

Print samples: If printing, test actual output

Common Mistakes

Too small for the distance: Size for your actual use case

Ignoring quiet zone: Don't crop too close

Low resolution exports: Use vector (SVG) for print

Not testing: Always test before mass production

Too much data: Simplify content or increase size

Quick Reference Chart

Use CaseMin SizeBest SizeMax Distance

Business card0.8"1"10"
Flyer1"1.5"15"
Poster2"3"30"
Table tent1.5"2"20"
Yard sign4"6"60"
Banner6"10"100"

Create the Right Size QR Code

Our QR code generator lets you customize the size of your download. Choose PNG for digital use or SVG for print to scale to any size without losing quality.