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QR Code Print Size Calculator

Estimate the minimum print size for your QR code based on scanning distance and QR code density.

Typical: 20–30 cm for close-up, 1–3 m for posters, 5–10 m for billboards

Recommended Minimum Size

3.0 cm × 3.0 cm

This is a guideline based on the 10:1 distance-to-size rule. Always test your QR code with actual devices before final printing.

How the Calculation Works

The commonly used rule of thumb is the 10:1 distance-to-size ratio: the scanning distance should be no more than 10 times the width of the QR code. For example, if your QR code is 3 cm wide, it should scan reliably from up to 30 cm away.

Important Considerations

  • Quiet zone: Always include a blank margin around the QR code (at least 4 modules wide). Our generator includes this automatically.
  • Contrast: Dark QR on light background works best. Avoid light colours on dark backgrounds.
  • Minimum practical size: For most printing methods, 2 cm is the practical minimum. Below this, printing accuracy becomes critical.
  • Dense QR codes: Codes with more data (long URLs, vCards, WiFi credentials) require more space because they contain more modules.
  • Testing: This calculator provides guidelines, not guarantees. Always test with multiple phones before final production.

Density Guide

  • Low: Short URL (e.g., https://example.com) — about 25–35 characters.
  • Medium: Typical web URL with path — about 50–70 characters.
  • High: Long URL with query parameters — about 100–150 characters.
  • Very High: vCard, WiFi credentials, or long text — 200+ characters.