QR Codes: Everything You Need to Know in 2025

QR codes have seen a massive resurgence. From restaurant menus to payment systems, they're everywhere. Here's your complete guide.

How QR Codes Work

QR (Quick Response) codes store data in a 2D grid of black and white squares. They can encode URLs, text, contact info, WiFi credentials, and more.

QR codes have built-in error correction that allows them to be read even if partially damaged:

Level L (7%): Smallest QR code, least redundancy

Level M (15%): Good balance of size and reliability

Level Q (25%): Can withstand significant damage

Level H (30%): Maximum reliability, largest code

1. Maintain contrast: Dark foreground, light background

2. Keep quiet zone: Leave white space around the code

3. Test before printing: Always verify the code scans correctly

4. Use error correction: Level M or higher for printed materials

Create custom QR codes with our QR Code Generator — customize colors, size, and error correction level.

Adding QR codes to marketing assets? Use our Watermark Maker to place the code alongside your branding in a single pass.

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