How Big Should a QR Code Be? It’s Trickier Than You Think.

When you generate a QR code, it’s easy to assume you can print it at any size and it’ll “just work.” But the truth is: size matters—a lot.

The Problem: Invisible Limits

Print a QR code too small, and phones won’t scan it. There are real, measurable limits based on:

• QR version (how much data is encoded),
• Scanning distance, and
• Printer resolution or medium (paper, stickers, signage, etc.).

There’s also a direct relationship between scan distance and QR size—the farther away someone is when scanning, the larger the printed code needs to be.

And it’s not just size. Color contrast plays a big role too. Low contrast between the QR code and background can reduce scan reliability, especially in challenging conditions.

The Fix: Built into Simple QR Code Maker

In Simple QR Code Maker, I built a feature that does the math for you! When you generate a code, the app:

• Shows the minimum recommended print size, based on content and expected scan distance,
• Adjusts for error correction level and color contrast,

No more guesswork. Just codes that work.

Joe