What is a QR code (and static vs dynamic)?
A QR code is a square barcode that holds text — most often a link. Point a phone camera at it and the content opens instantly. There are two kinds, and the difference matters:
- Static — the data is baked directly into the pattern. It's permanent, free, private, and works forever with no server behind it. What you encode is what people get.
- Dynamic — the code points to a short redirect URL that someone controls, so the destination can be changed later and scans can be tracked. That convenience comes with a subscription, an account, and a company logging every scan.
This generator makes static codes. They never expire, nothing is uploaded, and no one counts the scans. For the vast majority of uses — a poster, a business card, a WiFi sign — static is exactly what you want.
How to make a URL QR code
Pick the URL preset, paste your link (including https://), and download. This is the one to use for "chrome qr code generator" style needs — turning the page you're on, a Google Doc, a Sheet, or any web address into a scannable code.
How to make a WiFi QR code
Choose the WiFi preset, enter your network name (SSID) and password, and pick the security type (WPA is almost always right). Print the code and guests scan it to join — no spelling out a long password. Special characters in your password are handled automatically.
How to make a contact (vCard) QR code
The Contact preset builds a vCard. Fill in any of name, organisation, phone, email, and website — blank fields are simply left out. Scanning adds you straight to someone's phone contacts, which is why it's perfect for business cards and event badges.
How to make an Instagram or social QR code
Use the Social / App preset, choose the app (Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, Facebook), and type your handle — no need to know the URL format. The tool builds the standard https:// web link, so it opens reliably whether or not the app is installed. The full link is shown so you can double-check it before downloading.
QR codes for Google Forms, Sheets & Docs
There's no special trick: open your Form, Sheet, or Doc, copy its share link, and drop it into the URL preset. The result is a scannable code that takes people straight to your form or document — ideal for classrooms, events, and feedback collection.
Styling & scannability tips
A pretty QR that doesn't scan is useless. Two rules keep yours reliable:
- Contrast. Keep the foreground dark and the background light. The tool warns you if the colours are too close to scan.
- Logos need high error-correction. Adding a logo covers the centre, so the generator automatically switches to the highest error-correction level (H) to keep the code readable. Keep logos small and centred.
Download as PNG for screens and everyday printing, or SVG for crisp, infinitely-scalable print work like posters and signage.
FAQ
Does this upload my data? No. Everything is generated in your browser. Your URL, WiFi password, and contact details never leave your device.
Does it track scans? No. These are static codes with no redirect and no analytics. No one — including us — can see who scans them.
Why won't my QR code scan? Usually low contrast or an oversized logo. Darken the foreground, lighten the background, and keep any logo small. The "looks scannable" check helps you catch this.
Which apps are supported? Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, X (Twitter), and Facebook — with your handle turned into a stable web link.
PNG or SVG — which should I download? PNG for screens and quick prints; SVG when you need it razor-sharp at any size, like large posters or professional printing.
Will the code expire? Never. Static QR codes work for as long as the destination they point to exists.