What is the minimum size of a QR code?

Created on 10 July, 2023 • FAQ • 1 minutes read

The minimum size of a QR code depends on several factors, including the amount of information stored, the scanning distance, the quality of the printer used and the camera of the scanning device. There is no set minimum size for a QR code, but there are some guidelines you can follow to ensure that your QR code is reliable and easy to scan:

1. Module size: The QR code consists of square modules (pixels) that represent the stored information. The size of these modules determines the final size of the QR code. Make sure the modules are large enough so that they are clearly visible and readable by the scanning device's camera.
2. Scan distance: In general, the larger the QR code, the farther away it can be scanned. A rule of thumb is to determine the size of the QR code based on a ratio of 1:10 to 1:15 between the size of the QR code and the scanning distance. For example, if you want a QR code to be scannable from a distance of 15 cm (6 inches), the size of the QR code should be at least 1 to 1.5 cm (0.4 to 0.6 inches).
3. Print quality: The print quality of the QR code may affect the minimum size. If you use a high-quality printer, it may be possible to print a smaller QR code without sacrificing scannability. Make sure the printout of the QR code is sharp and clear, with well-defined modules.
4. Error Correction Level: QR codes have built-in error correction mechanisms that allow partially damaged or distorted codes to be scanned. Higher error correction levels provide more redundancy but require more modules, making the QR code larger. Choose an error correction level appropriate for your application and take this into account when determining the minimum size of your QR code.

Keep in mind that QR codes that are too small can be difficult to scan. It is always better to choose a larger and clearer QR code to ensure scannability.