Error correction allows a QR code to be scanned even if partially damaged or obscured. L (Low) recovers 7%, M (Medium) 15%, Q (Quartile) 25%, and H (High) 30%. If you're adding a logo, always use H level since the logo physically covers part of the data modules. Without a logo, M is sufficient for most use cases.

For reliable scanning, your logo should cover no more than 25-30% of the QR code's data area. Our tool automatically sizes logos to approximately 22% of the visible QR area. Combined with H-level error correction (30% recovery), this leaves a safe margin. Always test-scan your QR code with multiple devices before printing or publishing.

Modern QR scanners are robust enough to read styled QR codes with rounded or circular modules, as long as there's sufficient contrast between foreground and background. However, for mission-critical applications (e.g., payment codes), we recommend using square modules with sharp edges for maximum compatibility with older scanners.

The quiet zone is the white border surrounding the QR code—typically 4 modules wide on all sides. It helps scanners distinguish the QR code from surrounding content. Our tool automatically includes a proper quiet zone. If you embed the QR code in a design, make sure not to crop into this area.

PNG is a raster format—ideal for websites, social media, and most digital uses. It's pixel-based at a fixed resolution. SVG is a vector format that scales infinitely without quality loss—perfect for print, billboards, and professional design work. SVG files are also typically smaller for QR codes. Choose SVG for print and PNG for digital.

QR code capacity depends on the version (size) and error correction level. A Version 40 QR code (177×177 modules) can hold up to 7,089 numeric characters or 4,296 alphanumeric characters at L-level. For URLs, a typical web address uses Version 2-6 (25×25 to 41×41 modules). Shorter URLs produce smaller, easier-to-scan QR codes.

While our tool focuses on solid-color designs (most reliable), you can create gradient QR codes by using the SVG output and editing it in design software. For reliable scanning, maintain at least 55% contrast between dark and light areas. Extreme gradients or low-contrast color combinations may cause scan failures.