Visual Code Generators: QR & Barcode

QR codes have evolved from manufacturing tracking tools to ubiquitous marketing and information-sharing assets. Modern smartphones scan QR codes natively through camera apps, making them accessible to billions of users worldwide. The QR Code Generator creates customizable codes that can contain URLs (for websites and landing pages), WiFi credentials (network name and password), vCard contact information, email addresses, phone numbers, plain text, and even payment information.

Customization transforms generic black-and-white QR codes into branded marketing assets. Add your company logo in the center (the QR code error correction allows up to 30% of the code to be covered while remaining scannable), change colors to match brand guidelines, and adjust size for different applications from business cards (small) to billboards (large). Always test QR codes at their intended print size before finalizing designs.

Error correction levels determine how much damage a QR code can sustain while remaining scannable. Low (L) tolerates 7% damage, Medium (M) handles 15%, Quartile (Q) works with 25%, and High (H) survives 30% damage. Higher error correction creates larger, more complex QR codes. Use High when adding logos or printing on surfaces that might degrade, Medium for most applications, and Low only when minimizing code size is critical.

Barcode generation serves different purposes than QR codes, primarily for retail, inventory management, and product identification. The Barcode Generator supports multiple formats: UPC-A and EAN-13 for retail products sold in stores, Code 128 for shipping and logistics (supports full ASCII character set), Code 39 for internal inventory tracking, and ITF-14 for case labeling in distribution.

Barcode selection depends on your use case. Retail products sold in stores require registered UPC or EAN codes from GS1 (the global standards organization). Internal inventory, shipping labels, and warehouse management can use Code 128 or Code 39 without registration. Generate barcodes at appropriate sizes: retail labels need at least 1.5 inches wide for reliable scanning, while warehouse labels can be larger for distance scanning.

Both QR codes and barcodes require testing before printing large quantities. Scan codes with multiple devices and apps to ensure reliability. Print test samples at actual size on your intended material (glossy vs. matte paper, labels, plastic, metal tags) as surface finish affects scannability. Maintain proper spacing around codes (quiet zones) and avoid warping or distorting the image when placing on curved surfaces.