QR Code Size: How Small Can a QR Code Be?

Ilaha Mammadova

Jun 20, 2024

8 min read

QR code size

A QR code can be as small as 1x1 centimeter (0.4x0.4 inches), depending on the purpose. A configuration of 38x38 pixels indicates an appropriate QR code resolution for a QR code measuring 1x1 cm. QR code size for print matters. The size of a QR code is determined by encoded data, error correction level, scannability, and printing. To print a QR code in a small size, access QR Code Creator, create a QR code, and select the minimum small print size of 1x1 cm needed when printing the QR code. To create a QR code of a perfect size, access QR Code Creator, create a QR code, and ensure it is printed in the perfect size of 2x2 cm (0.8x0.8 inches) is needed when printing the QR code.

QR codes are used in any size, depending on the use, although there are QR code size requirements. The minimum size for a QR code is 1x1 centimeters (0.4x0.4 inches), but the recommended size for a QR code is 2x2 cm (0,8 x 0,8 inches). To print a QR code at the minimum size of the QR code, users need to select the 1x1 size during the printing process after creating it. Its width must be at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) and located at least 20 meters (65 feet) away when a QR code is placed on a billboard.

How Small Can a QR Code Be?

A QR code can be as small as 1x1 centimeter (0.4x0.4 inches), depending on the purpose. It becomes problematic when the QR code is smaller than the size. The best size for a QR code is 2x2 centimeters (0.8x0.8 inches), but in some cases, the QR code minimum size for print is acceptable. More minor QR codes store less information and are not read by some scanners due to size when scanned. The QR codes must be checked from a close distance, and the print quality must be high enough to be scanned easily. Creating a QR code smaller than the minimum QR code size makes scanning unfeasible and difficult. The QR code loses its effectiveness in terms of usability.

How Big Does a QR Code Need to Be?

QR codes need to be at least 2x2 centimeters (0.8x0.8 inches), a standard QR code size. It creates problems in the basic scanning process and is not scanned by some scanners when QR codes are created in smaller sizes. It leads to the QR code not functioning effectively. However, QR codes are generally made in any size as needed. There is no specific size limit for them. For example, the biggest QR code with extensive data and custom designs is typically 5 x 5 centimeters (about 2 x 2 inches) in size. Therefore, it's important to note that the size of a QR code varies depending on its intended use. It is necessary to use the largest QR code in some cases.

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What is the Resolution of a QR Code?

A configuration of 38x38 pixels indicates it's in an appropriate resolution for a QR code minimum size pixels measuring 1x1 cm. It causes readability issues for the QR code if it's not resolved correctly. Therefore, considering the minimum QR code size for print, the pixel count is sufficient. However, considering the recommended pixel size, a QR code measuring 2x2 cm requires 76x76 pixels. It's the ideal size of the QR code in print and indicates that it is in the perfect QR code high resolution.

Does QR Code Size Matter?

Yes, QR code size matters. The size of QR codes varies depending on where and for what purpose they are used. For example, a QR code on a product packaging is not the same size as a billboard. The QR code does not function if people are not able to scan. Placing a small QR code on a giant billboard makes it unfeasible for users to scan it. Therefore, it's essential to determine the ideal QR code size and print it in that size based on its intended use.

What Determines the Size of a QR Code?

The size of a QR code is determined by encoded data, error correction level, scannability, and printing. The 4 factors that influence QR code size are listed below.

  • Encoded data: Large-sized QR codes store more data. However, a small QR code stores less information due to space constraints, one of the most critical factors in determining size.
  • Error correction level: The error correction level in QR codes is used to read data in case of damage. There are 4 error correction levels, and the highest level is used for large QR codes. A high error correction level is not feasible for the smallest QR code size for print.
  • Scannability: The scanning process for large QR codes is more straightforward than for small ones. User devices read large QR codes in a few seconds. However, reading a small QR code is complex, and scanning occurs after several attempts.
  • Printing: Sufficient resolution in large QR codes ensures higher quality and easier scanning. However, the resolution is lower in small QR codes in some cases.

What Size Should QR Code Be for Print?

QR codes should be 2x2 centimeters (0.8x0.8 inches) for printing. It leads to scanning difficulties, and users assume that the QR code is not working when it is smaller. However, the size of the QR code depends on its usage. Sometimes, a larger size is required for scanning from a distance, or a smaller size is needed for specific purposes such as product packaging. However, the ideal size for QR codes is 2x2 centimeters (0.8x0.8 inches), ensuring they are printed and scanned correctly.

What is the minimum QR size for print?

The minimum QR code size for print is 1x1 centimeter (0.4x0.4 inches). QR codes are printed in the size, but it's not ideal. Some scanners have difficulty scanning QR codes of the size because they are too small. Therefore, it is generally advisable not to print QR codes at the minimum size QR code unless absolutely necessary. However, the smallest size for a QR code is sometimes required and printed without issues.

How to Print QR Code Small Size

To print a QR code in small size, 6 steps are listed below.

  1. Access QR Code Creator.
  2. Choose any of the desired solution types.
  3. Enter the information.
  4. Design the QR code.
  5. Download the QR code.
  6. Select the minimum small print size of 1x1 cm when printing the QR code.

How Big Does a QR Code Need to Be on a Billboard?How Big Does a QR Code Need to Be on a Billboard?

A QR code needs to be 2 meters (6.5 feet) wide on a billboard. It's essential to consider the scanning distance for people when placing a QR code on a billboard. The QR code must be designed with the understanding that users are scanning it from an average viewing distance, which differs from the situation of scanning a QR code directly in front of the eyes. The QR code must be positioned such that it's at least 20 meters (65 feet) away from the user scanning it. It must be tested by scanning it from the distance viewed on the billboard to ensure that it is checked quickly and accurately with that size and placement after designing and printing the QR code.

What is the Right Dimension of the QR Code From a Long Distance?

The right dimension of the QR code is from a long distance of at least 20 meters (65 feet) away. QR codes that are not usually small do not work correctly when scanned from long distances. That's why QR codes printed on billboards and posters are printed in larger dimensions, making it easier to scan them comfortably.

How to Create the QR Code of a Perfect Size

To create a QR code of a perfect size 5 steps are listed below.

  1. Access QR Code Creator.
  2. Choose one of the QR code solution types.
  3. Fill in the required information for the solution.
  4. Download the QR code.
  5. Ensure it is printed at the perfect size of 2x2 cm (0.8x0.8 inches) when printing the QR code.

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Content Manager

Ilaha Mammadova

As an experienced content manager, Ilaha specializes in crafting SEO-friendly content that blends creativity and strategy. With a passion for delivering high-quality, engaging content, Ilaha focuses on innovative ideas to help brands elevate their digital presence. Her dedication to excellence ensures that every piece ranks well and resonates with the target audience, making a lasting impact. In her free time, she enjoys singing a song and capturing moments through photography, adding an extra touch of creativity to everything she does.

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