Scan a QR code from camera or image
Read QR codes from a camera, screenshot or image file.
Scan or upload
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When to scan a QR code first
Use the QR scanner when you need to check what a code actually contains before opening it or sending it to print. It is useful for public codes, screenshots, downloaded artwork and proof checks where the visible design does not tell the whole story.
Read before you open
A scanner can show the value, but it cannot decide whether you trust it.
- Look at the full domain before visiting a link.
- Be extra careful with codes placed on top of old stickers.
- Use upload mode when you want to inspect a screenshot first.
For suspicious codes, closing the tab is a valid result.
Scan or upload a QR code
- Start the camera scanner or upload a clear QR code image.
- Read the decoded value before opening any link.
- Check whether the code points to a URL, WiFi payload, text, contact card, email, SMS or another format.
- If the scan fails, use a sharper image with the full quiet zone visible.
- For your own printed codes, scan the final printed sample before distribution.
Where QR scanning helps
- Checking a supplier's printed proof before production
- Reading a QR code from a screenshot in a support ticket
- Inspecting a stickered public QR before opening the link
Decoded value checks
- A QR scanner is useful for checking unknown posters, screenshots, downloaded artwork and print proofs.
- Public QR codes can be tampered with, so inspect the destination before trusting it.
- Upload the original image when possible. Cropped screenshots and compressed photos can hide the quiet zone.
QR scanner mistakes to avoid
- Opening an unknown decoded link before reading the destination.
- Uploading a blurry screenshot with the quiet zone cropped away.
- Sharing a decoded value before checking whether it contains private data.
QR scanner questions
Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
Yes. Upload a clear screenshot or image file. If the screenshot is tiny, cropped or compressed, try the original image or a larger capture.
Is it safe to open every decoded link?
No. Read the decoded URL first, especially for codes on public posters, stickers or packages. A scanner shows the destination but cannot prove it is safe. For a full walkthrough of what to check before and after you scan, see the QR Code Safety Guide on this site.
Does the scanner upload my image to a server?
The scanner decodes everything in the browser and does not upload your image. Still, avoid scanning images that contain private information unless you are comfortable viewing them on this device.
Why will a QR code not scan?
Work through it in order: print first, file second, destination last. Check for glare, blur, damage, tight cropping and a code that is too small for the scan distance. Then make sure the image was not stretched or compressed and finally confirm the decoded link or payload is valid.
Can this scanner read barcodes too?
The scanner uses a multi-format reader, but dedicated barcode workflows should use the Barcode Scanner page because barcode labels have different format and validation concerns.
More tools for checking QR codes
Free QR Code Generator
Create a static QR code for the everyday jobs people actually print and share.
URL QR Code Generator
Paste a link and turn it into a scannable QR code for printed materials.
WiFi QR Code Generator
Let guests scan once to join a WiFi network without typing the password.
QR Code Size Calculator
Plan how large a QR code should be before it goes on a sign, label or poster.