QR Code Size Calculator for print and scan distance
Plan how large a QR code should be before it goes on a sign, label or poster.
Estimate print size
PracticalRecommended minimum
12.0 cm4.7 inWhen to calculate QR print size
Use the QR size calculator before artwork goes to print. A code that looks fine in a browser can be too small on a door sign or too dense for a tiny product label.
Start from scan distance
The right QR size depends on where the phone will be held.
- Measure the distance people will stand from the sign.
- Add extra size for low light, motion or angled placement.
- Use the result as a floor, not a perfect print promise.
When in doubt, print a sample and scan it from the real spot.
Estimate QR code size
- Choose the real scan distance, not the distance from your desk preview.
- Consider whether the QR code is going on a label, table card, flyer, poster, window or wall sign.
- Use a larger size when the QR code contains long data, has a logo or will be printed on rough material.
- Generate or resize the QR code based on the estimate.
- Print one sample at actual size and scan from the intended distance.
Where size planning matters
- Posters
- Table cards
- Small labels
Print size checks
- A practical rule of thumb is scan distance divided by 10: a code scanned from 50 cm should be about 5 cm wide before you add extra safety for glare or damage.
- Small labels need shorter QR payloads, clean contrast and enough quiet zone to survive trimming.
- Posters and signs should be tested from where people naturally stand, not from arm's length.
QR sizing mistakes to avoid
- Designing a QR code at screen size and assuming it will work on paper.
- Forgetting that long URLs and vCards create denser QR codes that need more physical space.
- Letting a design tool shrink the QR code after export.
QR size calculator questions
How big should my QR code be?
Use the 10:1 rule as a starting point: scan distance divided by 10 equals the minimum QR width. A code scanned from 30 cm should be around 3 cm wide. Add more size for dense data, a logo, rough material or poor lighting.
Does a logo mean I need a bigger QR code?
Often yes. A logo covers part of the symbol, so use high error correction and add physical size. If a plain code works at 3 cm, a logo version may deserve 3.5-4 cm in the same setting.
Should I test at actual size?
Always. A QR code that scans on your monitor can fail after resizing, printing, coating or placing it under poor lighting.
What resolution should I export for print?
For raster artwork, aim for 300 DPI at the final printed size. A 3 cm QR code needs roughly 355 pixels across at 300 DPI, but exporting larger is fine. SVG stays sharp because it is vector artwork.
Why do long links need larger QR codes?
More data creates more modules. A very simple QR might be 21 by 21 modules, while a dense one can be 57 by 57 or more. Smaller modules are harder for cameras and printers to resolve.
Is there one universal QR code size rule?
No, but the 10:1 scan-distance rule is a useful starting point. As rough minimums, use about 2 cm for a business card, 3 cm for a table card and 5 cm or more for a wall sign. Dense QR versions need more room because they have more modules.
What is the smallest a QR code can be and still scan?
Do not go below about 2 cm (0.8 inches) for close range scanning. Below that size, most phone cameras struggle to focus on the individual modules, especially if the code is dense or the lighting is poor.
How do I calculate QR code size from scan distance?
Divide the scanning distance by 10 to get a starting minimum. A code scanned from 50 cm needs to be at least 5 cm wide. Add 20 to 30 percent extra for safety if the environment has low light, glare or heavy foot traffic.
What DPI should I use when printing a QR code?
Use 300 DPI for business cards, labels and flyers. For large format prints like posters and banners, 150 DPI is usually enough because people view them from farther away. When possible, export as SVG so the file stays sharp at any size.
More tools for print testing
QR Code Contrast Checker
Avoid custom QR colors that look stylish but scan poorly.
QR Code Label Generator
Prepare QR codes for label-style printing and repeated physical placement.
QR Code Flyer Generator
Make a clean QR flyer for counters, walls, events and handouts.
QR Code Table Tent Generator
Design a folded table tent with QR panels for restaurants, events and service desks.