Create a QR code for plain text

When plain text belongs in a QR code

Text QR codes are useful when a scan should show information immediately. Keep the message short. Very long text makes the QR denser and harder to print at small sizes.

Create a text QR code

1. Write the exact text you want someone to see after scanning.
2. Keep it short if the QR code will be printed small, because long text makes the code denser.
3. Generate the QR code and check the preview for visual density.
4. Download PNG, SVG, or PDF depending on whether the code is for a label, document, or print layout.
5. Scan it on a phone and confirm the text is readable without extra context.

Where text QR codes help

• Equipment notes
• Short instructions
• Offline IDs

Text length checks

• Text QR codes are good for offline notes, equipment IDs, short instructions, classroom labels, and simple handoff messages.
• If the text is long or likely to change, a webpage may be better than encoding all of it directly.
• Avoid private secrets. Anyone who scans or photographs the QR code can read the text.

Text QR mistakes to avoid

• Putting a long paragraph into a QR code that will be printed as a small label.
• Encoding confidential information because the QR code looks like a private pattern.
• Forgetting to scan the final exported file, especially after resizing it in another app.

Text QR code questions