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Free QR Code Generator | HiMail.ai
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QR Code Generator

Create beautiful QR codes for any URL, WhatsApp link, or contact info. Free forever.

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Enter content to generate QR

What Is a QR Code?

Understanding Quick Response codes and their history

A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that can store various types of information including URLs, text, contact details, payment information, and more. Unlike traditional barcodes that only hold data horizontally, QR codes encode information both horizontally and vertically, allowing them to store significantly more data.

Invented in 1994 by Denso Wave

QR codes were created by Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota, to track vehicle parts during manufacturing. The technology was designed to be scanned quickly and accurately—hence "Quick Response." The format was released as an open standard, allowing widespread adoption across industries worldwide.

When scanned with a smartphone camera or QR reader app, QR codes instantly trigger actions like opening websites, displaying text, adding contacts, connecting to Wi-Fi, or initiating payments. Today, they're essential tools for contactless interactions, marketing campaigns, authentication, and information sharing.

QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters and feature built-in error correction, meaning they still work even if partially damaged or obscured—up to 30% of the code can be restored automatically.

How to Create a QR Code

Generate your custom QR code in 3 simple steps

1

Select Type & Enter Content

Choose your QR code type (URL, WhatsApp, Email, Phone, or Text) and enter the corresponding information you want to encode.

2

Customize Colors

Optionally customize the foreground and background colors to match your brand. Ensure good contrast for reliable scanning.

3

Download & Use

Download your QR code as PNG and use it on websites, marketing materials, business cards, or anywhere you need quick access.

QR Code Use Cases

Common applications for QR codes across industries

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Website Links

Direct users to your website, landing pages, product pages, or promotional campaigns with a simple scan.

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Business Cards

Add QR codes to business cards that instantly save contact information or link to your digital portfolio.

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Restaurant Menus

Replace physical menus with QR codes on tables. Customers scan to view digital menus on their phones.

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Payment Links

Enable contactless payments by encoding payment URLs, UPI links, or cryptocurrency wallet addresses.

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Wi-Fi Sharing

Generate QR codes for Wi-Fi credentials. Guests scan to connect automatically without typing passwords.

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Event Tickets

Use QR codes for event check-in, digital tickets, and access control at conferences and concerts.

QR Code Best Practices

Tips for creating effective, scannable QR codes

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Minimum Size Matters

Print QR codes at least 2 x 2 cm (0.8 x 0.8 inches) for reliable scanning. Larger is better for viewing from a distance.

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Ensure High Contrast

Use dark foreground colors on light backgrounds. Avoid low contrast combinations that cameras struggle to read.

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Test Before Printing

Always test your QR code on multiple devices and apps before mass printing to ensure it scans correctly.

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Use Error Correction

QR codes have built-in error correction. Higher levels allow more damage tolerance but create denser codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a QR code? +
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information like URLs, text, or contact details. Invented in 1994 by Denso Wave for Toyota, they were designed to track vehicle parts. Today, QR codes are used for marketing, payments, authentication, and contactless information sharing. When scanned with a smartphone camera, they instantly trigger actions like opening websites or saving contacts.
Are QR codes free to generate? +
Yes, this QR code generator is 100% free with no signup required. You can create unlimited QR codes for any purpose, customize colors, and download them in high quality. Static QR codes (like those for URLs and text) never expire and work forever with no scanning limits or subscription fees.
Do QR codes expire? +
Static QR codes generated with this tool never expire. They permanently encode the information and will work forever, even offline. However, if the destination URL becomes unavailable or contact details change, the QR code won't function properly. Dynamic QR codes (from paid services) can be edited after creation but may require ongoing subscriptions.
What's the difference between static and dynamic QR codes? +
Static QR codes permanently encode information directly into the pattern. Once generated, content cannot be changed, but they work forever with no dependencies. Dynamic QR codes use a short URL that redirects to your content, allowing you to change the destination without reprinting. Dynamic codes require a service to maintain the redirect and often have subscription fees, while static codes are free and independent.
What formats can I download QR codes in? +
This generator allows you to download QR codes as PNG images, which work great for digital use (websites, social media, presentations) and print materials. PNG format provides good quality, supports transparency, and is universally compatible with all devices and platforms.
Can I customize the QR code colors? +
Yes, you can customize both the foreground (dark modules) and background colors. However, ensure sufficient contrast for reliable scanning. Dark foreground on light background works best. Avoid light-colored foregrounds or low contrast combinations as they may not scan properly on all devices.
What can I encode in a QR code? +
You can encode various types of content: URLs (website links), WhatsApp click-to-chat links, email addresses (mailto links), phone numbers (tel links), and plain text. Each QR code can store up to approximately 4,296 alphanumeric characters, though shorter content is recommended for better scanning reliability and smaller physical sizes.
How do I scan a QR code? +
Modern smartphones have built-in QR code scanning in the camera app. Simply open your camera and point it at the QR code—a notification will appear with the action. On iPhone (iOS 11+), use the native Camera app. On Android, most camera apps support QR scanning, or use Google Lens. You can also download dedicated QR scanner apps for additional features.

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