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QR Codes: Choosing the Right Format

Not all QR codes are created equal. The format you choose determines what happens when someone scans your code: open a link, join a Wi-Fi network, add a contact, or feed structured data into an app. Selecting the correct type saves time and prevents bad user experiences.

Table of contents

    When to Use URL

    Use a URL QR for landing pages, campaigns, menus, app downloads, and any action that starts on the web. Keep links short and use HTTPS. If you need tracking, use UTM parameters and a short, human-readable slug.

    Best for: websites, promo pages, documentation.

    Tip: Avoid linking to files that require large downloads on mobile.

    When to Use Wi-Fi

    Let visitors connect to your network without typing a password. The scanner will prefill SSID, encryption type, and password.

    Best for: offices, cafés, event venues.

    Tip: Set a guest SSID with bandwidth limits and a rotating password.

    When to Use vCard

    For business cards, event badges, and booth signage. A vCard embeds name, company, phone, email—and in many cases, the device offers a one-tap “Add to contacts”.

    Best for: networking, conferences, printed collateral.

    Tip: Keep it clean: name, role, email, phone, URL.

    When to Use JSON (or Raw Text)

    For developer-facing use cases, kiosk flows, or internal tools, JSON lets you pass structured data that an app can parse. Example: an in-store device scanning a JSON QR to preload a configuration.

    Best for: apps, IoT devices, internal operations.

    Tip: Keep payloads small—most scanners dislike huge QR matrices.

    Design and Reliability Considerations

    1. Preserve contrast: dark modules on a light background scan best.
    2. Leave a quiet zone (margin) around the code.
    3. Test prints at the actual size.
    4. If adding a logo, use high error correction.

    Conclusion: The right QR format is the one that completes the user’s task instantly. Start with the outcome you want, then choose the type accordingly. Generate your QR code

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