What size should a QR code be when printed?
A QR code should be at least 0.8 inch (2 cm) wide, and about one tenth of the scanning distance for a short link, so a poster read from 10 feet needs a code about 12 inches wide. Denser codes need more.
Minimum printed size
7.2 in (18.3 cm)
Square, including the white margin. For a code 25×25 modules (version 2).
Export at least 2,160 px wide for 300 DPI print, or use SVG for any size.
The 10:1 rule
Printers and sign makers use a simple ratio: the code's width should be at least a tenth of the distance it's scanned from. That works for a short link (a version 2 code, 25 modules plus margin). Longer content means more, smaller modules, so the calculator scales the size up in proportion.
| Where | Typical distance | Minimum width |
|---|---|---|
| Business card | 8 in (20 cm) | 0.8 in (2 cm) |
| Table tent or menu | 1–2 ft (30–60 cm) | 1.2–2.4 in (3–6 cm) |
| Shop window poster | 6 ft (1.8 m) | 7 in (18 cm) |
| Billboard or banner | 30 ft (9 m) | 36 in (90 cm) |
Resolution
For print, export at 300 pixels per inch of printed size: a 2-inch code needs a 600-pixel PNG. SVG avoids the question entirely because it scales without loss.
Other things that matter more than size
- Contrast: dark code on a light background.
- Quiet zone: four modules of clear space on every side.
- Shorter content: a short link makes a simpler code you can print smaller.
- Flat surfaces: codes wrapped around bottles or creased packaging read poorly.
Frequently asked questions
What's the smallest QR code that will scan?
About 0.8 inch (2 cm) for a short link scanned up close. Below that, many phones struggle to focus.
Does a logo change the size I need?
Slightly. Codes with logos use the highest error correction, which adds modules. Go one size up to be safe.
Is bigger always better?
Up to a point. A huge code at close range won't fit in the camera frame. Size it for the expected distance.
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Updated November 10, 2026 by the Cuelark Team.