Free Tool
QR Code Size Calculator
Find the minimum QR code size for any scanning distance. Based on the industry-standard 10:1 distance-to-size ratio.
Scanning Distance
How far will people be when they scan?
Quick Presets
Recommended Size
Recommended QR Code Size
4.5 cm
4.5 × 4.5 cm
Minimum Size
3.0 cm
Absolute minimum (10:1 ratio)
Scanning Distance
30 cm
User-to-code distance
Recommendation
Standard range — most QR codes scan reliably at this distance.
Visual Preview
4.5 × 4.5 cm (scaled preview)
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QR Code Size Reference Guide
| Material | Typical Distance | Minimum Size | Recommended Size | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Card | 15 cm / 6 in | 1.5 cm / 0.6 in | 2.0 cm / 0.8 in | Use short URLs for simpler patterns |
| Flyer / Menu | 30 cm / 12 in | 3.0 cm / 1.2 in | 4.5 cm / 1.8 in | Works well for table-top materials |
| Poster (Indoor) | 1 m / 3.3 ft | 10 cm / 4 in | 15 cm / 6 in | High contrast essential at this range |
| Poster (Outdoor) | 2 m / 6.6 ft | 20 cm / 8 in | 30 cm / 12 in | Test in actual lighting conditions |
| Banner / Sign | 5 m / 16 ft | 50 cm / 20 in | 75 cm / 30 in | Use SVG for large-format print |
| Billboard | 10 m / 33 ft | 100 cm / 39 in | 150 cm / 59 in | Professional field testing required |
How QR Code Size Affects Scannability
The industry-standard rule for QR code sizing is the 10:1 distance-to-size ratio. If someone will scan from 30 cm away, the code should be at least 3 cm wide. We recommend adding 50% padding for reliability — so 4.5 cm for a 30 cm scanning distance.
Size is only one factor. Contrast, quiet zone (the empty space around the code), print material, and lighting all affect scan success. A perfectly sized code on reflective paper can still fail under glare.
For best results, use a dynamic QR code generator that produces short redirect URLs — shorter URLs create simpler QR patterns that scan faster at smaller sizes. Learn more about optimal print practices in our guide to QR code posters.
Tips for Better QR Code Scanning
- Use dark on light: Black code on white or light background gives the best contrast.
- Protect the quiet zone: Leave at least 4 modules of empty space around the code.
- Test before printing: Scan from the actual distance, on the actual material, with multiple phones.
- Use dynamic codes: Dynamic QR codes use shorter URLs, creating simpler patterns that scan better at smaller sizes.
- Add a clear CTA: A call to action near the QR code increases scan rates regardless of size.
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Generate a QR code at the right size, then track every scan with Scanely.