QR Code Size for Print: The Complete Guide
The right QR code size for print depends on how far away people scan from. Get it right and your code works every time; too small and it fails.
The 10:1 distance rule
Make the code about one-tenth of the scanning distance. Use this as a quick reference:
| Use case | Scan distance | Min. code size |
|---|---|---|
| Business card | ~10 cm | 2×2 cm |
| Flyer / menu | ~30 cm | 3×3 cm |
| Poster | ~1.5 m | 15×15 cm |
| Billboard | ~10 m | ~1×1 m |
Best practices
- Keep a quiet zone (empty margin) of at least 4 modules around it.
- Export SVG for crisp scaling, or PNG at 300 DPI.
- Maintain high contrast — dark code on a light background.
- Shorten long URLs (or use a dynamic code) for a simpler pattern.
FAQ
What is the 10:1 rule for QR codes?
Scan distance should be about 10 times the code's width. A 3 cm code scans well from ~30 cm; a billboard viewed from 10 m needs a code roughly 1 m wide.
What's the minimum QR code size?
Around 2 x 2 cm (0.8 inch) for close-up scanning. Go larger if the code has a logo, heavy styling, or a long URL.
Should I export PNG or SVG for print?
SVG is best — it's vector and stays sharp at any size. If you use PNG, export at high resolution (300 DPI at final print size).