QR code not scanning? How to fix it
Most scanning problems come from the design or the print, not the phone. Work through these causes in order.
Design problems
Low contrast is the most common cause: pale colours, a gradient that fades too far, or a busy photo behind the code. Keep the squares clearly darker than the background. Light squares on a dark background also confuse some older scanners.
A logo that is too big, or one that covers a corner square, removes too much of the pattern. Missing margins are another: text or a frame drawn right up against the code stops many phones finding its edges.
Print and placement problems
A code that is too small for the scanning distance, printed on glossy paper that reflects light, curved around a bottle, or blurred by a low-resolution file will be hard to read. Print vector files, use a matte finish where you can, and keep codes on flat surfaces.
Very long content makes a dense pattern. Use a dynamic code so the pattern only holds a short link.
Link problems
If the phone reads the code but nothing useful opens, the problem is the link: a typo, a page that was moved, or a dynamic code that its service has turned off. Scan it, read the address, and open it in a browser to see what happens.
A quick check before printing
The generator here checks every design with a real QR reader as you edit and tells you if it scans well, needs to be printed large, or may fail.
- 1Look for a "Scans well" result under the preview.
- 2Print one copy at the real size.
- 3Scan it with an iPhone and an Android phone from the real distance.