Why codes fail in print
A QR code fails in print for boring reasons: it is too small, too low-contrast, or missing its quiet zone.
Almost none of these failures show up on screen, which is why they survive design review and die on the poster.
Size for scanning distance
As a rule of thumb, the code should be at least one tenth of the expected scanning distance, so a poster read from two metres needs roughly a twenty-centimetre code.
When in doubt, go larger. There is no downside to a code that scans instantly.
Respect the quiet zone
Keep a quiet zone of four modules of clear space on every side. Cramming the code against artwork is the most common cause of a failed scan.
Keep contrast high and dark-on-light. Inverted codes work on some scanners and fail on many others.
Error correction and logos
Raise error correction to level H when you place a logo in the centre, and always test-print before running a full batch.
Test on at least three devices, including one older phone, before signing off.
- QR codes
- Design
Frequently asked questions
- What size should a printed QR code be?
- Roughly one tenth of the scanning distance — about 2 cm for a business card and 20 cm for a poster read from two metres.
- Can I put a logo in a QR code?
- Yes, if you raise error correction to level H and keep the logo under about 30% of the code area.
