QR code size for printing: how big should it be?
The minimum printed QR code size is about 2 × 2 cm (0.8 in) for close, handheld scanning. For anything scanned from a distance, use the 10:1 rule: the code should be at least one-tenth of the scanning distance. Scanned from 3 m, print it at least 30 cm. Always keep the quiet-zone margin and export vector SVG so it stays sharp.
The 10:1 distance rule
Scannability depends on distance. As a rule of thumb, the code width should be at least 1/10th of the maximum scanning distance. This gives the camera enough resolution to read the modules.
| Scanning distance | Minimum code size |
|---|---|
| 30 cm (phone in hand) | ~3 cm (min 2 cm) |
| 1 m (table tent, flyer) | ~10 cm |
| 3 m (poster, wall) | ~30 cm |
| 5 m (banner) | ~50 cm |
| 10 m (billboard) | ~1 m |
Keep the quiet zone
The quiet zone is the empty margin around the code — at least four modules wide on every side. It is part of the QR standard; cropping it or crowding it with text is a common reason codes fail to scan.
Resolution and format
- Print at 300 DPI or higher for crisp modules.
- Prefer vector SVG — it has no fixed resolution and stays sharp from a sticker to a billboard.
- If you must use PNG, export it larger than the final print size, never smaller.
A few practical minimums
- Business card: 1.5–2 cm.
- Flyer / menu: 2–3 cm.
- Poster (A2/A1): 8–15 cm.
- Shop window / wall: 20–40 cm.
If a code still will not read at size, work through why a QR code is not scanning.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum size for a QR code?
About 2 × 2 cm (0.8 in) for close handheld scanning. Go larger for greater scanning distance using the 10:1 rule.
What is the 10:1 rule for QR codes?
The code width should be at least one-tenth of the maximum scanning distance. From 3 m away, print it at least 30 cm.
What resolution should a printed QR code be?
At least 300 DPI, or use a vector SVG which has no fixed resolution and stays sharp at any size.
How much margin does a QR code need?
A quiet zone of at least four modules on every side. Do not crop it or place text against the edge.