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5 Tips for Designing QR Codes That Actually Get Scanned

ET

EverQR Team

Apr 5, 2026 · 3 min read
design qr codes tips branding

Your QR Code Is a First Impression

Most QR codes are boring black-and-white squares. That is a missed opportunity. A well-designed QR code catches the eye, reinforces your brand, and increases scan rates. Here’s how to do it right.

1. Use Your Brand Colors

Swap the default black for your brand’s primary color. Keep the background light for contrast. The key rule: your foreground color must be significantly darker than the background. Avoid low-contrast combinations like yellow on white.

2. Pick the Right Dot Style

EverQR offers six dot styles: Square, Dots, Rounded, Extra Rounded, Classy, and Classy Rounded. Each gives your code a different feel:

  • Square: Clean and professional
  • Dots: Modern and playful
  • Rounded: Friendly and approachable
  • Classy: Premium and sophisticated

Match the style to your brand personality.

A logo in the center of your QR code instantly tells people what they’re scanning. It builds trust and increases scan rates. Just make sure the logo doesn’t cover more than 30% of the code, or it might not scan reliably.

4. Size Matters

A QR code needs to be at least 2cm x 2cm (about 0.8 inches) to scan reliably from a normal distance. For posters and billboards, go much larger. The rule of thumb: the scanning distance should be no more than 10x the QR code’s width.

5. Always Test Before Printing

This seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people skip it. Scan your QR code on at least two different phones before sending anything to print. Test in different lighting conditions too.

Create Custom QR Codes

Try these tips right now with EverQR’s free generator. Pick your colors, choose a dot style, and download in PNG or SVG.

Ready to create your own QR codes?

Generate free static QR codes instantly, or start a 14-day free trial of EverQR Pro for dynamic codes with analytics.

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