Let’s guess why you’re here 🤔:
You want to use QR Codes for your business or personal use
You’re looking for the best QR Code generator to do that
But you’re overwhelmed by the dozens of options a Google search reveals
With so many options, which one should choose? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
We’ve tested, listed, and categorized six top QR Code generators to help you find the best one for your needs.
We’ll break down key features and considerations, guiding you to the best fit, whether you have basic needs or require advanced management at scale.
Table of contents
How to choose the best QR Code generator
For advanced and scalable QR Code creation
What to consider before choosing the best QR Code generator
How to choose the best QR Code generator?
To choose the best QR Code generator, consider why you’re using one in the first place. Start by identifying your specific requirements and select a QR Code generator that aligns closely with your goals.
For instance, to engage your audience with interactive marketing, you could prioritize features such as QR Code logo integration, color customization, and scan tracking for campaign analysis.
On the other hand, a basic QR Code generator might be all you need for mundane convenience, such as sharing contact information or website links.
To illustrate this better, we will follow Alex’s journey from a solo professional to a business owner. We will see how their needs grow from basic QR Code generation to advanced QR campaigns and which tools they could use in each growth step.
We’ve categorized the six best QR Code generators based on Alex’s evolving needs to highlight how different QR Code generators cater to different requirements scales:
For advanced and scalable QR Code creation
Category 1: Best QR Code generators for simple QR Code creation
As a salesperson, Alex wants to streamline their networking efforts. They need a straightforward tool to create QR Codes to share their contact information and website links. Alex’s focus is on making connections and sharing information efficiently.
Alex needs a tool for simple QR Code creation to complete most of their work. Here are the top QR Code generators for them for this purpose:
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The QR Code Generator and QR Code Generator Pro: Excels in user-friendliness and essential functionalities for basic to intermediate needs.
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QR Tiger: Leans towards user engagement with features such as coupons and contests. UI is slightly complex, and the free plan is limited.
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QR Monkey: Ideal for beginners or those needing static QR Codes with basic customization and don’t require advanced features.
Let’s explore these tools in detail.
Recommended QR Code generators:
1. The QR Code Generator
| 🔦 Highlights | Super easy interface; free static codes; free dynamic codes (with ads);essential customization and analytics. |
| 💲 Pricing | Freemium plan; paid plans start at $5/month. |
The QR Code Generator (yes, that’s the name!) could be your go-to tool for simple QR Code generation with every customization option and analytics you need.
An intuitive, single-view interface provides everything you need to start creating and using QR Codes. The hyper-focused tool is perfect for individual professionals and small businesses that need straightforward yet effective QR Codes.
Pros
Freemium plan: You can create static codes without signing up. To try The QR Code Generator’s core functionalities (static and dynamic codes with customization and analytics) at no cost, you have to sign up.
Free dynamic QR Codes: Upon signing up, you get two free dynamic codes, though they come with ads. (You must upgrade to a paid plan to remove ads.)
Branding: You can customize QR Codes with ready-to-use templates, styles, and colors. There is also an option to add logos for dynamic codes.
Real-time data: Get valuable insights into scan performance with weekly reports on total scans, unique scans, scan locations, and device types.
Customer support: Hands-on and timely.
Multi-user collaboration: Paid plans support up to five users so that you can invite your team to create and manage e QR Codes. You can also add users and QR Codes at an additional cost.
Short URL: Available for dynamic QR Codes.
Cons
Ads: The freemium plan includes ads.
Missing features: Bulk QR Code generation and API integration are unavailable, limiting large-scale campaigns and automation.
Pricing
Freemium plan: No paywall for immediate use.
Paid plans: Start at $5 per month (Essential plan). The Advanced plan is $12.5/month, and the Professional plan is $37.5/month, all billed annually.
Standout feature
The QR Code Generator has a highly intuitive user interface. All options are laid out on the homepage, minimizing navigation.
Its ease of use, basic features, and affordability (since it’s freemium) make it ideal for one-off campaigns with immediate and temporary needs.
2. QR Code Generator Pro
| 🔦 Highlights | Easy interface; essential customization and analytics; bulk creation and API. |
| 💲 Pricing | Free trial; paid plans start at $5/month. |
QR Code Generator Pro is an easy-to-use solution for scaling marketing campaigns with bulk QR Code creation and essential customization options. It is suitable for individuals and small to medium businesses.
Pros
Free trial: Sign up for a 14-day free trial to test the platform’s capabilities.
Customization: Add brand colors, CTA, and logos with ample customization options.
QR Code metrics: Track the performance of QR Code campaigns by location, number of scans, and unique scans.
Collaboration: You can add up to five members on the dashboard, each with different access levels.
Short URL: Shorten longer QR Code preview URLs.
Bulk QR Codes: Bulk creation features save time for large-scale campaigns, with the ability to organize QR Codes into different folders for easy navigation.
API requests: Automate QR Code creation, management, and analysis with API requests.
Cons
Learning curve: Interpreting the QR Code scan data from its dashboard can take some time.
Dynamic QR Codes: You can only create two dynamic QR Codes at a time in the free version; additional dynamic QR Codes require a paid plan.
Pricing
Free plan: Offers a free forever plan where you can create up to two codes.
Paid plans: Start at $5 per month (Starter plan). The Advanced plan is $12.5/month, and the Professional plan is $37.5/month, all billed annually.
Standout feature
QR Code Generator Pro excels with its comprehensive suite for easily sharing and tracking customizable QR Codes.
It is ideal for businesses to use QR Codes extensively in their marketing campaigns.
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😵💫Decision dilemma? Here’s help! Both The QR Code Generator and QR Code Generator Pro offer competitive features, which could make it difficult to choose. But here’s the clarity you need:
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Close Contenders:
3. QR Tiger
| 🔦 Highlights | Engagement features (coupons, contests); landing pages, bulk creation, and API (paid plans). |
| 💲 Pricing | Free plan with limited features; paid plans start at $7/month. |
QR Tiger is for businesses seeking to boost engagement through interactive QR Code experiences. The platform strongly emphasizes branding capabilities in QR Codes.
Features such as digital coupons, loyalty programs, and embedded contests can motivate users to scan codes, making it ideal for increasing brand loyalty and creating campaign buzz.
Pros
Focus on engagement: You can create interactive, ready-to-use QR Codes with features such as coupons, loyalty programs, and contests to boost user engagement.
Landing page builder: You can design custom landing pages (paid plans) to enhance user experience and capture leads.
Bulk generation and API: Efficiently create multiple QR Codes simultaneously for large-scale campaigns; easy integration with APIs and shopping cart functions (paid plans).
Analytics: You can expect valuable insights into scan data and user demographics (paid plans).
Cons
Complex UI: Simpler interfaces of The QR Code Generator or QR Code Generator Pro might be better for purely functional QR Codes.
Limited free plan: Upgrading unlocks advanced engagement features such as landing page builders and contests. Additionally, the free plan codes show ads and the QR Tiger logo.
Mobile usability: QR Tiger is not user-friendly when creating QR Codes on mobile devices.
Pricing
Freemium plan: Available at no cost with basic features.
Paid plans: Start at $7 per month (Regular plan). The Advanced plan is $16 per month, the Premium plan is $37 per month, and the Professional plan is $89 per month. A customizable enterprise plan is available (contact their sales team for specific pricing details). You can choose to bill monthly or annually.
4. QR Monkey
| 🔦 Highlights | Free static codes; some customization. |
| 💲 Pricing | Free for static codes; paid plans for dynamic codes (same as QR Code Generator Pro). |
QR Monkey is a user-friendly QR Code generator focused on static QR Code creation. This platform is perfect for beginners or those with one-time needs.
You can easily create and download static QR Codes for free. You can sign up for a free trial or a paid plan to get dynamic QR Codes, which redirects you to QR Code Generator Pro.
Pros
Customization options: Choose from logos, fine-tune the QR Code’s look with pre-built templates, and use a slider to adjust the downloadable file size—all without a trial.
Error correction: The free version includes a minimal error correction feature, allowing QR Codes to work with some minimal damage.
Static QR Code types: Offers a wide range of static QR Codes such as SMS, text, vCard, WiFi, etc.
Bulk creation and editing: Available with paid plans, along with scan statistics.
Cons
Feature limitations: It lacks in-depth analytics and engagement functionalities offered for free by other tools like The QR Code Generator. You can only create static codes for free. You need a paid plan for dynamic QR Codes, folders, and performance tracking.
Cluttered interface: The user interface can be improved as it’s cluttered.
Pricing
Free plan: Create static QR Codes for free.
Paid plans: Upgrade to paid plans for dynamic codes (to access editing and scan data). Since QR Code Generator Pro has acquired QR Monkey, the pricing options are the same as those for QR Code Generator Pro.
🎁 Bonus: Best QR Code generator within your design workflow
If you’re a designer who wants the ease of creating and embedding QR Codes within your design ecosystem—such as Adobe or Canva—there’s some good news. Two of the world’s most popular design tools, Canva and Adobe, offer built-in QR Code generators. Though they severely lack the features of the dedicated solutions, they might still be convenient for some.
Canva
Canva is known for its user-friendly interface and ample design elements. They have a similar workflow to incorporate QR Codes into designs from the workspace. Using Canva’s built-in QR Code generator, you can choose the QR Code element, input your desired URL, and customize the colors to match your design. While customization options are limited, this tool can be practical in incorporating QR Codes into flyers, presentations, or social media graphics without leaving the Canva environment.
Pros:
Free: Offers unlimited static QR Code generation without a paid subscription.
Easy-to-use interface: Known for its user-friendly interface and drag-and-drop functionality.
Integration with Canva design tools: You can use other Canva design tools to create visuals with QR Codes.
Cons
Limited features: Only generates static QR Codes (no dynamic codes).
No tracking: Doesn’t offer scan tracking or analytics.
Limited customization: Even with a paid subscription, customization options are somewhat limited.
Adobe Express
Like Canva, Adobe Express offers a built-in QR Code generator. You can create QR Codes for various purposes, personalize them with your brand colors, and seamlessly integrate them into your design projects on Adobe (and elsewhere). While both tools cater to basic needs, dedicated QR Code generators might be necessary for advanced features such as bulk generation or in-depth analytics.
Pros:
Free: Offers unlimited static QR Code generation without a paid subscription.
Customization: Allows changing QR Code colors and adding logos (with a paid subscription).
Integration with Adobe Express: Seamless integration with other Adobe Express design tools for creating social media posts or flyers with QR Codes.
Cons:
Limited features: Only generates static QR Codes (no dynamic codes that can be updated later).
No tracking: Doesn’t offer scan tracking or analytics.
Limited customization (free plan): Free plan only allows basic color changes.
😵💫 Decision dilemma? Here’s help!
- Choose Adobe Express if you need basic QR Code customization with your existing Adobe subscription and plan to integrate QR Codes into other Adobe Express design projects.
- Choose Canva if you already use Canva for other design projects and want a unified workflow within Canva.
However, should you require more features like dynamic QR Codes, scan tracking, and extensive customization, neither tool is a clear winner. Consider services dedicated to QR Code generation, which typically offer more advanced features and analytics for a fee.
Category 2: Advanced and scalable QR Code generators
Back to Alex.
As their business grows into a large enterprise, their requirements become more complex. Now, they need a scalable solution to handle high volumes of QR Codes, integrate with other business systems, and provide advanced security features.
For advanced QR Code usage, Alex can consider the following top QR Code generators:
- Uniqode: Ideal for large enterprises with high-volume QR Code needs, advanced security, and in-depth analytics.
- Flowcode: User-friendly with essential campaign tools, but scalability might be limited; good for creating smaller batches of QR Codes.
Recommended QR Code generator:
5. Uniqode
| 🔦Highlights | Unmatched scalability, security, customization, and analytics for managing high-volume QR Code campaigns across your organization. |
| 💲Pricing | Free 14-day trial; paid plans start at $5/month (limited features) and scale with your needs. |
Uniqode is well-known as an enterprise-level QR Code management platform for businesses of all sizes.
Offering extensive customization, tracking capabilities, and integration options, Uniqode streamlines QR Code management for high-volume campaigns and complex workflows.
Pros
Extensive customization: You can customize QR Codes with logos, brand colors, and templates for a professional look.
In-depth analytics: Track QR Codes for scan location, time, and user devices; export data in CSV and PDF formats. Integrate with Google Analytics for deeper insights.
Bulk QR Code generation: You can generate thousands of unique QR Codes in one go, which is perfect for large campaigns.
Security: Encryption, password protection, and multi-factor authentication safeguard sensitive information. The platform is SOC 2® Type 2 and GDPR compliant.
Customer support: You get assistance from a customer support team within minutes. Reviewers have praised their customer support on G2.
API integration: Integrate with existing enterprise systems such as Slack, Canva, and Salesforce for automated QR Code creation, real-time data exchange, and uninterrupted workflows.
Cons
Limited starter plan features: Starter plan lacks GPS tracking and bulk creation features.
No free forever plans: A 14-day free trial period is available.
Pricing
Free plan: Try everything free for 14 days. After that, buy a plan to continue exploring the product.
Paid plans:
- Starter Plan: $5/month for individuals (3 QR codes, 1 user seat).
- Lite Plan: $15/month for individuals with advanced requirements (50 QR codes, 1 user seat).
- Pro Plan: $49/month for businesses with extensive needs (250 QR codes, 1 user seat).
- Plus Plan: $99/month for larger teams (500 QR codes, custom user seats).
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing is available for enterprise businesses (unlimited QR codes).
Standout feature
Uniqode stands out for its unmatched scalability, security features, and comprehensive analytics.
It is the ideal choice for managing QR Code campaigns across entire organizations.
Close contender:
6. Flowcode
| 🔦Highlights | Great design options, ideal for creating visually appealing, branded QR Codes; good for generating smaller batches of codes. |
| 💲Pricing | Free plan (with limited codes). Paid plans start at $5/month and are slightly more expensive for similar features . In higher tiers, scans and customization are limited. |
Flowcode is a versatile QR Code generator for businesses of all sizes. It has a user-friendly interface for businesses requiring extensive branding options, as well as omnichannel campaign capabilities.
With a focus on branding and user experience, Flowcode provides custom designs and fast scanning to engage customers across various channels. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses seeking visually appealing QR Codes aligned with their brand identity.
Pros
Branding focus: Extensive design options and logo integration for visually appealing QR Codes.
Affordable plans: Offers more affordable pricing plans compared to other enterprise-focused options.
Detailed analytics: Provides detailed scan analytics, such as device, day of the week, time of day, and date, for deeper insights on QR Code scans.
Campaign management: This company offers basic campaign management tools, such as link shortening and scan tracking, for effectively managing and tracking QR Code campaigns.
Mobile-first navigation: Ensures easy navigation and a smooth user experience for those scanning your QR Codes on mobile devices and tablets.
Cons
Limited scalability: Bulk generation capabilities meet the high-volume needs of larger enterprises.
Basic security features: Lacks advanced encryption and access controls compared to some competitors.
Limited API access: While Flowcode integrates with major platforms, advanced automation through custom integrations might be restricted.
Advanced features require upgrade: Some advanced features, such as campaign scheduling or UTM parameters, require upgrading to higher-priced plans.
Learning curve: Users might initially find the tool challenging to understand as the feature range may require exploration to grasp its full potential.
Pricing
Free plan: Offers a free forever plan where you can create up to two codes.
Paid plans:
- Pro Plan: $5/month for individuals (10 QR codes, 1 user seat).
- Pro Plus Plan: $25/month for professionals (50 QR codes, 1 user seat).
- Growth Plan: $250/month for growing businesses (500 QR codes, up to 5 seats).
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing is available for companies, based on specific needs.
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😵💫Decision dilemma? Here’s help! Uniqode and Flowcode are both enterprise-focused QR Code management platforms. Both are pure-players in the field and are built for large-scale QR Code management. But if you had to choose one over the other, choose:
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Considerations for Choosing the Best QR Code Generator
As Alex’s journey illustrates, the right QR Code generator depends on the specific needs at each stage of their business growth. Here’s a quick summary to help you choose:
Individuals and small businesses
Look for tools such as The QR Code Generator and QR Code Generator Pro that offer essential to intermediate features, including QR Code customization and tracking.
Growing enterprises
Opt for solutions such as Uniqode that offer the right proportion of scalability, security, customization, and analytics, catering to smaller and larger business needs.
Here’s a checklist of the selection criteria you can go through to choose a good QR Code generator:
| Item | Reason | Checklist |
| User-friendly workflow | Choose a generator with a simple interface and minimal learning curve. | ✅ |
| Customization options | Look for options to integrate your logo, brand colors, CTAs, frames, etc., for a professional look. | ✅ |
| Real-time data insights | Select a tool that tracks scan location, time, and user device type to measure campaign performance. | ✅ |
| Scanability suggestions | Choose a generator that analyzes your QR Code and suggests improvements for optimal readability, even with customizations. | ✅ |
| Dynamic and static QRs | Ensure the tool can generate dynamic (editable and trackable) and static QR Codes to suit your needs. | ✅ |
| API access | Opt for a generator that integrates with enterprise systems for automated QR Code generation and real-time data exchange. | ✅ |
| Advanced security | Look for features such as encryption, password protection, and access control. | ✅ |
| Variable data management | Choose a tool to personalize each QR Code within a bulk batch for streamlined data collection. | ✅ |
| Customer support | Make sure there is reliable and responsive customer support to address any issues or queries. | ✅ |
Choosing the right QR Code generator is crucial for using QR Codes in your marketing and business strategies. Use this guide and the selection criteria checklist to choose the best tool for your business needs.
If you want an easy-to-use QR Code generator with essential customization options and scan data, try The QR Code Generator for free today! Enjoy the free version as long as you like, and upgrade whenever you want to!
FAQs
1. What is a QR Code generator?
A QR Code generator is a tool for creating QR Codes, which are two-dimensional barcodes that can be scanned using a smartphone or QR Code reader. These codes can store various types of information, such as URLs, contact details, or text, and provide a quick and easy way to share data.
2. Free vs. Paid QR Code generators: Which is right for me?
The choice between a free QR Code generator and a paid one depends on your needs. Free QR Code generators are great for basic use, such as creating QR Codes for URLs or contact information. Paid QR Code generators offer advanced features such as customization (colors, logos), analytics (tracking scans), and enhanced security. A paid solution might be better if you need more professional and versatile options.
3. Are QR Code generators safe?
Yes, QR Code generators are generally safe to use, especially well-known and reputable ones. However, be cautious when entering sensitive information and avoid unknown or suspicious websites. Always use a trusted QR Code generator to ensure your data’s safety and privacy.
4. What are some creative ways to use QR Codes?
QR Codes can be used in various creative ways, such as:
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Linking to your website or social media profiles on business cards.
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Embedding custom QR Codes in marketing materials to provide additional information or special offers.
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Creating interactive menus for restaurants.
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Adding them to product packaging for instructional videos or usage tips.
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Using them in event invitations for easy RSVP and event details.
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Integrating them into classroom activities for quick access to educational resources.
