QR Styler
Back to all posts
Design

QR Code Design Best Practices for 2023

Learn how to create QR codes that are both functional and visually appealing with these design best practices.

Alex Johnson
•
May 21, 2025
•
5 min read

QR codes have become an essential tool for businesses and individuals alike, providing a quick and easy way to connect the physical world with the digital. But creating a QR code that is both functional and visually appealing requires careful consideration of design principles.

1. Prioritize Scannability

The primary function of a QR code is to be scanned, so this should always be your top priority. Here are some tips to ensure your QR code is easily scannable:

  • Maintain adequate contrast between the QR code and its background
  • Ensure the QR code is large enough to be scanned from the intended distance
  • Avoid distorting the QR code's proportions
  • Test your QR code on multiple devices and in different lighting conditions

2. Choose the Right Error Correction Level

QR codes have built-in error correction capabilities, which allow them to be partially obscured or damaged while still being scannable. There are four error correction levels:

  • L (Low): 7% of codewords can be restored
  • M (Medium): 15% of codewords can be restored
  • Q (Quartile): 25% of codewords can be restored
  • H (High): 30% of codewords can be restored

If you plan to add a logo or design elements to your QR code, choose a higher error correction level (Q or H).

3. Customize with Brand Colors

QR codes don't have to be black and white. You can use your brand colors to make your QR code more visually appealing and on-brand. However, remember these guidelines:

  • Maintain high contrast between the QR code modules and the background
  • Avoid using light colors for the QR code modules
  • Test the colored QR code thoroughly to ensure it's still scannable

4. Add Your Logo (Carefully)

Adding your logo to the center of a QR code can increase brand recognition and make the code more visually appealing. However, it's important to:

  • Keep the logo relatively small (covering no more than 30% of the QR code)
  • Use a high error correction level (H is recommended)
  • Position the logo in the center of the QR code
  • Ensure the logo has a clear background or blends well with the QR code

5. Consider the Module Shape

The modules (the small squares that make up a QR code) can be customized to some extent. You can use rounded corners, circles, or other shapes instead of squares. This can give your QR code a unique look while still maintaining its functionality.

6. Add a Call to Action

A QR code by itself doesn't tell users what to expect when they scan it. Adding a clear call to action near your QR code can increase scan rates and set appropriate expectations. For example:

  • "Scan to visit our website"
  • "Scan for exclusive discounts"
  • "Scan to download our app"

7. Test, Test, Test

Before finalizing your QR code design, test it thoroughly on different devices, in different lighting conditions, and from different distances. This will help ensure that your QR code is functional for all users.

Conclusion

By following these best practices, you can create QR codes that are not only functional but also visually appealing and aligned with your brand. Remember, the primary goal is always scannability, so any design choices should enhance, not hinder, this functionality.