QR Code Types

The most common QR code type. When scanned, it opens a webpage in the user's browser. Perfect for linking to websites, landing pages, product pages, social media profiles, or any online resource. The encoded URL is baked into the printed image—if you need to change the destination later without reprinting, use a dynamic QR code that redirects through an editable short link. Shorter URLs produce simpler patterns that scan more reliably at small print sizes; aim for HTTPS and test the link on mobile before you commit to a print run.

Display text content directly when scanned. The text appears on the user's screen without requiring internet access. Ideal for short messages, instructions, codes, or any information that doesn't need a web link. Because the text lives inside the QR image itself, it cannot be updated after printing—regenerate and replace the label if the content changes. Longer messages increase module density; keep copy under 300 characters when possible so the code stays scannable at wallet-card size.

Connect devices to a WiFi network automatically when scanned. The QR code stores the network name (SSID), password, and encryption type (WPA2 or WPA3 on modern routers). Users scan once and their phone joins the network—guests never need to retype a long password or ask which network to pick. iOS and Android both support the standard WIFI: string format, though you should test on each platform before laminating a sign. If you rotate the WiFi password, you must print a new code; the old one will not update on its own.

Share contact information that can be saved directly to the phone's address book. vCards can include name, phone numbers, email, physical address, company, job title, website, and notes—most scanners prompt a one-tap "Add Contact" that fills every field automatically. More fields mean a denser QR pattern, so include only what recipients actually need on a standard business card. For contacts that change frequently (new phone number, role change), a URL to an always-current profile page may be easier to maintain than reprinting vCards.

Open the user's email app with a pre-filled recipient address, and optionally a subject line and message body. Great for making it easy for customers to reach you or for collecting feedback. The mailto: link only composes the message—the user still taps Send, so it works offline for drafting but needs connectivity to deliver. Pre-filling a subject like "Support request from [product]" helps your team triage inbox traffic. Keep body text short; very long pre-filled bodies can exceed what some mobile clients handle cleanly.

Initiate a phone call when scanned. The user's phone dialer opens with the number pre-filled, ready to call. Ideal for businesses wanting to make it effortless for customers to reach support or sales. Use international E.164 format (e.g., +1 for US numbers) so travelers and visitors dial correctly without editing the number. The scan does not place the call automatically—the user confirms with one tap, which avoids accidental pocket dials. Pair the code with visible business hours so callers know when someone will answer.

Open the messaging app with a pre-filled phone number and optional message text. Users can send the message with one tap. Useful for opt-ins, voting systems, or quick customer communication. Pre-fill a unique keyword in the body (e.g., "JOIN SUMMER") so you can identify which poster or table tent drove the signup. SMS marketing has legal requirements in many regions—disclose what subscribers receive and honor opt-outs. Test on both iPhone (Messages) and Android (default SMS app) because behavior varies slightly between platforms.

Open a maps application showing a specific location. The QR code stores latitude and longitude coordinates or an address. Perfect for helping people find your business, event venue, or meeting point. Google Maps URLs tend to be the most reliable cross-device option—geo: coordinates work on many phones but can behave differently across map apps. The scan itself does not need internet, but loading turn-by-turn directions does. Print the street address in plain text next to the code as a fallback for visitors whose map app fails to open.

Add an event to the user's calendar app. The QR code can include event title, date/time, location, and description. Great for conferences, appointments, or any scheduled event you want attendees to remember. Dates must use a precise timezone (UTC offset or TZID) or attendees in other regions may see the wrong hour. Most phones import the event with one confirmation tap—no account signup required. If the schedule slips after you've printed flyers, you cannot edit a static calendar QR; issue a new code or link to a live schedule page instead.

Share cryptocurrency wallet addresses for receiving payments. The QR code encodes the wallet address and optionally an amount. Supported by most crypto wallets for easy, error-free transactions—scanning avoids the typo risk of copying a 34-character address by hand. Always label which coin or network the address belongs to (Bitcoin mainnet vs. Ethereum, etc.); sending to the wrong chain loses funds permanently. Fixed-amount codes are convenient for priced items but remember crypto prices fluctuate—many merchants display a fiat equivalent at checkout time.