QR Code Size for Printing: What Size Should It Be?
A sizing chart, the 10:1 distance rule and the file settings your printer wants.
By MyQRGenerator team Updated 6 min read
Too small and a QR code won't scan; too big and it wastes space. The right size depends on two things: how far away people will be, and how much data the code contains.
The distance rule
A widely used rule of thumb is a 10:1 ratio: the scanning distance should be no more than about ten times the code's width. A code scanned from 30 cm should be at least 3 cm wide; one on a poster read from 2 m should be about 20 cm.
Recommended sizes
| Placement | Typical distance | Recommended width |
|---|---|---|
| Business card | 15–25 cm | 2–2.5 cm |
| Product packaging, labels | 15–30 cm | 2–3 cm |
| Flyer, menu, table tent | 30–50 cm | 3–5 cm |
| A4 / Letter poster | 0.5–1 m | 6–10 cm |
| Large poster, shop window | 1–3 m | 10–30 cm |
| Billboard, banner | 5 m+ | 50 cm+ |
These sizes include the quiet zone. Never go below about 2 cm, even for short content.
Data density changes everything
A short URL makes a version 2 code (25 × 25 modules); a full business vCard is typically version 10–12 (57 × 57 to 65 × 65). At the same printed width, the denser code has modules less than half the size. Increase the printed size roughly in proportion to the module count, or shorten the content. The generator shows the module count under the preview.
Module size
For close-range scanning, aim for each module to be at least 0.33 mm, and preferably 0.5 mm or more. Divide the printed width by the module count (including quiet zone) to check: a 2.5 cm code with 33 modules has 0.76 mm modules — comfortable.
Files and resolution
- Best: SVG or PDF. Vector output stays perfectly sharp at any size.
- Raster: at least 300 dpi at the final size. A 5 cm code at 300 dpi needs about 600 px; at 600 dpi, about 1200 px. MyQRGenerator snaps modules to whole pixels for crisp PNGs.
- Avoid JPEG for print — compression softens module edges.
- Use the PDF “Print size” option to get the exact physical dimensions on a single page or centred on A4/Letter.
Placement tips
- Put it where people naturally hold or look — not at knee height or above eye level.
- Keep it on a flat area; avoid folds, seams and tightly curved surfaces.
- Add a short call to action, like “Scan to see the menu”.
- Matte finishes scan better than glossy ones under bright lights.
Always order a proof and test it on real phones before a full print run.