How It Works

How QR codes work, and how to make one

Pick a QR code type, add your link or file, add your logo, and print a ready-made poster. Most people are done in about 5 minutes.

Create a QR code in 4 steps

From nothing to a printed QR poster in about 5 minutes

1

Choose Your Type

Pick from 19+ QR code types: URL, vCard, WiFi, PDF, menu, Smart Review and more.

2

Upload Your Content

Add a link, a menu, a PDF, your WiFi details or your contact info. Each type has its own short form.

3

Customize Design

Add your brand colors, your logo and a frame, so the code matches your business.

4

Print Your Poster

Make a print-ready poster with your code on it. Download it, print it, and put it where people will see it.

Static vs Dynamic QR Codes

Understanding the difference helps you choose the right type

Static QR Codes

The destination is encoded directly in the QR pattern. Once created, it cannot be changed.

  • Free to make, with nothing to renew
  • Works offline, no internet needed
  • Simple and reliable
  • Cannot be edited after creation
  • No scan tracking or analytics
  • Longer URLs make denser patterns

Dynamic QR Codes

The QR code points to a short KudoTaps link, which sends people on to your content. You can change where it goes at any time.

  • Update destination without reprinting
  • Scan counts and device types
  • Simpler pattern regardless of URL length
  • Best for menus, flyers and signs

The Scanning Experience

What your customers see when they scan

A phone scanning a QR code on a restaurant menu display

When customers scan your QR code, their phone opens your content: a menu, contact details, WiFi details or a web page. They use the phone camera, with no app to download.

Anatomy of a QR Code

What makes QR codes scannable

Position Markers

The three large squares help scanners quickly locate and orient the QR code regardless of angle.

Data Modules

The smaller black and white squares encode your actual data using a binary pattern.

Error Correction

Built-in redundancy allows QR codes to be read even if up to 30% is damaged or obscured.

Quiet Zone

The white border around the QR code helps scanners distinguish it from surrounding elements.

Popular Ways to Use QR Codes

See how businesses connect with customers

Restaurants & Cafes

Digital menus and an easy way to leave a review.

  • Menus you can update without reprinting
  • Collect Google reviews after dining
  • Promote daily specials and events

Retail Stores

Link the shelf to your website.

  • Product details and reviews
  • Exclusive in-store discounts
  • Connect to your online store

Service Businesses

Make it easy for customers to find, contact, and review you.

  • A Smart Review QR code for more Google reviews
  • Easy appointment booking
  • Share contact info instantly

Events & Marketing

Sign-ups, offers and scan counts for each piece of print.

  • Event registration and check-in
  • Track print ad performance
  • Contest and giveaway entries

Real Estate

Share property information and capture leads.

  • Virtual tour links on signs
  • Property details and photos
  • Easy contact with agents

Professional Networking

Share your details in one scan.

  • Digital business cards (vCard)
  • LinkedIn profile sharing
  • Portfolio and resume links

QR Code Best Practices

Simple rules so your code scans first time. Read the full QR code best practices guide.

Size Matters

Minimum 1 inch (2.5 cm) for close scanning. Add 1 inch for every 10 feet of scanning distance. Business cards need at least 0.8 inches.

High Contrast

Dark codes on light backgrounds work best. Maintain at least 70% contrast between foreground and background colors.

Test Before Printing

Scan with multiple devices in different lighting. Test from various distances before mass printing to ensure reliability.

Add a Call-to-Action

Don't assume people know what to do. Add text like "Scan for Menu" or "Scan to Get 20% Off" to encourage scanning.

Use Dynamic Codes

Change where the code goes without reprinting, and see how many people scan it.

Mobile-First Destinations

Most scans happen on phones. Ensure landing pages are mobile-optimized with fast load times and easy navigation.

Print once. Edit forever.

Make a dynamic QR code, print it, and change where it goes whenever you need to. Your first 3 dynamic QR codes are free.

Create your QR code See plans and pricing