A QR code can turn a website address into a square code that people can scan with a smartphone. Instead of typing the full URL, a user can point a phone camera at the code and open the website.
This makes QR codes useful for businesses, websites, printed materials, menus, posters, business cards, and product packaging.
What is a website QR code?
A website QR code contains a URL. When someone scans it, the QR scanner reads the stored address and gives the user an option to open the webpage.
For example, a website owner can create a QR code for a homepage such as https://example.com. The code stores that address, so users can reach the page by scanning it.
The same process works for a specific webpage. You can create a QR code that points directly to an article, product page, contact page, or online tool.
How to create a QR code for a website
Creating a QR code for a website only takes a few steps.
First, copy the complete website URL you want to use. Make sure the address is correct before creating the code.
Next, open a QR code generator and choose the option for a website or URL.
Paste the website address into the URL field. Then generate the QR code.
After the code appears, scan it with your phone to make sure it opens the correct webpage.
Why should you test a QR code?
Testing is an important step before printing or publishing a QR code.
A small mistake in the website address can send users to the wrong page. A QR code that works on your computer should also be tested on a smartphone.
Open your phone camera or QR scanner and scan the code. Check that the correct webpage opens.
If the QR code will be printed, test the final printed version too. A code can become harder to scan if it is too small, blurry, or has poor contrast.
Can you create a QR code for any website?
You can generally create a QR code for any website URL that you want to share, as long as the destination is accessible and appropriate for the intended audience.
You can create codes for:
- Homepage URLs
- Blog articles
- Product pages
- Contact pages
- Online tools
- Event pages
- Registration pages
A separate QR code can be created for each URL.
Static QR codes and dynamic QR codes
There are 2 common types of QR codes: static and dynamic.
A static QR code stores the destination information directly inside the code. If the URL changes later, the existing code usually can't be edited to point somewhere else.
A dynamic QR code can use a changeable destination managed through a service. This can allow the destination to be updated without printing a new QR code, depending on the service being used.
For a simple website link that won't change, a static QR code can be enough.
How to make a QR code easy to scan
The design of a QR code affects how easily phones can read it.
Keep strong contrast between the QR pattern and its background. A dark code on a light background is usually easy for cameras to detect.
Leave enough empty space around the QR code. This area helps scanners recognize where the code begins and ends.
Avoid making the printed code extremely small. The right size depends on the scanning distance and where the code will be displayed.
For a poster viewed from several feet away, the QR code needs to be larger than one printed on a small business card.
Where can you use a website QR code?
Website QR codes can be placed on many types of physical material.
A restaurant can place one on a table so customers can open the digital menu.
A business can print one on a business card and send people to its website.
A store can put a QR code on product packaging and link customers to product information.
A website owner can also place a QR code on flyers, posters, brochures, receipts, event tickets, and other printed materials.
Can a QR code be used on social media?
Yes. A QR code can point to a social media profile or page if the platform provides a shareable URL.
For example, a business could create a QR code for its social profile and place it on a business card.
When a customer scans the code, the profile page opens in the browser or supported app.
Can you create a QR code for a specific article?
Yes. You don't have to use your homepage.
If you have an article at a URL such as https://example.com/article, you can create a QR code that points directly to that article.
This can be useful when promoting a particular piece of content through printed material.
For example, a printed guide could include a QR code that takes readers to a longer online version of the guide.
How to check a QR code before publishing it
Always scan the finished QR code before sharing it.
Check the URL carefully after scanning. Make sure the page loads correctly on a mobile device.
If the QR code is being printed, check the printed copy from the distance where users are expected to scan it.
Also make sure the code isn't covered by another design element, stretched out of shape, or placed on a background that makes the pattern difficult to see.
Common QR code mistakes
One common mistake is entering the wrong URL.
Another is making the QR code too small for the intended scanning distance. Low contrast can also cause problems.
Placing a QR code directly against a busy image can make it harder for cameras to recognize the pattern.
A simple design with enough empty space around the code is usually easier to scan.
Final thoughts
Creating a QR code for a website is a simple way to connect printed material with an online page.
Copy the correct URL, place it into a QR code generator, create the code, and test it with a smartphone before using it.
For businesses and website owners, a QR code can make a website easier to access from business cards, menus, posters, packaging, flyers, and other physical materials.