SW
Back to Blog

QR Code Types: URL, vCard, WiFi, Email and More Explained

QR codes are everywhere — restaurant menus, business cards, payment terminals, WiFi networks. But most people only use them for URLs. QR codes can encode much more than web links.


All QR Code Types You Can Generate


URL

The most common type. Scan to open any website. Tips:

  • Use URL shorteners for cleaner QR codes (shorter URLs = simpler QR patterns)
  • Test on different devices before printing
  • Track clicks by using UTM parameters

    • Text

    Display any text message when scanned. Use for:

  • WiFi passwords as plain text
  • Instructions or notes
  • Serial numbers and product codes
  • Emergency contact information

    • Email

    Pre-fills a complete email:

  • Recipient address
  • Subject line
  • Body text

    • The user just needs to press send. Perfect for contact forms, support inquiries, and feedback collection.


    SMS

    Pre-fills a text message:

  • Phone number
  • Message body

    • Use for text-to-donate campaigns, appointment confirmations, or quick contact options.


    Phone

    Directly dials a phone number. One scan and the phone app opens with the number pre-entered.


    WiFi

    The most underrated QR type. Users scan and connect automatically:

  • Network name (SSID)
  • Encryption type (WPA, WPA2, WEP, or none)
  • Password

    • No more typing complex WiFi passwords. Print one and put it on your router or guest welcome card.


    vCard (Contact Card)

    Scan to save a complete contact:

  • Name
  • Phone number
  • Email
  • Company
  • Website

    • Business cards with vCard QR codes save contacts in one scan instead of manual typing.


    Error Correction Levels


    QR codes include built-in error correction so they still work if partially damaged:

  • L (7%)**: Smallest QR. Good for clean digital display.
  • M (15%)**: Balanced. Default for most uses.
  • Q (25%)**: More resilient. Good for printed materials.
  • H (30%)**: Maximum recovery. Use when adding logos over the QR code.

    • Higher error correction creates larger QR patterns. Use H level if you plan to overlay a custom logo.


    Customization Options


    Our QR generator lets you:

  • Custom colors**: Change module (dot) and background colors
  • Add a logo**: Overlay your brand logo in the center
  • Adjust size**: 150px to 600px output
  • Download as PNG**: For digital and print use
  • Download as SVG**: For vector, infinitely scalable use

    • All QR code generation happens in your browser using the qrcode library. No data is sent to any server.

    ← Back to all articles