The 7 Best Free Qr Code Generators and How To Choose One Using Our Rule of 3

“Which is the best free QR Code Generator?” Or perhaps you’ve asked, “Is there a free QR Code generator with unlimited scans or customization options?” These are common questions on platforms such as Reddit and Quora, and it’s clear why. Today, everyone uses QR Code Generators – for marketing campaigns, booking meetings, personal projects and more.

If you’re a small business owner looking to pump your marketing, a student working on a creative project, or simply curious about QR Codes, this article will help you find the perfect free solution. We’ll list the factors to consider when choosing a free QR Code generator, highlighting the best free options available, including their key features and potential limitations.

At a glance: 7 best free QR Code generators along with a rating table

We tested these QR Code Generators, evaluating their security, user-friendliness, tracking features, and customization options. Each generator was given a score out of 5, with 5 being the best overall performance.

The 7 best free QR Code generators in 2024

1. The QR Code generator (TQRCG)

If you want a free QR Code generator without any strings attached and for small marketing campaigns, then TQRCG should be the first on your list. It’s simple, with a no-scroll layout that lets you create a QR Code from a single screen. 

With TQRCG, you can create a custom QR Code and add your brand logo and messaging to make a larger impact. While it provides unlimited scans, there’s a slight downside – prospects who scan your QR Code will see display ads.

What did we like?

• No limitation on scans.
• You can customize the QR Code using basic options such as color, font, size, and logo uploads.
• Track basic metrics such as daily scans and geo-locations.
• SOC® 2, HIPAA, and GDPR compliant (uses Uniqode’s security protocols)
• Lets you turn your URL, PDF, SMS, contact, product manual, or app into a QR Code.

Factors to think about

• Does not support bulk QR Code creation or API connections.
• Intrusive display ads.
• Provides limited customization compared to other options.

2. Uniqode’s QR Code generator

Uniqode is a highly trusted QR Code Generator used by top companies such as Nestle, Revlon, etc. With Uniqode, you can create unlimited free static QR Codes easily. They support 20+ different QR Code types, including location QR Code, Review QR Code, Vcard QR Code and more. Their QR Codes are incredibly reliable and secure. 

However, a significant drawback is that you can only create static QR Codes with the free version. If you want to try their advanced features like Analytics, dynamic QR Codes, and Auto design, you can sign up for a 14-day trial.

What did we like?

• Create Unlimited QR Codes
• Supports 20+ different QR Codes
• GDPR, SOC Type 2, and HIPAA Compliant
• Download the QR in your preferred format – SVG, JPG , PNG and more

Factors to think about

• While the free trial is great, the paid plans might be a bit pricey for some.

3. Canva’s QR Code generator

Popularly used by every agency, student, and corporate firm, Canva is a no-code design platform that recently added a free QR Code generator to its portfolio. It does not provide high-level features like tracking capabilities and security, but is a convenient option for those who already use Canva.

What did we like?

• Add QR Codes to your designs through its drag-and-drop dashboard.
• You can adjust the size and appearance of your QR Codes. You can also customize them to your brand specifics, such as logo, font, colors, etc.
• Make QR Codes that link to a specific URL (uneditable). However, if you want to edit the QR Code, you can integrate it with other QR Code generators such as Uniqode. 
• Use Canva’s templates to create visually appealing QR Codes.
• Create multiple QR Codes at once for efficiency.
• Save your QR Codes as images or PDFs.
• Access its font library with over 3,000 fonts.

Factors to think about

• Canva currently only supports static QR Codes.
• Customization options are basic, with only color and margin adjustments available.
• Once created, the linked URL cannot be changed.

4. QRCode Monkey

Next on the list is QRCode Monkey. It’s best for creating high-quality, customizable QR Codes that are perfect for print. No matter how long you plan to use your QR Code, it won’t expire.

With QRCode Monkey, you can also add a logo, change the shape, or experiment with different colors and gradients. Plus, with up to 30% error correction, your codes can withstand wear and tear.

If you’re running multiple marketing campaigns, QRCode Monkey’s bulk creation and campaign folder features come in handy.

What did we like?

• Easy to create static QR Codes.
• Allows basic customization such as color and shape.
• Provides error correction.
• Lets you add a logo to the QR Code for branding.

Factors to think about

• Limited features (no dynamic QR Codes or advanced analytics).
• No preview before creation.
• Limited design options.
• No PDF/EPS downloads.

5. QR Code Tiger

Next up is QRTiger. We like their customizable QR Codes, which can boost scans by up to 30%. Their free plan lets you create three active campaigns, and static QR Codes offer unlimited scans. However, dynamic QR Codes are limited to 100 scans.

You can upgrade to a paid plan to remove the QRTiger logo and track scans.

For advanced customization (available in the free trial), QRTiger’s custom QR Code API provides templates, data tracking, dynamic QR Codes, and bulk creation. This is especially appealing for brands using CRM software, as it enables uninterrupted integration.

What did we like?

• It’s an ad-free QR Code generator.
• Exceptional customer service.
• Lifetime validity.
• Create multiple QR Codes simultaneously.
• Track scans, users, and locations.
• GDPR and CCPA compliant.
• Customize shape, color, logos, etc., with the built-in template.

Factors to think about

• Existing QR Codes may have restricted design options.
• Some prospects might find the interface somewhat confusing.

6. Adobe QR Code generator

Like Canva, Adobe’s QR Code Generator is a handy tool for those familiar with the Adobe design suite. As a built-in feature within Adobe Express, it lets you add QR Codes to your designs smoothly. With basic customization options like adjusting size and color and the ability to link directly to your designs, it’s a convenient choice for one-off small-scale QR Code campaigns.

What did we like?

• Create QR Codes within the Adobe Express design environment.
• Customize the size and color of your QR Codes.
• Create static QR Codes that link to a specific URL.

Factors to think about

• While you can customize the size and color, options are limited.
• It doesn’t offer features such as tracking, dynamic QR Codes, or bulk creation.

7. Fotor’s QR Code generator

Last but not the least, Fotor’s QR Code generator comes with a user-friendly and simple dashboard. Without requiring sign-up, you can quickly create QR Codes for various purposes. For example, you can create QR Codes to link your websites, social media, or even your Wi-Fi networks.

With its diverse features and customization options such as color, shape, eye color, and pattern, you can create professional-looking QR Codes that align with your brand or personal style.

What did we like?

• Customization options.
• Logo integration.
• Design templates.
• Cross-platform compatibility.
• High scannability.

Factors to think about

• No immediate security protocols are in place which can lead to misuse of data.
• No tracking and analytics feature.

When to upgrade from a free QR Code generator?

If you’ve tried any of the free QR Code generators on our list, you’ve likely experienced firsthand how dynamic QR Codes can boost your marketing efforts. But to truly maximize their potential, it’s time to upgrade to a paid plan.

Why Invest in a Paid QR Code Generator?

1. Durability: Paid plans ensure your QR Codes never expire, keeping your marketing materials accessible for the long term.
2. Advanced Analytics: Get detailed insights into QR Code performance and optimize future campaigns with in-depth analytics.
3. Integrations: Connect your QR Code data with CRM systems, popular apps, and Google Analytics for tracking and analysis.
4. Template storage: Save and reuse frequently used QR Code templates to optimize creation and maintain brand consistency.
5. Bulk QR Code Generation: Create multiple QR Codes at once for efficient campaigns and easier scaling.
6. Multi-language support: Automatically adjust QR Code content for a global audience based on the scanner’s language settings.

Three factors to consider when choosing a free QR Code generator

While we’ve unveiled the free QR Code generators, we’d urge you to prioritize specific factors to select an option that suits your needs. Here are three critical considerations:

1. Security

• Verify that the QR Code generator uses encryption protocols such as GPDA, CCPA, MFA, and SSO to protect your and your prospects’ data.
• Review the generator’s privacy policy to understand how they handle user data and whether they comply with relevant regulations.
• Make sure the generator is free from malware or viruses that could compromise your system or data.

2. Customization options

• Look for generators that provide various customization features, such as changing the background color, the shape of the QR Code, pattern adjustments, etc.
• Include a CTA.
• Consider generators that let you include your logo or branding elements in your QR Codes.

3. Tracking capabilities

• Choose a generator that provides detailed analytics on QR Code scans, including scan count, location, and time.
• If applicable, look for generators that can integrate with your website or marketing tools to monitor conversions and measure the outcome of your QR Code campaigns.

Now that you know what you want, revisit your shortlisted free QR Code generators. They might seem similar at first, but there are hidden differences. Try them out to see which one fits you best. And hey, who knows? Your free plan might lead you to the perfect paid partner for years to come.