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QR code generator API: generate QR codes programmatically (PNG/SVG)

Need a QR code generator API? Learn when you need an API vs a free online QR code generator, plus a simple approach to generate PNG/SVG programmatically for bulk workflows.

On this page
  1. When you actually need an API
  2. Option A: generate QR codes in your own code (no external API)
  3. Option B: build a simple internal QR endpoint
  4. API gotchas (scan reliability)

Recommended templates

URL QR Code
Turn any website link (URL) into a QR code instantly. Your data stays in your browser.
Business Card QR Code
Create a business card QR code (vCard) so people can save your contact details instantly. Also searched as a QR business card or digital business card QR code (plus visiting card / name card QR code in some regions).
WiFi QR Code
Let guests join your WiFi by scanning—no typing passwords.
YouTube QR Code
Convert a YouTube link to a QR code so people can watch a video, open a playlist, or subscribe instantly.
Instagram QR Code
Create an Instagram QR code for your profile and download PNG/SVG on web/desktop for print or sharing.
Google Maps QR Code
Scan to open a location or directions in Google Maps. Great for stores, events, and pickup.

People search “QR code generator API” when they need to generate QR codes from code: bulk creation, automation, or integration with internal systems. If you just need a few QR codes, the fastest route is a free online generator like QRFlow templates.

When you actually need an API#

  • You need 100+ QR codes (inventory, seats, coupons, labels).
  • You want a repeatable pipeline (CI, scripts, batch exports).
  • You need to generate SVG/PNG on the server for a design workflow.

If your input is a CSV, you may not need an API — use bulk QR code generator (CSV → ZIP).

Option A: generate QR codes in your own code (no external API)#

For many teams, the simplest “API” is just a library in your app or a small internal endpoint. Example (Node.js) using the same approach QRFlow uses:

import QRCode from "qrcode";

const text = "https://example.com";

// SVG for print
const svg = await QRCode.toString(text, { type: "svg", errorCorrectionLevel: "M", margin: 2 });

// PNG for sharing (data URL)
const pngDataUrl = await QRCode.toDataURL(text, { width: 512, errorCorrectionLevel: "M", margin: 2 });

Option B: build a simple internal QR endpoint#

  • Accept a payload (URL/vCard/WiFi/etc) and return SVG/PNG.
  • Cache common outputs (same input → same QR).
  • Don't log sensitive payloads (WiFi passwords, personal contact info) unless you absolutely must.

API gotchas (scan reliability)#

  • Short payloads scan easier (long URLs are more dense).
  • Use enough quiet zone, keep high contrast.
  • Print sizing matters: size calculator · scan fix guide

Continue reading

← Previous
Best free QR code generator online: what to look for (SVG/PNG)
Looking for the best free QR code generator online? Use this checklist: scan reliability, SVG/PNG downloads, local generation (privacy), static vs dynamic QR codes, and print sizing tips.

Related guides

Payloads
Exact WIFI: payload format, what “Encryption” means, and how to avoid scan failures on iPhone/Android (special chars, hidden networks).
Which vCard fields actually get saved on iOS/Android, what to keep minimal, and how to avoid bloating the QR for better scans.
Generate a QR code for your Wi-Fi network to allow guests to join without manually typing the password.
How to create a URL QR code, shorten long links, and keep scans reliable.
When a text QR code makes sense and how to keep it scannable.
Create a Google Maps QR code for a location or directions, choose the right link, and print tips for signage.

Quick answers

Common questions

Which QR format works best?
Use standard formats like URL, WIFI, vCard, or wa.me and keep the data short.
How do I keep QR content scannable?
Remove extra fields, shorten URLs, and print larger for dense data.
Try it now
Generate QR codes locally in your browser — no uploads.