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QR code not scanning? A fast troubleshooting checklist

The real-world reasons QR codes fail (contrast, quiet zone, blur, density, glossy print) and the quickest fixes that work on iPhone/Android.

If your QR code doesn’t scan, it’s usually not “the QR generator” — it’s print/contrast/size/density. Here’s the fastest way to fix it.

Step 1: Confirm the payload is valid

  • For URLs, open the destination directly first (no redirects that block mobile).
  • For WiFi, verify SSID/password and encryption. See: WiFi format guide.
  • For vCard, keep fields minimal. See: vCard fields guide.

Step 2: Fix the “3 killers”

1) Not enough quiet zone (margin)
Keep a blank margin around the QR (at least 4 modules). Don’t crop it in Canva/Figma/Word.
2) Too small for the distance
For business cards: 20–25mm. For posters/menus: go larger. See: size guide.
3) Blur / low contrast / glossy reflections
Dark on light, sharp edges, avoid glossy laminate reflections, avoid busy backgrounds.

Step 3: Reduce density (if needed)

  • Use a shorter URL (remove long tracking params if you can).
  • For vCard, remove non-essential fields.
  • Print larger if the payload must be long.

Quick test routine

  1. Test on iPhone camera + one Android camera.
  2. Test under indoor lighting (not only your desk lamp).
  3. Test from the real scan distance (30–50cm for cards; 1–2m for posters).

If it still fails, regenerate with a larger size and download SVG (print sharp). See: SVG vs PNG guide.

Continue reading

← Previous
Static vs Dynamic QR codes: what to choose (and why scans fail)
Clear differences, when static is enough, when dynamic matters (editable destination, tracking), and how it impacts scan reliability and print size.
Next →
SVG vs PNG for QR codes: which one should you download?
When SVG is mandatory (printing), when PNG is fine (screens), and how resizing affects scan reliability.

Related guides

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When QR scans but the destination fails inside in-app browsers. Fix redirect chains, http/https issues, blocked links, and build a stable landing flow.
Detailed instructions on how to fix common issues with QR codes such as scan failures, blurry codes, and unrecognized codes.
Exact WIFI: payload format, what “Encryption” means, and how to avoid scan failures on iPhone/Android (special chars, hidden networks).
Exact mm/in recommendations, quiet zone rules, and print tips so your QR scans fast on real phones from typical distances.
Which vCard fields actually get saved on iOS/Android, what to keep minimal, and how to avoid bloating the QR for better scans.
When SVG is mandatory (printing), when PNG is fine (screens), and how resizing affects scan reliability.
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