How this guide is maintained
QRFlow guides are written against the current generator behavior, payload formatting rules, export paths, and print or scan checks in the product. They are meant to help users finish a QR workflow, not to exist as standalone SEO filler.
Use cases & print ideas
Matching pages that explain where this QR type works best before you open the generator.
Short answer: SVG usually scans better for print because it keeps edges sharp when resized, while PNG is fine for screen use if you export it large enough and avoid upscaling later.
Do SVG QR codes scan better than PNG?#
Usually yes for print. SVG keeps module edges sharp at any size, while PNG can soften or blur when you resize it in Canva, Figma, or a print workflow. For screen-only sharing, PNG is fine if you export it large enough and do not upscale it later.
Use SVG when…#
- You will print (business cards, menus, posters, signage).
- You will resize in design tools (Figma/Illustrator/Canva/InDesign).
- You need perfectly sharp module edges at any size.
Use PNG when…#
- You only need the QR for screens (web page, slides, emails).
- You will not resize much (or you export at a sufficiently high resolution).
The common mistake#
People download a small PNG (e.g. 256×256) and then scale it up for print. That introduces blur and aliasing. Blur reduces the scanner’s ability to detect module boundaries.
Print-ready rule of thumb#
Print: SVG (recommended)
If you must use PNG, export at high resolution (at least 1000px+) and do not upscale further.
Also make sure you keep enough margin (quiet zone) and good contrast. See: contrast + quiet zone guide.
Use 20-25 mm (0.8-1.0 in) for most business cards. Includes minimum size guidance for short URLs, larger sizing for vCards, quiet zone rules, and a card dimensions chart.
How to add a QR code to a business card (visiting card) in Canva: generate the right QR (vCard vs URL), download SVG/PNG, keep a quiet zone, and export for print.
Canva QR code generator: create a URL QR in Canva, or generate vCard/WiFi/social QR codes with QRFlow and upload — plus print-ready export tips.
Why quiet zone is non-negotiable, how to choose colors that scan, and what backgrounds (patterns, gradients) break QR detection.
Pick the right error correction level for print/screens/logos. Learn the trade-off: higher correction = denser QR = needs larger print.
How big should a QR be on posters and signs? Use a simple distance→size table, plus placement and glare tips for real-world scanning.
Quick answers
Common questions
Do SVG QR codes scan better than PNG?
Usually yes for print, because SVG stays sharp when resized while PNG can blur if you scale it up.
Why is SVG better for printing?
SVG keeps edges sharp at any size, preventing blur.
When is PNG enough?
For screen use or quick sharing where you will not resize.
What size should I print for reliable scans?
Use 20-25 mm for business cards and scale up for posters or distance scans.
Try it now
Generate QR codes locally in your browser — no uploads.