QR Code Size and Version Guide
Comprehensive guide to QR code versions (1-40), module counts, data capacity at each version, minimum print sizes for reliable scanning, and how to optimize QR code dimensions for different media.
Detailed Explanation
QR Code Size and Version Guide
QR codes come in 40 versions, each with a different module count and data capacity. Choosing the right version ensures your code is scannable while keeping it as compact as possible.
QR Code Versions
Each version increases the module grid by 4:
| Version | Modules | Data (EC Level M) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 21x21 | 14 bytes |
| 5 | 37x37 | 106 bytes |
| 10 | 57x57 | 271 bytes |
| 15 | 77x77 | 520 bytes |
| 20 | 97x97 | 858 bytes |
| 25 | 117x117 | 1,292 bytes |
| 30 | 137x137 | 1,732 bytes |
| 40 | 177x177 | 2,953 bytes |
The version is automatically selected based on the data length and error correction level. Shorter data produces a simpler, lower-version code.
Minimum Print Size
The minimum size depends on the scanning distance and the QR code version:
| Scanning Distance | Min Module Size | V1 (21x21) Min | V10 (57x57) Min |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 cm (phone) | 0.33 mm | 7 mm | 19 mm |
| 30 cm (handheld) | 0.50 mm | 10.5 mm | 28.5 mm |
| 1 m (poster) | 1.5 mm | 31.5 mm | 85.5 mm |
| 3 m (signage) | 5 mm | 105 mm | 285 mm |
Rule of thumb: The scanning distance divided by 10 gives the approximate minimum QR code width.
Resolution for Printing
QR codes should be generated as vector graphics (SVG) or high-resolution raster images:
- Print: Minimum 300 DPI. A 3cm QR code at 300 DPI = 354 pixels
- Screen: 72+ DPI is fine for digital displays
- Large format: SVG or PDF for scalability without pixelation
Module-Level Considerations
- Each module (the small square) must have sharp edges and uniform color
- Anti-aliasing should be disabled — QR modules are meant to be crisp binary squares
- The quiet zone (white border) around the QR code must be at least 4 modules wide
Optimizing for Size
To keep the QR code version low:
- Minimize data — Shorter URLs, abbreviated text, minified JSON
- Use lower error correction — Level L instead of H (when appropriate)
- Choose the right encoding mode — Numeric-only data is 3x more efficient than byte mode
- URL shorteners — Replace long URLs with short links
Common Size Mistakes
- Printing a V40 (177x177) QR code at business card size — too dense to scan
- Using Level H error correction for screen-only codes — unnecessarily large
- Forgetting the quiet zone — the code may not be detected by scanners
- Scaling a raster QR code image down — modules become blurry and unscannable
Use Case
This guide is essential for graphic designers preparing print materials, marketing teams creating billboard and poster campaigns, product teams designing packaging, and developers building QR code generation features who need to ensure their codes are reliably scannable at the intended viewing distance.