5 Common QR Code Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

QR codes are powerful tools, but only if they work correctly. A poorly implemented QR code can frustrate users, hurt your brand's reputation, and waste your marketing efforts. Fortunately, most QR code failures are caused by a few common, easily avoidable mistakes.

Whether you're a business owner, a marketer, or just creating a QR code for a personal project, avoiding these pitfalls will ensure your code is effective and user-friendly.

Mistake 1: The Code is Too Small

This is the most frequent reason a QR code won't scan. If a QR code is printed too small on a business card or flyer, a phone's camera can't capture enough detail to read it.

• How to Avoid It: As a rule of thumb, a QR code should never be smaller than 1 x 1 inch (2.5 x 2.5 cm) in print. When in doubt, print a test version and try scanning it from a realistic distance.

Mistake 2: Not Providing a Call to Action (CTA)

Simply placing a QR code on a poster with no explanation is a recipe for low engagement. Users need to know why they should scan your code. What's in it for them?

• How to Avoid It: Always include a short, clear call to action next to your QR code. For example:
• "Scan for our Menu"
• "Scan to Watch the Tutorial"
• "Scan to Get 15% Off"

Mistake 3: Linking to a Non-Mobile-Friendly Website

Remember, 100% of QR code scans happen on a mobile device. If your code links to a desktop website that requires users to pinch and zoom to read the text, you will lose them instantly.

• How to Avoid It: Before you generate your code, open the destination URL on your own smartphone. Is it easy to read and navigate? If not, you need to fix the destination page before you share your QR code.

Mistake 4: Poor Color Contrast

QR codes work because of the high contrast between the dark squares and the light background. A light grey code on a white background, or a dark blue code on a black background, may look stylish but will often fail to scan.

• How to Avoid It: Stick to the classic black-on-white for maximum reliability. If you must use colors, always use a very dark color for the code and a very light color for the background. Never use inverted colors (e.g., a white code on a black background), as many older scanners cannot read them.


Mistake 5: Placing the Code on a Difficult Surface

Where you place your code matters. A QR code on a highly reflective, glossy surface can be difficult for a camera to read due to glare. A code wrapped around a curved surface like a bottle can also be distorted and unscannable.

• How to Avoid It: Whenever possible, print QR codes on a flat, matte (non-glossy) surface. If you must place it on a curved object, ensure the code is on the flattest part of the curve.

By avoiding these five mistakes, you'll create QR codes that are not only scannable but also effective at achieving your goals.