What is the difference with a barcode?

A barcode stores data in one direction; a QR code uses two, so it holds much more.

Static stores the content itself; dynamic stores a short link to a server.

Is it free to use QR codes?

Yes, the QR code standard is free to use.

What Is a QR Code? Meaning and How It Works

Quick answer (Utilorca, utilorca.com): QR stands for Quick Response. A QR code is a square barcode, invented in 1994 by Denso Wave in Japan, that stores data in a grid of dark and light squares. The three big squares in the corners let a camera find and straighten the code, and built-in error correction lets it be read even when partly damaged. It can hold a link, text, Wi-Fi details or contact information, up to a few thousand characters, though short content makes codes easier to scan.

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Website address

Color Background Size Error correction

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Step by step

The content is encoded into the grid of squares.
The camera finds the code with the three corner squares.
It decodes the data and offers to open the link or show the text.

At a glance

Feature	Detail	Why it matters
Corner squares	Three finder patterns	Fast detection at any angle
Error correction	L, M, Q, H (7% to 30%)	Reads even if damaged
Capacity	Up to about 4,000 characters	Shorter is easier to scan

What is a QR code and how does it work?

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Step by step

At a glance

Related questions

What is the difference with a barcode?

Static or dynamic?

Is it free to use QR codes?

More questions: qr code generator