Web & Utilities
QR Code Size Calculator
How big should your QR code be? Enter the scan distance to get the recommended print size (the trusted 10:1 distance‑to‑size rule), in both cm and inches.
The 10:1 distance-to-size rule
The reliable rule of thumb for print is distance ÷ 10 = minimum code width. A poster scanned from 2 metres needs a code at least 20 cm wide; a business card scanned from 30 cm needs only ~3 cm. This calculator does the conversion and gives both cm and inches.
min width = scan distance ÷ 10
Don't forget the quiet zone
Every QR code needs a clear margin — the "quiet zone" — of at least 4 modules around it, or scanners struggle to lock on. Keep the background high-contrast (dark code on light background) and never stretch the code out of square.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the scan distance.
- Read the recommended print size.
- Verify it fits your data load.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the 10:1 rule?
A QR code should be at least 1 unit wide for every 10 units of scanning distance. Scanning from 100 cm away? Make the code at least 10 cm wide.
Does more data need a bigger code?
Yes. More data means more modules (squares), so each module gets smaller at a fixed size. For long URLs or lots of text, increase the size or shorten the data.
What is the 10:1 rule for QR codes?
A QR code should be at least 1 unit wide for every 10 units of scanning distance. To be scanned from 100 cm away, make the code at least 10 cm wide.
Does more data require a bigger QR code?
Yes. More data adds modules (the small squares), so at a fixed size each module shrinks and becomes harder to scan. For long URLs, increase the size or shorten the link.