Printed QR Codes Not Working

Fix QR codes that work on screen but fail when printed.

Your QR code scanned fine on screen, but the printed version won't work. Print introduces variables that screens don't have.

Resolution

Problem: The QR code looks pixelated or blurry when printed.

Cause: Export resolution was too low. Screens display at 72-150 DPI, but print needs 300+ DPI.

Fix: Re-download at higher resolution. Better yet, use SVG—it scales perfectly to any size. See our download formats guide.

Size

Problem: The code got scaled too small when placing it in your design.

Minimum sizes:

  • 2cm × 2cm (0.8") – Absolute minimum
  • 3cm × 3cm (1.2") – Recommended

Fix: Make it bigger, even if you have to adjust your layout.

QR codes must be square. If you stretched or squished it while resizing, it won't scan reliably. Lock aspect ratio when scaling.

Contrast in Print

Colors look different printed than on screen. What had good contrast on your monitor might not print that way.

CMYK conversion: Print uses different color space than screens. Dark blues can turn purple, etc.

Paper color: Colored paper reduces contrast. White paper is safest.

Fix: Always print a test copy before bulk printing. Adjust colors if needed.

Ink and Paper Problems

Ink issues: Faded areas, streaks, or missing spots from low ink, dirty print heads, or draft settings.

Paper issues: Glossy paper creates glare. Textured paper distorts the pattern. Thin paper can bleed through.

Fix: Use quality print settings, check ink levels, prefer matte finish paper.

Production Problems

Cut into during trimming: Keep the QR code away from edges and add margin.

Lamination glare: Use matte lamination, not glossy.

Embossing: Don't emboss the QR code itself—it needs to be flat.

Tricky Materials

Fabric: Thread texture and stretch make scanning harder. Print larger than normal and test extensively.

Metal/plastic: Reflective surfaces cause glare. Use matte finishes.

Outdoor: UV fades ink over time. Use UV-resistant printing and protect with lamination.

Always Print a Proof

Before bulk printing:

  1. Print one copy
  2. Scan with both iPhone and Android
  3. Test in the lighting conditions where it'll be used
  4. Verify it works at the expected scanning distance

If using a print shop, request a physical proof and test scanning before approving the full run.

Common Questions

Why does it work on screen but not printed? Usually resolution (need 300 DPI) or size (too small when printed).

SVG or PNG for print? SVG is ideal—scales perfectly. PNG works if exported at 300+ DPI.

What's the minimum margin around the code? At least 4 modules (the small squares) of white space. More is better.

Laser or inkjet? Laser typically produces cleaner QR codes, but both can work with quality settings.