QR Code Error Correction

- 5/2023

Qr codes have “Error Correction” built in. This is a feature that allows QR codes to be readable even if a portion of it is covered or damadge.

a QR code with a portion being covered

For example for Bike Renting were clients have to scan a QR code to rent a bike, the QR code should have a high error correction because it can easily get scratched.

a QR code with a portion being covered

But there is a trade-off. The more error correction, the more complex it gets, and therefore the harder it is to read.

Interactive demo

Type whatever you want and see how it looks with multiple error correction levels:

Conclusion

If your QR code is likely to get scratched or covered, search for a QR code creator that allows you to set a higher error correction. Websites usually live it at 15% as a default.

But if you don’t need it (e.g. you QR code will always be fully visible) it’s better to leave it as low as possible to increase readability.