QR Code Types Explained

Deep dives into each QR code content type — URL, WiFi, vCard, calendar, Bitcoin, and more. Encoding formats, compatibility, and best practices.

URL QR Codes: The Complete Guide

Everything about URL QR codes: encoding, best practices, UTM tracking, URL shortening, and common mistakes.

WiFi QR Codes: Share Network Credentials Instantly

How to create WiFi QR codes: the WIFI: URI scheme, security types, hidden networks, and placement strategies.

vCard QR Codes: Digital Business Cards That Work

Comprehensive guide to vCard QR codes: vCard 3.0 format, field encoding, size optimisation, and compatibility across devices.

Email QR Codes: Pre-filled Messages on Scan

Creating mailto: QR codes with pre-filled recipient, subject, and body. URL encoding, length limits, and client compatibility.

SMS QR Codes: One-Tap Messaging

Generate smsto: QR codes for SMS with pre-filled phone number and message. Carrier compatibility and character limits.

Phone Number QR Codes: One-Tap Calling

Creating tel: URI QR codes for instant calling. International format, country codes, and use cases from business cards to emergency …

Calendar Event QR Codes: Add Events With a Scan

Encoding iCalendar VEVENT data in QR codes: date/time formatting, time zones, recurring events, and cross-platform testing.

Bitcoin Payment QR Codes: BIP 21 URI Guide

BIP 21 bitcoin: URI format for payment QR codes. Address formats, amount parameters, and wallet compatibility.

Geographic Location QR Codes: Share Coordinates

geo: URI and Google Maps URL QR codes for sharing locations. Coordinate formats, maps app compatibility, and use cases.

WhatsApp QR Codes: Start Conversations Instantly

Creating wa.me deep link QR codes for WhatsApp. Pre-filled messages, international phone format, and business account integration.

App Store QR Codes: Cross-Platform Download Links

QR codes for app downloads: direct store links, smart redirects, Universal Links, and platform detection strategies.

Social Media QR Codes: Profile and Channel Links

QR codes for social media profiles: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, LinkedIn, and multi-platform link trees.

PDF QR Codes: Link to Documents

Linking QR codes to PDF documents: hosting options, file size considerations, and use cases for menus, manuals, and brochures.

MeCard vs vCard: Which Contact Format to Choose

Comparing MeCard and vCard QR code formats: data size, field support, device compatibility, and recommendations.

Plain Text QR Codes: Serial Numbers, Messages, and Raw Data

When and how to use plain text QR codes: serial numbers, internal identifiers, messages, and raw data encoding strategies.