Before you rely on a QR code, in an app you're building, a scanner you're checking, or a design headed to print, it's smart to test with a known code first. A purpose-made test QR image lets you confirm everything works without any surprises later.
Generate a Code With a Known Destination
Make a test code that points somewhere you control and recognize, using a QR generator. Because you know exactly what it should open, you can immediately tell whether your scanner read it correctly or misfired.
Testing a Scanner or App
Scan your known test code with the tool you're checking. If it opens the expected destination, the scanner works. If it doesn't, you've isolated the problem to the scanner rather than guessing whether the code itself was the issue.
Testing a Printed Design
For print, generate the code at the exact size and format you'll use, print a proof, and scan it in real conditions, the actual lighting, distance, and surface. This catches issues like a code printed too small or with too little contrast before a full run.
Testing Across Devices
Scanners vary, so test your code on several phones, ideally a mix of iPhone and Android. A code that reads on every device you try is one you can deploy with confidence.
FAQ
Common questions are answered in the FAQ section below.