Free QR code generator for URLs, files, contacts and more
Ekly is a free online QR code generator that creates QR codes for any content in seconds. Generate QR codes for website URLs, plain text, phone numbers, email addresses, PDF files, images, videos, and vCard contacts. No account is needed to get started and there is no limit on how many codes you can generate.
Every QR code is generated entirely in your browser. Your data is not sent to any server for standard QR types including URL, text, phone, and email. File-based QR codes upload the file securely and generate a short link that the QR code points to, with files automatically deleted after 30 days.
QR code generator for URLs and websites
The most common use for a QR code is linking to a website. Paste any URL into the URL field and your QR code appears instantly in the preview. You can download it as a PNG for digital use or as an SVG for print. SVG files scale to any size without losing quality, which makes them the correct format for posters, business cards, packaging, and any printed material where the QR code may be reproduced at different sizes.
For better scan performance on printed materials, consider using a short link from Ekly instead of a long URL. A shorter URL encodes into fewer modules in the QR code, which produces a simpler, cleaner pattern that scans faster and more reliably, particularly on lower quality prints.
PDF to QR code converter
Upload any PDF file and Ekly generates a QR code that links directly to it. This is useful for sharing menus, brochures, product sheets, instruction manuals, and any document you want people to access by scanning rather than typing a URL. Supported file types include PDF, JPG, PNG, WebP, MP4, WebM, MP3, WAV, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Files up to 50MB for documents and up to 100MB for video and audio are accepted. All uploaded files are automatically deleted after 30 days.
vCard QR codes for digital business cards
A vCard QR code encodes your contact information directly into the code. When someone scans it, their phone gives them the option to save your contact details immediately without typing anything. Fill in your name, organisation, job title, phone number, email address, website, and address, and Ekly generates the QR code instantly. This is a practical replacement for traditional business cards and works on any modern smartphone without requiring any app to be installed.
Barcode generator for retail and logistics
In addition to QR codes, Ekly generates industry-standard barcodes in three formats. Code 128 is a general-purpose barcode format that accepts any combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and is widely used in logistics, shipping, and inventory management. EAN-13 is the standard barcode format for retail products sold in most countries outside North America, requiring a 12-digit number with a check digit calculated automatically. UPC-A is the standard format for retail products sold in the United States and Canada, requiring a 12-digit number. Download barcodes as PNG or SVG for use in label design software, packaging artwork, and print files.
Bulk QR code generator from CSV
When you need to generate many QR codes at once, the bulk generator handles up to 1000 codes in a single batch. Upload a CSV file containing your URLs or values, or paste values directly one per line. Select the code type, click generate, and all codes download as a ZIP file containing individual PNG images named after each value. Bulk generation is available with a free Ekly account and requires no credit card.
Custom colors and logo overlay
Customise the foreground and background colors of any QR code to match your brand. Use the color pickers to select any color combination. Keep sufficient contrast between the foreground and background to ensure reliable scanning -- dark foreground on a light background always works. You can also add a logo image to the center of any QR code. Adjust the logo size as a percentage of the total code area and choose between a square or circular logo shape. QR codes have built-in error correction that allows them to remain scannable even with a logo overlay, provided the logo does not cover more than approximately 30 percent of the code area.
Where QR codes are used
Restaurants and cafes use QR codes on tables to link to digital menus, allowing updates without reprinting. Retail businesses use them on packaging and signage to link to product pages, warranty registration, and support resources. Event organisers use them on tickets and printed programs to link to schedules, venue maps, and session materials. Marketing teams use them on print advertisements, direct mail, and outdoor signage to bridge print and digital campaigns and track engagement. Healthcare providers use them on patient materials to link to instructions, forms, and resources. Educators use them in course materials to link to supplementary content, videos, and exercises.
Read our full guide on how to create a QR code for free for a detailed walkthrough including tips on sizing, color contrast, and avoiding common mistakes that make QR codes unscannable.