How to Design a Custom QR Code for Tracking Campaigns
QRTracker.io makes it easy to create branded QR codes that reflect your business identity while maintaining reliable scanning performance. Use our built-in customization tools to add your brand colors (like #FF6B35 for foreground with white backgrounds), upload your company logo, and design eye-catching frames with call-to-action text—all while ensuring your codes scan perfectly on both iPhone and Android devices.
Add Your Brand Colors (Contrast Requirements)
QR codes don't have to be black and white! You can use any color palette, but follow these rules:
- High Contrast is Non-Negotiable – The foreground (dark elements) must contrast sharply with the background (light areas)
- Recommended Contrast Ratio: 4.5:1 minimum – Use a contrast checker tool before finalizing
- Dark on Light Works Best – Navy on white, black on cream, dark green on light gray
- Avoid Similar Tones – Light blue on white or dark gray on black will fail
Example: If your brand uses a bright orange (#FF6B35), pair it with a white or very light background. Avoid orange on yellow or orange on red.
In QRTracker's generator, use the color picker to select your palette. The preview updates in real-time so you can see exactly how it will look.
Add Your Logo (Safe Sizing So It's Still Scannable)
Adding a logo to the center of your QR code reinforces brand recognition. Here's how to do it safely:
- Logo Size: Cover no more than 30% of the QR code area – QR codes have error correction up to ~30%
- Center Placement – Always place the logo in the center, not near the edges or corner markers
- Use High-Resolution Images – PNG or SVG with transparent backgrounds work best
- Simple Logos Perform Better – Intricate details can interfere with scanning
Warning: If your logo is too large or has low contrast against the QR code, scanning may fail. Always test on multiple devices after adding a logo.
Upload your logo in the QRTracker generator, and the system will automatically center and scale it to a safe size. You can adjust the size slider if needed.
Add a Frame and Call to Action (e.g. 'Scan to Order')
Frames increase scan rates by up to 30% because they provide context and urgency. Examples include:
- "Scan to Order" – Perfect for restaurant menus or retail displays
- "Get 10% Off" – Drives promotional scans
- "View Menu" – Clear and direct for hospitality
- "Follow Us" – Great for social media QR codes
- "Download App" – Boosts app installs
In QRTracker, select a frame template or create a custom message. Frames appear around the QR code without interfering with the scannable area. Choose colors that align with your brand.
Pro Tip: Keep frame text short and action-oriented. 2-4 words work best.
Exporting for Print vs Web (PNG/SVG Guidance)
Choose the right file format based on where you'll use your QR code:
PNG (Raster Format)
Best for: Digital use (websites, social media, email signatures, presentations)
Resolution: Export at 300 DPI minimum for print, 72-96 DPI for web
When to use: Quick downloads, email attachments, or digital-only campaigns
SVG (Vector Format)
Best for: Print materials (posters, business cards, billboards, packaging)
Advantage: Scales infinitely without losing quality
When to use: Professional print jobs, large-format displays, or if you need design flexibility
PDF (Print-Ready)
Best for: Sending to print shops or embedding in documents
When to use: Multi-page brochures, event programs, or formal documents
Before You Print: Make Sure It Scans (Test on iPhone + Android)
Never print thousands of QR codes without testing first. Follow this checklist:
- Test on Multiple Devices – Scan with at least one iPhone and one Android phone. Camera quality and software differ between models.
- Test in Different Lighting – Try bright sunlight, indoor lighting, and low-light conditions. Glare or shadows can prevent scanning.
- Print a Test Copy – If possible, print one code at actual size before mass production. Colors can appear different on paper vs. screen.
- Check Minimum Size – Ensure your printed QR code is at least 2cm × 2cm. For outdoor or distant viewing, go larger (5cm+ recommended).
- Avoid Glossy Finishes That Cause Glare – Matte or semi-gloss surfaces scan better than high-gloss.
If your QR code doesn't scan reliably, see our troubleshooting guide: Why Won't My QR Code Scan?
⚠️ Common Design Mistakes That Break Scanning
- ✗ Low contrast (e.g., light gray on white)
- ✗ Logo covering more than 30% of the code
- ✗ Printing too small (under 2cm × 2cm)
- ✗ Using gradients or patterns that reduce readability
- ✗ Distorting or stretching the QR code (always maintain square proportions)
- ✗ Placing the code on busy backgrounds or textures
Design Checklist
- ✓ Use high-contrast colors (4.5:1 ratio minimum)
- ✓ Keep logo under 30% of QR code area
- ✓ Add a frame with clear call-to-action text
- ✓ Export SVG for print, PNG for digital
- ✓ Test on iPhone and Android before printing
- ✓ Maintain minimum 2cm × 2cm size
- ✓ Avoid glossy finishes that cause glare