How to Scan a QR Code from Screenshot
Trying to figure out how to scan a QR code from screenshot without opening the camera?
With QR codes becoming more prevalent—acting as a very quick portal to websites, photos, information, and even apps—it is no wonder that we always need to scan a QR code outright or save it to scan later.
But how do we do that?
This guide leads you through every step of successfully scanning screengrabbed QR codes on different devices and recommends the best scanner apps for this purpose.
And if you want to create high-quality QR codes for any of your gimmicks, look no further. We have the best QR code generator to offer.
Table of Contents
- Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
- QR code scanners to use for scanning screengrabbed QR codes
- QR TIGER QR Code Generator | Scanner
- Scan QR code online
- How to scan a QR code from screenshot on different devices
- How to create high-quality QR codes using an advanced QR code generator with logo
- Best tips and tricks for scanning a QR code
- Take the shot: Scan screenshot QR codes successfully
- Frequently asked question
Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
Yes, you can scan a screenshot QR code.
While most devices do not allow you to scan straight from your Apple Photos, Android Gallery, or computer-saved files, you can use a QR code scanner from image app instead.
Some QR code maker platforms also provide a feature for extracting the embedded information from a QR code image.
As tricky as it may sound, scanning a QR code from photo from social media posts, websites, advertisements, or just photos in general is quite easy with the right QR scanner tool at hand.
QR code scanners to use for scanning screengrabbed QR codes
Most QR scanners make use of a device’s camera to pick up the QR code image and decode the information it stores or the action it is supposed to do.
There is an assortment of QR code readers online and third-party apps that can provide you with everything you need, including a way to read a screengrabbed QR code.
We have listed down the ways to scan QR codes using different QR code readers, both for mobile devices and personal computers:
QR TIGER QR Code Generator | Scanner
Available on the App Store and Google Play Store, this all-in-one app lets you create and scan QR codes even without an internet connection.
Simply follow these steps to scan a QR code from image on your device:
- Download the app on your device and launch it.
- Press the “Scan” tab and tap the Photos/Gallery icon.
Note: Click “Allow” if the app asks for permission to access your images. It might also ask for permission to use the camera.
- Browse through your gallery and select the QR code image or screenshot to scan.
- A banner or pop-up will appear to guide you to the contents of the QR code.
It is important to note that while the app does not need a Wi-Fi or data connection to scan your QR code, you might need one to access its contents.
Scan QR code online
If you screengrabbed the QR code from your laptop or personal computer screen, you can also use the platform’s web application to extract the link it contains. Here’s how:
- Open QR TIGER QR Code Generator on your browser.
- Select the URL QR code.
- Upload the QR code image by browsing through your files or dragging it to the platform.
Once the link has been extracted, copy and paste it on a new tab to access the content.
Browser Extension
For your computer, you can download a QR code reader or scanner extension for your browser. To add this:
- For Google Chrome users, open the Chrome Web Store and click Extensions, then search for a QR code reader or scanner.
- Pick the extension or add-on you prefer using.
- Press “Add.”
This also works for Mozilla Firefox users. Firefox uses “Add-Ons” as their Browser Store but still follows the same steps.
Mobile Browser
The built-in browser app of most mobile devices now comes with a barcode and QR code reader feature. To scan a screenshot QR code on your smartphone or tablet, simply follow these steps:
- Open the browser app and tap the scanner icon found by the search bar.
- Press the Gallery icon.
- Browse and select the QR code image.
The scanner will automatically redirect you to its content.
Google Lens Scanner
Google Lens is the small camera icon in the Google search bar on browsers and Google widgets. This Lens allows you to search anything by image, including scanning QR codes.
To access this Google scanner, you are required to be connected to wifi or data connection.
For computer browsers:
- Click the lens on the Google search bar.
- Drag or upload your QR code image or screenshot from your files.
- Click on the QR code and there will be options available to you on what you want to do with it.
For Google widgets:
- Press the lens on your Google Widget.
- You may search with your camera or using an image or screenshot you have.
- Your photos or gallery could be pulled up already once you have pressed the lens. If not, open the gallery icon.
- Choose the image or screenshot with a QR code that you want to open.
- A banner or pop-up will appear to redirect you to the content.
For mobile devices:
- Launch either the Google or Google Chrome application.
- Click the lens on the Google search bar.
- The app might ask permission to access your album or camera. Once it is granted, your photos should appear underneath “Search with your camera.
- If it is not there, press the gallery icon.
- Choose the image or screenshot with a QR code that you want to open.
- A banner or pop-up will appear to redirect you to the content.
How to scan a QR code from screenshot on different devices
We have provided the steps for scanning a QR code with logo or custom QR codes on devices with different operating systems:
On a computer
Some laptop devices now have a QR scanning feature that you can access through the webcam.
You can try using this feature through the following steps:
- Open the Camera app.
- Show the QR code image in front of the camera. Make sure it’s clear for an on-point scanning.
- Copy the extracted link and open it on your browser.
If your laptop doesn’t provide this option, fret not. You can always scan QR code online, which is your best bet for accessing the contents of a QR code image on your computer.
On Apple devices
To scan a QR code on Apple iOS devices like iPhones and iPads, follow these steps below:
- Open your device’s camera app.
- Point the camera toward the QR code.
- Tap the banner to open the content.
Another way to scan a QR code from screenshot is to long-press the QR code image to extract the link it contains.
If you're wondering how to scan QR code on Mac devices, you need to have the Photobooth app.
On Android devices
Devices with an Android OS, like Samsung, Huawei, and Google Pixels, have a QR scanning feature either on their phone camera or the system bar icon users can employ to open QR codes.
- Open your Android device’s camera.
- Alternatively, you can find the scanner icon in the system bar at the top or bottom of your phone screen.
- Press on the “Scan QR code” icon.
- Make sure that the QR code is within the frame.
- Wait for a banner or pop-up to appear when the QR code is in frame. In some instances, the QR scanner automatically directs you to the content.
- Tap on the banner or pop-up, and it will lead you to the link or whatever details are stored on the QR code.
How to create high-quality QR codes using an advanced QR code generator with logo
Of course, it’s best to learn how to make quality static and dynamic QR codes to ensure that they remain scannable even when screengrabbed.
To create your own QR code, follow these simple steps:
- Select from the QR code types available that fit your needs.
- Enter the required information.
- Choose between Static QR or Dynamic QR, then click Generate QR code.
- Customize the QR code design. You can add a logo or change the colors that match your branding.
- Test the QR code and save it as a PNG or SVG (both produce high-quality images).
Best tips and tricks for scanning a QR code
Sometimes it is a bit tricky to scan a QR code, but worry not. We provide you with useful suggestions to try out when you scan a QR code next time:
Clean your camera lens
It could be that the sensors in your phone’s camera are unable to successfully read a code because the lens is a little dirty. Wipe your lens, even if it is just with a simple swipe of your shirt, and try it again.
Keep steady
It is best to either place the QR code on a proper surface that does not disfigure it or hold your phone with both hands to steady yourself more. Having both hands on the phone allows you to tap your screen to keep the QR code in focus.
Look for better light
Sometimes, a lighting problem makes it difficult to pick up. Try your best not to have your shadow in your shot, turn on more lights for better lighting, or even use your flash when scanning.
Do not angle your phone too much
An angle might be necessary to scan a QR code, but if you can, do not angle it too much. Keep your phone as straight as possible to the QR code.
Check your distance
You might be too far away or too close to a QR code to read it. Depending on the size of the code, provide a 5- to 10-inch distance (or more) between the phone and the QR code.
Take the shot: Scan screenshot QR codes successfully
Whether using a mobile device's built-in feature, website, specific scanning app, or extension, the process of reading and scanning a QR code from screenshot is simple and efficient.
By following any of the suggestions and the steps above, you will be able to read QR codes from any image or screenshot and access all of the information they provide, becoming just a little more tech-savvy and enhancing your technological journey.
And if you need advanced, branded, and high-quality QR codes for your personal or business needs, QR TIGER is always at your service. Visit us today.
Frequently asked question
Can I scan a QR code without an app?
Yes, you can scan a QR code using your phone camera, a website, data sharing, or Google Lens.
Any of these options will help you scan a QR code without an app.
