What Are The Basics of QR Codes and How Do They Work?

By: RegieUpdate: June 25, 2025

A quick-response code or QR code is a type of two-dimensional barcode that stores information in a square-shaped grid of black and white squares.

It holds data such as a link, file, or contact card that a machine or device, like a smartphone, can read and access through the camera. Once scanned, it instantly directs users to the embedded content.

QR codes can be commonly found on restaurant tables, product packaging, billboards, and other online and offline spaces.

Table of Contents

What are the elements of a QR code?

Each part of a QR code plays a role in accurate and fast scanning:

Position Markers: The three large squares in the corners that help scanners detect the code’s orientation.
Alignment Pattern: The smaller square that ensures the code reads correctly, even when placed on curved or uneven surfaces.
Timing Pattern: The lines between the position markers that help organize the data grid.
Version Information: Details about the QR code version (there are 40 versions).
Format Information: Defines the error correction level and data mask pattern.
Quiet Zone: Blank space around the code that prevents interference from surrounding content.
Data Modules: Tiny black and white squares that carry the actual encoded data, such as a URL or file.
Error Correction: Backup data that helps recover the original content even if part of the code is damaged or dirty.

What are the types of QR codes?

QR codes have two main types: static and dynamic.

Dynamic QR codes are advanced QR codes that allow you to change the content even after creating or printing. On the other hand, static QR codes store information permanently and do not expire.

Features	Static QR Code	Dynamic QR Code
Editability	No	Yes
Trackability	No	Yes
Scannability	Average	High
Retargeting	No	Yes
Subscription	No	Yes

Other advanced QR code features that dynamic QR codes have include:

QR Code Customization: You can incorporate a logo, use different high-contrast colors, add a call to action (CTA), and change the shape of the QR code elements.
Bulk QR Code Generation: Create multiple QR codes at once.
Third-party API Integration: Connect the QR codes with tools like Canva, Zapier, Google Analytics, and other CRM and ERP platforms.
Expiration: Activate and deactivate QR codes according to campaign needs.
Password Protection: Restrict access to QR codes with sensitive data.
GPS Tracking: Pinpoint the exact locations of the QR code scans.
Email Scan Notification: Receive email alerts when QR codes get scanned.

How to create a QR code?

Here’s how to make a QR code:

Go to QR TIGER.
Select a QR code solution and input the necessary data.
Choose between static and dynamic QR, then generate.
Customize the QR code design.
Download the QR code.

What are the key QR code solutions?

URL QR Code

Links to a website, landing page, or any online content. Available in static or dynamic format.

vCard or Business Card QR Code

A vCard QR code stores contact information such as name, email, phone, address, and social media links. It is ideal for business cards, resumes, and email signatures.

File QR Code

Stores a PDF, MP4, PNG, or JPEG file. This dynamic QR code allows for file updates without changing the QR code.

Google Form QR Code

Converts a Google Form link into a scannable code. A QR code form is useful in accessing surveys, registrations, or quizzes.

Location QR Code

Opens a specific address in Google Maps. It is commonly used for business locations or event venues.

Social Media or Link Page QR Code

Combines multiple social media profiles into one scannable link. A link page or social media QR code is ideal for creators, influencers, and businesses.

H5 QR Code or Landing Page QR Code

Allows you to create and link a simple, mobile-optimized landing page with no separate hosting needed.

WiFi QR Code

Connects users to a WiFi network instantly by scanning the code. No manual password entry required.

GS1 Digital Link

GS1 QR code replaces traditional UPC barcodes with digital ones that connect to product information and support GS1 Sunrise 2027 standards.

App Store QR Code

Redirects users to the correct app store (Google Play Store, Huawei AppGallery, or Apple App Store) based on their device for easier app installation.

Menu QR Code

Displays a digital menu when scanned. A QR code menu is commonly used in restaurants for contactless ordering.

Multiple Links or Smart URL QR Code

A smart URL QR code, or a QR code with multiple links, redirects users to specific destinations based on location, time, language, or scan count.

Email QR Code

Opens a draft email with a pre-filled recipient and subject line.

MP3 or Audio QR Code

Allows you to share an audio file such as a podcast, music file, or voice message.

Video QR Code

Links to a video hosted on YouTube or another platform. A video QR code is often used in promotions, tutorials, or product showcases.

Facebook QR Code

A type of social media QR code that redirects to a specific Facebook profile, page, event, or group.

YouTube QR Code

A QR code that directs to a YouTube channel, video, or playlist.

Instagram QR Code

A QR code intended for Instagram. It leads to an account, post, reels, or IGTV videos.

Pinterest QR Code

A kind of social media QR code that leads to a specific Pinterest profile, board, or pin.

TikTok QR Code

A QR code that links directly to a TikTok account, videos, and other content on the platform.

Twitter (X) QR Code

A QR code that redirects users to an account or tweet on Twitter (X).

Event QR Code

Stores event details including date, time, and venue. Scanners can save it to their calendars.

Text QR Code

Displays plain text. It works offline and is suitable for showing short notes, codes, or instructions.

SMS QR Code

Opens the phone’s messaging app with a pre-filled phone number and message.

How to scan a QR code?

Scanning a QR code is simple, but not everyone knows the different methods.

Using a smartphone camera

Open your phone’s camera.
Point it at the QR code.
Tap the link or wait for it to extract the contents of the QR code.

Using Google Lens

Open Google Lens or your camera with Lens built-in.
Hover over the QR code.
Tap the link and follow the actions it suggests.

Using third-party applications

Some phones need apps like a QR code scanner.

Choose a QR code scanner, download it, and open the app.
Scan the code.
Wait for it to extract the contents of the QR code.

Summary: How exactly do QR codes work?

A QR code is a square-shaped, machine-readable barcode that stores data like links or files. A smartphone camera can scan it to access the data instantly.

QR codes serve many purposes, from menus to business cards, and can be created and scanned easily using smartphones or apps.

FAQ

What does QR code stand for?

QR codes stand for “Quick Response” code.

How much does a QR code cost?

The cost of a QR code varies, but it is often free to generate and use for basic purposes. Dynamic ones often require a subscription to unlock features like editing and tracking.