QR codes are everywhere - on products, ads, menus, receipts, even business cards. But have you ever wondered how those tiny black-and-white squares actually work?
In this guide, we’ll break down the technology behind QR codes, from how data is stored to how your phone instantly reads and processes it. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a marketer, understanding how QR codes function helps you use them more effectively.
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a type of 2D barcode that holds data in both horizontal and vertical directions. Unlike traditional barcodes that store data in lines, QR codes use squares and patterns to encode information efficiently.
They can hold different types of data:
QR codes are popular because they are fast to scan, easy to generate, and readable even when slightly damaged.
QR codes store information using a grid of black and white modules. Each small square in the grid represents binary data - black for 1, white for 0.
The more data you encode, the denser the QR code becomes.
Key components of a QR code:
QR scanners use error correction (typically Reed-Solomon) to ensure that up to 30% of the code can be damaged and still work.
QR codes come in 40 versions, ranging from 21x21 to 177x177 modules. Higher versions = more data = denser patterns. Most everyday use cases fall within version 1 to 10.
Enqode QR automatically adjusts QR code size based on the type of data you input.
While any QR code scanner can read a code, how you generate it impacts performance:
With Enqode QR, you get:
We handle the tech so you can focus on results.
Behind every QR code is a clever system of data encoding, error correction, and fast decoding. Knowing how QR codes work gives you a deeper appreciation for their simplicity and power.
Whether you're embedding a simple link or running a dynamic campaign, Enqode QR helps you create reliable, smart, and beautifully optimized QR codes that perform.
