The Most Common Mistakes When Using QR Codes — And How to Avoid Them

Table of Contents

• 1. QR Code Without Explanation
• 2. Poor Contrast or Blurry Code
• 3. Long or Unreadable Links
• 4. Logo Overlaps Important Elements
• 5. Static Code Instead of Dynamic
• 6. Lack of Analytics
• 7. Poor Placement
• 8. Inaccessible or Outdated Page
• 9. Link Without HTTPS
• 10. Bland or Unreadable Design
• 11. Code Doesn’t Lead to What’s Promised

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QR codes have long become an integral part of marketing, printing, and digital communications. They are used on packaging, billboards, flyers, menus, business cards, and even receipts. One scan — and the user is instantly on the website, in the mobile app, or on the target landing page.

However, even with such a simple tool, critical mistakes can happen. A poorly placed, blurry, or non-functional QR code doesn’t just “fail to work” — it can ruin the impression of your brand.

In this article, we’ve gathered the most common mistakes when using QR codes in print and offline materials, along with specific tips on how to avoid them.

1. ❌ QR Code Without Explanation

People won’t scan the code just for the sake of it — they need to know what to expect. If there’s no description near the QR, it reduces the chances of scanning.

Solution: Add a call to action, such as "Scan to get 10% off" or "View the menu."

2. ❌ Poor Contrast or Blurry Code

A light code on a light background, excessive use of colors, or a very small size — all these hinder readability. The code should be as high-contrast and clear as possible.

Solution: The classic combination — black code on a white background. The recommended minimum size is 2.5×2.5 cm.

3. ❌ Long or Unreadable Links

Links like example-brand.com/index.php?ref=abc123 look suspicious, and an unoptimized page may not display correctly on mobile devices.

Solution: Use short URLs or dynamic QR codes with a redirect. Always check the page’s mobile responsiveness.

4. ❌ Logo Overlaps Important Elements

If you place the logo over the central points or markers of the code, it may not scan at all.

Solution: use a safety zone around the logo, leave the center free, and test the result before printing.

5. ❌ Static Code Instead of Dynamic

If you print a static code in large quantities and then change the link, it becomes impossible to update. Everything would need to be reprinted.

Solution: use dynamic QR codes — they allow you to change the link, enable analytics, or restrict access.

6. ❌ Lack of Analytics

Without analytics, you won’t know if the code is working: how many scans there were, which devices were used, and where the scans came from.

Solution: choose services that provide statistics — number of visits, geography, language, time, and devices.

7. ❌ Poor Placement

A code placed on the fold of packaging, too low on a billboard, or near elements that cause glare — all of this makes the code invisible or non-functional.

Solution: follow the guidelines: place it at eye level, in a zone with good contrast and without obstructions.

8. ❌ Inaccessible or Outdated Page

The code works, but the page doesn’t open, or it’s outdated? This is not just a mistake — it’s lost trust.

Solution: regularly check links, update content, and be sure to test on mobile.

9. ❌ Link Without HTTPS

If the QR code leads to a site without a secure connection (i.e., http:// instead of https://), the browser might show a warning or block access. This causes distrust and turns users away.

10. ❌ Bland or Unreadable Design

The classic black-and-white QR code is good, but if it looks too generic, lacking style or branding, it may be ignored. Even worse, it could look like spam.

Solution: add brand colors, a logo, or a text frame. Don’t overdo it with creativity, but make the code part of the overall design.

11. ❌ Code Doesn’t Lead to What’s Promised

The text says "Scan to get a bonus," but the QR leads to the homepage? This causes disappointment and loss of trust. The content behind the QR should match the expectation.

Solution: clearly align the promise with the actual content behind the QR. If you promise a discount, lead to a promotional page, not the general one.

Have you checked all the points? Then it’s time to create your QR code without mistakes 👇

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