1. Dimensions
A business card is held about 20 to 30 cm from the camera. Using the 10:1 rule from our [QR size calculator](/qr-size-calculator), the minimum is 2 to 3 cm. Aim for 2.5 cm (about 1 inch) for comfort, never below 2 cm on smooth stock.
2. Quiet Zone
Leave 4 modules of blank margin. For a Version 2 code (25 modules) at 2.5 cm total symbol width, each module is 1 mm, so the margin is 4 mm. Printed designs often forget this on the back of a card. Review our [QR placement guide](/qr-placement-guide) for proper spacing.
3. Payload Advice
Link to a short URL created with our [URL QR code generator](/url-qr-code-generator). A full vCard with several fields can produce a dense symbol that struggles at this size—our [vCard QR generator](/vcard-qr-code-generator) can create optimized versions, or use a profile link instead. Test the final card with a [QR scanner](/qr-scanner) and verify quality with our [printed QR tester](/printed-qr-tester).
4. Finish
Matte uncoated or matte laminate scans better than glossy foil. Avoid embossing or spot UV across the modules. Use our [error correction simulator](/error-correction-simulator) to understand how surface treatments affect scannability.
Putting this into practice
Start with the smallest real test you can run. Generate the code, print it at the exact size you plan to use, and scan it with two different phones in the lighting where it will live. Check that the destination page loads quickly on a mobile connection and that the call to action next to the code tells people what they will get. If anything feels slow or unclear, fix it before you print a full batch, because reprints cost more than a short test. Keep a note of the size, material, and placement that worked so the next batch starts from a proven setup.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common mistakes are easy to avoid once you know them. Long payloads make modules tiny, low contrast makes edges hard to read, and text placed too close to the border eats the quiet zone the scanner needs. Covering a corner finder pattern with a logo or a sticker breaks detection entirely, and a code placed behind glare or on a curved surface fails even when the print is perfect. Review each of these points on a proof copy, and treat any failure as a reason to adjust the design rather than a reason to blame the scanner.
Quick checklist
- Keep the payload as short as practical so modules stay large.
- Keep dark modules on a light background with strong contrast.
- Leave a clear quiet zone on all four sides of the symbol.
- Test the printed code at the real viewing distance and lighting.
- Confirm the destination page loads fast on a phone.
- Recheck the code after any change to the link, design, or placement.
