A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that stores information in a grid of black and white squares. Originally invented in 1994 by Denso Wave for tracking automotive parts in Japanese factories, QR codes have since become one of the most widely used data-encoding formats in the world.
Unlike traditional one-dimensional barcodes that can only hold about 20 characters, a QR code can encode up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or 7,089 numeric digits. This makes them versatile enough to store website URLs, contact information, WiFi credentials, payment links, geographic coordinates, calendar events, and much more.
QR codes work through a system of error correction — built-in redundancy that allows a code to remain scannable even if up to 30% of its surface is damaged or obscured. This is the same property that lets you place a logo in the center of a QR code without breaking it. QR Stealth supports four error correction levels (L, M, Q, H), with H providing the highest damage tolerance — ideal for printed materials or codes with embedded logos.
Every smartphone manufactured since 2017 can scan QR codes using its built-in camera app — no special software required. This universal compatibility is what makes QR codes one of the most accessible bridges between the physical and digital worlds.
1
Choose Your QR Type
Select from 21 QR code types: URL, WiFi, vCard, Email, SMS, Phone, WhatsApp, Payment, Location, Calendar, and more. Each type has a dedicated input form optimized for that data format.
2
Customize the Design
Pick your colors, dot style, and error correction level. Upload a logo to embed in the center. Add a frame with a call-to-action label. Everything generates in real-time as you adjust settings.
3
Download & Deploy
Export as high-resolution PNG (up to 2000px) or vector SVG for print. No watermarks, no sign-up, no expiration. Your QR code is ready to use immediately — on screens, print, packaging, or signage.
Everything happens in your browser. QR Stealth processes your data entirely on your device using client-side JavaScript — your information is never uploaded to a server. This means your WiFi passwords, contact details, and payment links stay completely private. I built it this way on purpose: your data is yours, not ours.
QR Stealth supports 21 distinct QR code formats, each designed for a specific use case. Whether you are connecting customers to your website, sharing WiFi access with hotel guests, or distributing digital business cards at a conference, there is a dedicated QR type for your need:
🔗 URL
📶 WiFi
👤 vCard
✉️ Email
💬 SMS
📞 Phone
📱 WhatsApp
📝 Plain Text
📍 Location
📅 Calendar
💰 PayPal
💸 Venmo
💵 CashApp
🪙 Crypto
🐦 Twitter/X
📸 Instagram
👍 Facebook
💼 LinkedIn
🎵 Spotify
🎬 YouTube
📦 Batch
The most popular types are URL (linking to any website), WiFi (instant network sharing without typing passwords), and vCard (digital business cards that save directly to a phone's contacts). For businesses, PayPal, Venmo, and CashApp QR codes simplify in-person payments by encoding pre-filled payment links that customers can scan and pay in seconds.
Need to generate multiple codes at once? The Batch mode lets you paste a list of URLs or text entries and download them all as a ZIP file — ideal for inventory labels, event badges, or product packaging. Learn more in our batch QR code guide.
Is QR Stealth really free?
Yes — completely free with no hidden fees, no premium tiers, and no feature gates. Every QR code type, custom color, logo upload, dot style, and export format (PNG and SVG) is available to everyone at no cost. QR Stealth is sustained through non-intrusive advertising, not subscriptions. There are no daily limits, no scan caps, and your codes never expire.
Is my data safe? Do you store my QR code content?
QR Stealth is built as a 100% client-side application. Your QR code data — URLs, WiFi passwords, contact details, payment links — is processed entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Nothing is sent to a server. We cannot see, store, or access your QR code content because it never leaves your device. The only data we collect is anonymous analytics (via Google Analytics) to understand traffic patterns, and you can opt out of that through our
cookie preferences.
Do I need an account to use QR Stealth?
No. There is no sign-up, no login, no account creation — ever. You can start generating QR codes immediately. This was a deliberate design decision: most QR code generators force you to create an account so they can upsell you on paid plans. QR Stealth does not do that.
Can I add a logo to my QR code?
Yes. Upload any PNG or JPG image and it will be embedded in the center of your QR code. For best results, use a square image with a transparent or white background. Set the error correction level to H (highest) when using a logo — this gives the code maximum damage tolerance so it remains scannable even with the logo covering part of the pattern. Read our full
guide to adding logos to QR codes for design tips and sizing recommendations.
What is the difference between PNG and SVG export?
PNG is a raster (pixel-based) format best for screens and digital use. QR Stealth lets you export PNGs up to 2000px. SVG is a vector format that scales to any size without losing quality — ideal for print materials like business cards, posters, banners, and packaging. If you are printing your QR code, always choose SVG. Check our
QR code size guide for specific sizing recommendations by use case.
Do QR codes created with QR Stealth expire?
No. Static QR codes are permanent — the data is encoded directly into the pattern itself. As long as the destination (like a URL) remains active, the code will work forever. Unlike some competitors that expire codes when you cancel a subscription, QR Stealth codes have no expiration date and no dependency on our servers.
What is error correction and which level should I use?
Error correction is built-in redundancy that allows a QR code to remain scannable even if part of it is damaged, dirty, or covered. There are four levels: L (7% recovery), M (15%), Q (25%), and H (30%). Use H if you are adding a logo or printing on surfaces that might get scratched. Use M or L for digital screens where damage is unlikely and you want a simpler, less dense pattern.
Can I use QR Stealth for commercial purposes?
Absolutely. QR codes generated with QR Stealth can be used for any commercial, personal, educational, or nonprofit purpose without restriction. There are no watermarks, no attribution requirements, and no licensing fees. Use them on product packaging, marketing materials, restaurant menus, business cards, event badges, storefront signage — anything you need.
How do I create a WiFi QR code?
Select the "WiFi" type from the QR code type selector above, then enter your network name (SSID), password, and security type (WPA/WPA2 is most common). QR Stealth will generate a code that, when scanned, automatically connects the device to your network — no typing required. This is perfect for homes, offices, cafes, hotels, and Airbnbs. See our step-by-step
WiFi QR code tutorial for more details.
How many QR codes can I generate at once?
There is no limit on individual QR codes. For bulk generation, use the Batch mode: paste a list of URLs or text (one per line) and QR Stealth will generate a code for each entry and package them as a downloadable ZIP file. This is useful for inventory management, event registration, multi-location businesses, or any scenario where you need dozens or hundreds of unique codes. Read our
batch generation guide for tips and use cases.