The Many Advantages of QR Codes
Edited by Spencer Pines
Updated August 29, 2026·5 min read
QR codes are everywhere now, there’s a good chance you’ve already encountered at least one in some way or another today. I know I’ve seen at least three and I haven’t even left my apartment yet.
But why are QR codes so prevalent now? What’s the benefit to using them versus a regular barcode or an NFC tag? What can QR codes be used for?
If you’ve asked any of these questions, then you’ve come to the right place! In this piece I will go over some of the many advantages of QR codes, as well as how the technology compares to other methods.
So let’s get started!
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What is a QR code?
A QR code is a type of encoded image containing data that can be scanned by a smart device, like a phone, tablet, or other piece of hardware. These codes typically appear as small squares made out of even smaller monochrome squares or dots and can be found on things like stickers, table tents, flyers, cards, and more.
Scanning a QR code can allow you to access a variety of digital and online content like websites, social media pages, several forms of contact information, text files, images, and much more.
These codes are easy to make through a service like QR Code Developer and can be used in just about any field you can think of. Examples we’ve covered include doctors and dentist offices, local theaters, stores, event venues, and much much more.
What are the advantages of QR codes?
There are all sorts of benefits to using QR codes in just about every field, but here are the five we felt were the best reasons to use these codes.
Ease of use
QR codes are both easy to use and easy to make through something like QR Code Developer. Just about every smart phone on the market has a QR code scanner built right in. All you need to do is point the camera at the code and tap the link when it pops up.
QR codes are both easy to use and easy to make through something like QR Code Developer. Just about every smart phone on the market has a QR code scanner built right in. All you need to do is point the camera at the code and tap the link when it pops up.
QR codes can also be scanned from almost any angle and even when visible damage has been done to the code.
Widely understood
By now, most people with smart phones are at least familiar with QR codes and know how to use them. In many regions, QR code payment is more popular than cash or cards.
By now, most people with smart phones are at least familiar with QR codes and know how to use them. In many regions, QR code payment is more popular than cash or cards.
Customizable
QR codes can be heavily customized, with unique colors and appearances to fit your needs or branding.
QR codes can be heavily customized, with unique colors and appearances to fit your needs or branding.
Hands free communication
The usage of QR codes surged during the COVID 19 pandemic since it allowed for people to communicate with each other, access content, and share resources, all without needing to touch each other or even be in the same space.
The usage of QR codes surged during the COVID 19 pandemic since it allowed for people to communicate with each other, access content, and share resources, all without needing to touch each other or even be in the same space.
Trackable
If you use something like QR Code Developer to make your codes, then it’s possible to monitor how your codes are used. This can include information like how many scans your code got, where they were scanned, and even on what device they were scanned.
If you use something like QR Code Developer to make your codes, then it’s possible to monitor how your codes are used. This can include information like how many scans your code got, where they were scanned, and even on what device they were scanned.
QR codes vs. UPC bar codes
QR codes were actually made in order to make up for the shortcomings of UPC barcodes. Barcodes store data only in one dimension. This basically means that QR codes can store much more data, since they do so both horizontally and vertically.
While barcodes can store up to 25 characters, one less than the English alphabet contains, QR codes can store over 4,000 characters. This is why QR codes can take you to things like web addresses and social media pages.
QR codes also feature more robust error correction technology, meaning that a QR code can have some visible damage and still be fully functional, while barcodes cannot.
The simpler technology of UPC barcodes is better for small tasks, like inventory management, but for things like marketing, sharing materials, and payment exchange, QR codes are the way to go.
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QR codes vs. NFC
- NFC tags also have their advantages against QR codes, namely in their ease of use. You don’t need to open another app or point a camera at anything in order to use them, just tap your device and you’re good!
- However, making an NFC tag requires physical hardware housed in a chip or a sticker. All QR codes need is something that can print a picture.
- While QR codes are much cheaper, NFC tags are often far more secure and difficult to tamper with, making them ideal for payment services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How are QR codes different from UPC barcodes?
A: While barcodes store data in one dimension, QR codes do so in two dimensions, meaning that they can store much more data than a barcode ever could.
Q: How are QR codes different from NFC tags?
A: QR codes can be printed on simple paper, whereas NFC tags require hardware embedded into stickers or some other kind of housing.
Q: Do I need to hire someone to make my QR codes?
A: No. QR codes can be made by yourself for free through a service like QR Code Developer.
Q: Do I need to download anything to scan QR codes?
A: While QR scanner apps are available for mobile devices, they are not necessary. Most modern smart devices are perfectly capable of scanning codes right from the built-in camera app.
Q: What devices can scan QR codes?
A: Most modern smart devices with both a built-in camera and an internet connection can scan QR codes and access the content within. This includes smart phones, tablets, and even some handheld gaming consoles.
Q: Are QR codes safe?
A: While there are some risks in using QR codes, they are relatively safe.
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