QR Code Testing Checklist: 3 Things To Assess in a QR Code Test

Quick Response Codes, better known as QR Codes, are transforming everything from marketing campaigns and event ticketing to product tracking and supply chain logistics. These two-dimensional barcodes simplify connecting users to online resources, enhancing customer experiences and streamlining business operations.

However, none of that matters if your QR Code doesn’t work. To reap the benefits of a QR Code campaign, you need to make sure your codes are functional before printing and publishing them. The best way to do this? Thorough testing. 

In this post, we’ll explore how QR Codes work and highlight what you need to test to create reliable, effective codes that deliver results. 

Note: The brands and examples discussed below were found during our online research for this article.

1. Conduct a scan test to check basic functionality

First things first, make sure the QR Code works. Testing can uncover a variety of QR Code scanning problems that could affect functionality. A quick scan test helps you identify issues and ensures your code is ready to go public. 

Imagine this: You’re at a trendy coffee shop, and they’ve just handed you a beautifully designed loyalty card that promises free coffee after a few visits. You excitedly pull out your phone and scan the code—and nothing good happens. The code refuses to scan, or worse, it takes you to a random 404 error page. Talk about a caffeine buzzkill.

This kind of mishap not only frustrates customers but can also harm your brand’s credibility. That’s why testing your QR Codes before promoting them is essential—nobody wants to be that coffee shop.

Here are some common problems a scan test can reveal:

• Color contrast issues: Colors that are too similar can make your code hard to scan. A quick test will show you if this is the case. If needed, adjust the design to include a dark foreground and a light background for optimal readability. 
  
  
• Too-small QR Code: If your code doesn’t scan, check its size. As a rule of thumb, a minimum QR Code size of 2 cm x 2 cm (0.8 x 0.8 in) will ensure it’s large enough for most devices to read. 
  
  
• Slow loading: A sluggish page can ruin user experiences and distort scan metrics. Avoid overloading your QR Code with data. If you’re using a long URL, shorten it first to minimize the code’s complexity. 
  
  
• Wrong destinations: Mistakes happen! Testing confirms your QR Code takes users to the intended destination. If you’ve embedded the wrong URL, redirect it (for Dynamic QR Codes) or create a new code (for Static QR Codes). 
  
  
• Blurry code: Downloading your code in low-resolution formats like PNG and JPG can lead to blurry prints. For large-scale use, opt for scalable formats like SVG and EPS to maintain clarity. 
  
  
• Broken links: A non-existent page can frustrate users and undermine trust. Always scan your code to confirm the URL is live. If a Dynamic QR Code leads to a broken link, you can update the destination, but Static QR Codes will need to be recreated.

Note: Broken links can sometimes occur due to QR Code expiration. If you’ve ever wondered, “Do QR Codes expire?” the answer depends on the type of code. Dynamic QR Codes might become inactive if your subscription lapses, so keep it active throughout your QR Code campaign to maintain functionality. 

How to scan a QR Code

Testing your QR Code starts with scanning it—which is super simple to do on either a mobile device or a desktop.

On a mobile device or tablet (iPhone, iPad, or Android):

1. Open your smartphone camera app. 
   
   
2. Point the camera at the QR Code, ensuring it’s fully in the frame. Most phones will decode the code automatically. 
   
   
3. If it doesn’t, press and hold the code to bring up options to copy, open, or share the URL.
   
   
4. Tap “Open” to confirm it leads to the correct destination. 

If your phone doesn’t have a built-in QR Code reader, download a free scanner app, open it, and follow the same steps. 

On a desktop device (Mac or Windows):

Yes, you can scan a code from your computer too! Here’s how:

1. Download a QR Code reader app, like QR Journal or QR Code Scanner.
   
   
2. Open the app and grant it access to your camera. 
   
   
3. Position your QR Code in front of your webcam and confirm the destination provided is accurate. 

Alternatively, you can use Google Lens to scan the QR Code right from your browser, without printing it out.

Run these tests multiple times under different lighting conditions to ensure your code is scannable in both bright and dim environments. If not, adjust your colors to improve visibility.

Also, test the code from different distances and modify its size based on your audience’s expected scanning range. Ideally, you should maintain a size-to-distance ratio of 10:1—for example, a 2 cm QR Code will be readable from up to 20 cm away. 

2. Test on different devices to ensure a positive user experience

You can’t predict which devices your audience will use to scan your code, so it’s essential to test across as many as possible. Skipping this step could result in poor user experiences that damage your brand’s reputation. 

To guarantee universal accessibility, test using various devices, including both Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. Follow the QR Code scanning steps outlined above, and note which devices work and which encounter issues. 

How to optimize QR Codes for all devices

One of the best ways to ensure compatibility across various use cases is by optimizing your scan destination. A mobile-responsive landing page with user-friendly content—like simplified forms and compressed images and videos—can dramatically improve customer engagement. 

QR Code Generator PRO makes this process simple by offering mobile-optimized, templated landing pages. Just upload your desired content, and you’re good to go! 

Other ways to optimize your code for mobile include:

• Using high-contrast colors: Be certain the QR Code is easy to read across screens and in various conditions. 
  
  
• Downloading in high resolution: Scalable formats like SVG or EPS prevent blurriness, even when printed large. 
  
  
• Leaving enough white space: Surround your code with adequate white space to avoid interference with nearby designs or elements. 

3. Assess how QR Code design mitigates security risks

Some people hesitate to scan QR Codes, especially when the destination isn’t clear or the code appears generic. Concerns about phishing scams and malware are valid, so it’s crucial to design your code in a way that instills confidence before you add it to marketing materials. 

Start by checking if your code inspires confidence. If it looks too plain, customize it with your brand’s colors and add your logo to establish ownership. Including a call to action (CTA) can also reassure users by clarifying the purpose of the scan. For example, a simple “Scan to download e-book” can help users feel more secure about interacting with your code.

How safe are QR Codes?

So, are QR Codes safe? With the right provider and proper security measures, the answer is yes. However, like any digital tool, QR Codes can be misused if not handled carefully. For instance, cybercriminals might tamper with printed codes by covering them with fake ones or create untrustworthy QR Codes that lead users to malicious websites.

To maximize safety and build trust with your audience, follow these best practices:

• Use HTTPS protocols: Always link your codes to secure HTTPS URLs to protect users from phishing attempts and instill trust.
  
  
• Choose reputable QR Code generators: Check customer reviews to ensure the platform follows strict security protocols. 
  
  
• Enable multi-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your account to prevent unauthorized access. 
  
  
• Regularly monitor your QR Codes: Check for signs of tampering, such as overlays or stickers, which cybercriminals may use to redirect users to malicious codes. 
  
  
• Educate your audience on QR Code safety: Tell users to avoid scanning unknown QR Codes and to inspect embedded URLs and web pages for red flags, like misspelled domains or unrecognizable links. 

Create and test personalized QR Codes with QR Code Generator PRO

Before you publish your QR Codes, it’s worth taking the time to test them thoroughly. Check that they lead to the right destinations, work seamlessly on different devices, and include branding elements like your logo and a clear CTA. These small but essential steps build trust and make your codes instantly recognizable, encouraging customers to engage with them with confidence.

With QR Code Generator PRO, creating, testing, and customizing your QR Codes is effortless. Our intuitive platform offers advanced design options to help you personalize your codes, customize the pre-built mobile-optimized landing pages for a better user experience, and even update the destination of your Dynamic QR Codes whenever you need a redirect. 

Ready to create secure, functional, mobile-optimized QR Codes? Sign up for QR Code Generator PRO today!