π‘ Why Use Plain Text QR Codes?
We constantly need to share text information - passwords, serial numbers, product codes, instructions,
quotes, or reference information. Traditionally, this requires manual typing, which is tedious, error-prone,
and especially frustrating for long or complex strings. Every typo means starting over, and complex
alphanumeric sequences are nearly impossible to communicate accurately verbally.
Plain text QR codes solve this by encoding any text content into a scannable format. One scan and the
text appears on the user's screen exactly as you entered it - no transcription errors, no missed characters,
no confusion. They can then copy it, save it, or use it immediately.
This is the most versatile QR code type because it works for any text-based information. Whether you're
sharing guest Wi-Fi passwords at an Airbnb, product serial numbers for warranty registration, assembly
instructions, motivational quotes for an event, or cryptocurrency wallet addresses - text QR codes handle
it all with perfect accuracy.
π― Perfect for:
- Wi-Fi passwords for guests (when you don't want automatic connection)
- Product serial numbers and model codes for warranty registration
- Software license keys and activation codes
- Cryptocurrency wallet addresses for payments
- Assembly or setup instructions for products
- Quotes, verses, or messages for events and displays
- API keys, authentication tokens, or configuration codes
- Emergency contact information and medical IDs
- Promo codes and discount vouchers
π Step-by-Step Guide
Create your text QR code in seconds:
1
Open the Text QR Generator
Click the button above to access the plain text QR generator. It loads instantly in your browser.
2
Enter Your Text Content
Type or paste any text you want to encode. This can be a single word, a password, multiple sentences,
or even paragraphs. The QR code generates automatically as you type - no need to click anything.
3
Keep It Scannable
While text QR codes can technically hold up to 4,296 characters, keep content under 500 characters
for best scanning results. Shorter text creates simpler, more reliable QR codes. Watch the preview -
if the QR pattern looks very dense, consider shortening your text.
4
Customize (Optional)
Switch to the Advanced tab to customize appearance - change colors, add your logo, or include border
text like "Scan for Wi-Fi Password" or "Product Serial Number" to provide context for users.
5
Download and Share
Download as PNG for general use, or SVG for print materials. Place the QR code anywhere you need to
share text information - product manuals, guest information cards, signage, packaging, or digital displays.
π‘ Pro Tip: Always include context text near your QR code explaining what it contains.
"Scan for Wi-Fi Password," "Product Serial Number," or "Scan for Instructions" helps users know what to
expect. For security-sensitive information like passwords, consider where you place the QR code - don't put
sensitive credentials in publicly visible locations.
β Frequently Asked Questions
How much text can I include in a QR code?
Technically, QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters. However, more text creates a denser,
more complex QR pattern that's harder to scan, especially from a distance or in poor lighting. For best
results, aim for under 500 characters. If you need to share more information, consider using a URL QR code
linking to a webpage with the full content.
Can I use emojis and special characters?
Yes! Modern QR code readers support Unicode, which includes emojis (ππ), accented characters (Γ©, Γ±, ΓΌ),
symbols (Β©, β’, β¬), and characters from non-Latin alphabets (δΈζ, Ψ§ΩΨΉΨ±Ψ¨ΩΨ©, Π ΡΡΡΠΊΠΈΠΉ). However, these
characters take up more space in the QR code than standard ASCII, so your character limit may be lower.
What happens when someone scans a text QR code?
The text appears on their screen exactly as you entered it. On most devices, a notification or popup will
display the text, and users can tap to copy it to their clipboard. The exact behavior varies slightly by
device and QR scanning app, but the text is always displayed for the user to read and use.
Is it safe to put passwords in text QR codes?
QR codes themselves are not encrypted - the text is directly encoded in the QR pattern. Only use text QR
codes for passwords you're intentionally sharing (like guest Wi-Fi) and place them appropriately (e.g.,
inside a guest room, not on a public storefront). Never use text QR codes for sensitive personal passwords,
financial PINs, or confidential credentials. For sensitive sharing, use encrypted messaging instead.
Do text QR codes expire or need internet to scan?
No on both counts! Text QR codes are completely static and work forever without internet. The text is
directly encoded in the QR pattern itself, so there's no server, no database, and no expiration. Once
generated, they'll work indefinitely, even if scanned completely offline. This makes them extremely reliable.
Can I format text with line breaks or paragraphs?
Yes! You can include line breaks by pressing Enter in the text field. The formatting (line breaks, spaces,
indentation) will be preserved when the QR code is scanned. This is useful for multi-line instructions,
formatted addresses, or poetry/quotes where line breaks matter.
How is a text QR code different from other types?
Text QR codes simply display the content when scanned - they don't trigger any action. URL QR codes open
websites, phone QR codes open the dialer, Wi-Fi QR codes connect to networks, etc. Text QR codes are the
simplest type - pure information display with no automatic action. This makes them versatile but less
convenient than action-specific QR types for certain use cases.
What's the best size for printing text QR codes?
For close-range scanning (like on a product manual or business card), 1x1 inch (2.5x2.5 cm) works well.
For medium distance (like on a wall poster), use 2x2 inches (5x5 cm) or larger. For long-distance scanning
(like on a billboard), go much larger. Simple rule: the farther away people will scan from, the bigger
the QR code needs to be. Also, shorter text creates simpler patterns that scan more reliably at smaller sizes.