QR codes have emerged as versatile tools that bridge the gap between physical and digital. For marketers and creatives navigating the intricacies of their campaigns, the right QR code generator can make all the difference. In this blog, we'll explore the top free QR code generators (after reviewing some of the basics), answer key questions and provide insights into the key features.

QR Code Basics

Let's revisit the basics. QR codes, or Quick Response codes, are two-dimensional barcodes that store information. For companies, they serve as dynamic gateways, linking consumers to digital content, promotions, and multimedia content with a simple scan using a smartphone or QR code reader. Once scanned, they lead the user to a specific digital page, form, action, website, or piece of content.

QR codes are extremely versatile as a marketing channel, allowing the ability to direct users to relevant and helpful digital information quickly and easily. Once printed you can even redirect the URL and digital experience, making it easy to update without needing to reprint the physical asset where the QR code lives. This versatility makes QR codes adaptable tools in various marketing scenarios, as companies want to directly engage consumers IRL (in real life), particularly for product marketing, retail marketing, and communicating with consumers at home post-purchase.

Dynamic versus static QR codes are also important to be sure of. The standard for modern marketers should be dynamic given the ability to customize over the useful lifetime and also for the sake of not having to replace codes with each new batch of product.

QR Code Generator Criteria:

When evaluating QR code generators, professional marketers need to consider certain criteria to ensure that the chosen tool aligns with their campaign objectives.

These criteria include:

1. Customization options
2. Tracking & analytics capabilities, and what protections you need for GDPR and digital privacy
3. Ease of use
4. Ability to generate diverse QR code types (URL, contact, Wi-Fi, etc.)
5. Output (page building or information transfer)
6. Where the QR code directs the scanner and what action you want them to take

‍

Top 5 (Free) QR Generators

QR Code Generator #1: Digiphy QR Codes & Page Builder

One of the frontrunners and our personal favorite is the Digiphy QR Code & Page Generator. The free plan makes it easy to get started,  and offers a number of customization options, including color, shape, embedding logos. Their QR codes are all dynamic with infinite redirects. They also have a page builder that allows for you to create unique pages for each touchpoint with forms for data capture, and 100s of integrations making it easy for you to leverage your existing tools to maximize engagement and conversions. They’re also GDPR and SOC compliant. It’s a great all-in-on platform that combines QR, page building, integrations, and analytics to maximize consumer engagement, first-party data capture, and business conversions.

QR Code Generator #2: QR Stuff:

For marketers seeking a feature-rich generator, QR Stuff is a good choice. It supports a wide array of QR code types and offers standard customization options, including color, shape, and the ability to add a logo. With the free version, users can create QR codes for URLs, text, and contact info.

QR Code Generator #3: Bit.ly

Bit.ly is known for its simplicity and speed. Marketers can quickly generate QR codes for URLs, text, contact information, and more. The platform provides high-resolution QR codes suitable for print materials and allows users to download them in various formats. However, it's essential to note that tracking features are limited in the free version.

QR Code Generator #4: QR Code Generator by Shopify:

Designed with e-commerce in mind, Shopify's QR code generator is a valuable asset for marketers in the retail space. It allows for the creation of QR codes that direct users to product pages, making it seamless for customers to access detailed information or make purchases while shopping online.

QR Code Generator #5: QR Code Monkey

A final good choice in the QR code generator space is QR Code Monkey. It offers a user-friendly interface with a plethora of customization options. Marketers can design visually appealing QR codes, embed logos, and even create dynamic codes that allow for real-time content updates. The platform also provides analytics for tracking the performance of QR codes.

‍

Conclusion

Leveraging QR codes can significantly enhance campaign effectiveness transitioning campaigns from a brand campaign to a direct response campaign. The key lies in selecting the right QR code generator that aligns with your specific goals and requirements. Whether you prioritize customization, tracking capabilities, or e-commerce integration, the above-mentioned generators offer a diverse range of features to cater to the needs of professional marketers. As you embark on your QR code journey, remember that the right tool can transform these unassuming codes into powerful assets for engaging consumers and driving campaign success.

Digiphy is one of the only options that is completely free to customize and set up with an easy webpage, so try it out below before testing out other options! We won’t be offended if you go with someone else, but we think we have them beat :)

‍