Static QR Codes: What to Print, Test and Keep Private
Updated 21 October 2026 · Metro Research
A QR code is a compact way to pass information from a sign or screen to a phone. The important decision is what the code contains. Metro’s Business QR Kit makes static codes, which directly encode the information you enter.
Static codes and redirect services are different
A website QR from Metro contains the website address itself. It does not depend on a Metro tracking link or a paid redirect subscription. If the printed address later stops working, the QR will still encode that old address.
You cannot remotely edit the pixels on an existing printed code. To change a static QR’s destination, generate and print a new code. If you control the destination website, you can sometimes update the page at that same address instead.
Choose the type for the task
A website code is suitable for a menu, portfolio, product page or event information. Use a stable HTTPS address and check that it opens on a phone without requiring an unexpected login.
A Wi-Fi code contains the network name, security type and password. Anyone with the code can potentially decode those credentials. Put a guest network’s details on a guest sign rather than exposing a private network’s credentials.
A contact code uses vCard information such as a name, company, phone and email. Enter only details you intend to distribute. A WhatsApp code opens an international phone number with an optional suggested message; the visitor still chooses whether to send it.
Use a clear print layout
A code needs contrast and empty space around its modules. Metro keeps the QR dark on white while allowing an accent color on the surrounding card. Avoid covering the code with logos or cropping away its white border.
SVG is useful when you need to scale a code for a print layout. PNG is convenient for documents, messages and simple image workflows. The printable card combines the QR with a heading and a caption that explain what scanning it will do.
Test a realistic version
Scan the code at its actual intended size and distance. Check more than one phone if possible. Low-quality printers, glossy surfaces, reflections and a dense code can change how easy scanning feels. There is no universal print size that guarantees success for every environment.
Test the destination as well as the scan. Confirm the website, contact details or phone number. For Wi-Fi, try joining the network as a guest. QR behavior varies by phone and scanning application.
Before distributing
- Check every field for spelling and stale details.
- Generate the code and matching caption.
- Download SVG or a sufficiently clear PNG.
- Test the printed or displayed version.
- Keep a copy of the source details so you can regenerate it later.
Written for the current Metro Research tool. See our quality and corrections policy.