The best apps and tools for creating QR codes from your mobile: A complete and updated guide

The QR code has become an essential tool to quickly connect the physical and digital worlds. Today, their use goes far beyond simply accessing a website; QR codes allow you to share contact information, display a PDF restaurant menu, link to social media, facilitate connection to a Wi-Fi network, access exclusive promotions, and much more. All this by simply scanning a square pattern with your phone's camera.

Thanks to the evolution of smartphones, Not only is it easy to scan QR codes, but it's also easy to create them in seconds. with free apps available for both Android and iPhone. In this guide, you'll discover The best apps to generate QR codes from your mobile phone, online options with advanced features, tips for customizing them, and practical tricks to get the most out of them in your daily life.

What is a QR code and why is it so popular?

Un unit’s QR code (Quick Response Code) is a type of two-dimensional barcode capable of storing data within a matrix of black and white squares. Initially created in Japan for the automotive industry, it has become popular worldwide for its ability to encode a lot of information in a small space and for its fast reading speed with any mobile phone.

Among the data that a QR code can contain are:

• Links to web pages and landing pages.
• Contacts (vCard), emails and telephones.
• Wi-Fi networks with SSID and password (forget about spelling out passwords!).
• Plane text, SMS messages, events, geographic locations, digital menus and more.

Scanning a QR code is as easy as opening your camera. and point to the code. The phone itself recognizes the content and executes the corresponding action instantly.

Advantages and uses of QR codes in daily life

The success of QR is due to the multitude of benefits they offer in different contexts:

• Easy to use: Users only need a mobile device to scan and access information, eliminating intermediate processes.
• Versatility: They are used to share any type of information, from promotions, digital menus, business cards, to Wi-Fi connections or physical addresses.
• Speed: They provide immediate access to online data and services, improving the user experience.
• Savings and sustainability: They are free to create and can be printed or displayed on screens, reducing paper consumption.
• Improved interaction and marketing: They allow you to quickly connect with customers, launch marketing campaigns, analyze scanning statistics, or even manage payments.

In everyday life, you'll see QR codes in restaurants, stores, concerts, events, advertising campaigns, business cards, invoices, and even to share Wi-Fi with your friends.

How to create a QR code from your mobile phone?

Creating a QR code is a simple and quick process, accessible to any user without the need for technical knowledge.The only requirement is to download an app or use an online tool. These are the general steps you should follow:

1. Select the information to be encoded: Define what you want to share (link, text, contact, Wi-Fi network, etc.).
2. Choose an app or QR generator: Below we show you the best options for each type of user and need.
3. Enter the information: Fill in the necessary information on the chosen application or website.
4. Customize the QR: You can change the color, add a logo, or choose the design if the tool allows it.
5. Generate and download the QR code: Save the code to your phone, share it, or print it.

These applications allow you to create QR codes both static (non-modifiable) as dynamic (editable and with statistics tracking, in advanced services). Remember Always verify the QR code before printing or sharing it. to avoid mistakes.

Tips for designing effective QR codes

To ensure success in reading a QR code, keep these two things in mind: key factors:

• Clarity and Contrast: The design should have a light background and well-defined elements, avoiding dark colors that make it difficult to read on a mobile device.
• Appropriate size: A QR code that's too small can cause scanning problems, especially when printed. Ideally, it should be at least 2,5 to 5 cm across.
• Personalization without excess: Adding logos or changing colors can be helpful in reinforcing your brand image, but excessive design can make it difficult to scan.
• Test the code: Before sharing or printing, make sure all phones can scan it correctly.

The best mobile apps for generating QR codes

Below you have a detailed list with the Best apps to create and scan QR codes for free from your mobile. All these apps have been selected by Its ease of use, customization possibilities and variety of supported formats (URL, text, contact, Wi-Fi, menus, location, etc.).

QR code generator

This application stands out for its Speed ​​and accuracy when creating custom QR codesIt's free, cross-platform, and compatible with a wide variety of formats: web links, social media profiles, digital business cards, text, Wi-Fi networks, restaurant menus, PDF documents, and more.

You can create custom codes with different backgrounds and colors, add explanatory text or logos, and even add a watermark. To create your QR code, simply choose the type of information, enter the content, click "Create," and customize it before finishing.

QR Code Generator – YKART

One of the most valued apps on Google Play, it stands out for being a simple but very functional generator. It allows you to generate QR codes for apps, websites, images, and much more. Simply select the code type, enter the content, choose the style and background, and press the button to generate.

QRky: QR Code Generator

This generator stands out for its Dual function of creating and reading QR and barcodes, ideal for users looking for an all-in-one solution. It allows you to scan products and associate them directly with your database. The creation process is simple: choose the type of code, add the information, and click "create."

Monkey QR Code

An international benchmark for the free advanced QR creationYou can customize colors, insert logos, choose patterns and frames, and share codes from the app. It supports multiple languages, including Spanish, English, German, and French. Available for both Android and iPhone, it supports up to nine different types of content.

QR Create

A very popular app among hoteliers and small businesses for its smart mode to generate digital menu codes and letters. Allows you to increase or decrease font size, adjust colors, and create code in a single tap. Perfect for those who need quick, professional-looking solutions.

QR Generator Pro

Advanced version with more customization options and the ability to read barcodes in addition to QR codes. It allows you to select images as backgrounds, customize menus, and save templates. It has over 100.000 downloads and is perfect for those seeking professional quality.

Generate & Scan QR

This two-in-one app supports text, Vcard, Wi-Fi, geolocation, SMS, email, and more. Its simplicity makes it ideal for users who want to scan and create QR codes without complications.It has been downloaded over 50.000 times and has one of the highest ratings on Google Play.

QR Code Creator

A minimalist and very fast app for those looking to create links directly (links, Wi-Fi passwords, images, etc.). It allows you to read both QR codes and barcodes and share or customize the result before saving it. Suitable for both casual and business users.

QR/barcode scanner & generator

Reads and generates QR or barcodes in less than 30 seconds. It supports multiple formats and documents, and offers a simple and lightweight interface. Its large number of downloads makes it a favorite app for users, perfect for intensive use.

Recommended online tools and QR code generators

If you prefer not to install apps, there are free online QR code generators that work from any browser, whether on mobile or PC. They offer advanced customization options and allow you to download the QR code in PNG, SVG, and other formats.

• QR Code Monkey (qrcode-monkey.com/es): One of the most popular generators with customization options, logos, and high resolution.
• QR Code Generator (es.qr-code-generator.com): Supports multiple formats (URL, vCard, text, email, etc.), generating free and static QR codes.
• QRStuff: Allows you to create both static and dynamic QR codes, with a variety of data and advanced analysis options (freemium service).
• ForQRCode: Simple, no-registration generator to create unlimited QR codes in seconds.
• Scanova: Focused on businesses and marketing, it allows you to design aesthetic QR codes and monitor scans. It includes free trials and subscription options.
• adobe expressIf you already use Adobe tools, you can integrate QR code generation directly into your graphic designs and materials.

These platforms offer options for modifying colors, integrating images, and downloading high-quality images, making it easy to integrate QR codes into branding and advertising campaigns.

WordPress plugins to create QR codes on your website

Do you have a WordPress page and want to integrate QR codes quickly and easilyThere are plugins that allow you to create and display custom QR codes, including those for payments or forms:

• UPI QR Code Payment for WooCommerce: Add a QR payment option for online stores using WooCommerce, facilitating fast and secure transactions.
• Kaya QR Code Generator: Generate and customize QR codes directly from the editor—ideal for links, emails, or any text content. Size and color can be adjusted.
• Ultimate Shortcodes: Although known for its variety of shortcodes, it includes the ability to generate and add QR codes to any page or post with a simple shortcode.

Creative ideas and practical uses of QR codes

The QR codes are not just for marketing campaigns, you can take advantage of them in many more contexts:

• Sharing Wi-Fi with guestsGenerate a QR code with your login details and post it at home or at your business. That way, no one will ask you for the password again.
• Quick access to digital menus and cards: Essential in restaurants, bars or cafes to digitize the customer experience.
• Digital business cards (vCard): Allows you to share your contact information, website, and social media accounts at trade shows, events, or meetings with just a scan.
• Events and promotions: Share offers, concert tickets, or relevant product information via a QR code.
• Documents and downloads: Attach PDF files, catalogs, or manuals to printed materials, making them easy to download directly.
• Mobile payments and donationsMore and more businesses are implementing quick QR payments, especially in eCommerce and physical stores.
• Links to social networks and WhatsApp: A single QR code can direct you to social profiles, direct chats, or contact forms.

QR codes are a versatile and powerful solution to connect the offline and online worlds instantly. Whether you want to share information, boost your business, improve your customers' experience, or make everyday tasks easier, there are Free or paid applications and tools adapted to any needWith this guide, you can start creating and customizing your own QR codes from your mobile device in seconds, always ensuring the best experience and security for your users.

Frequently asked questions about creating QR codes from your mobile device

• Is it safe to create and share QR codes? Yes, as long as you use trusted apps and generators. Don't scan QR codes from unknown sources to avoid phishing or malware risks.
• Can I edit the content of a printed QR code? Only if it's a dynamic QR code (paid services); static QR codes can't be modified after creation.
• What formats can I download? Most apps allow you to save the code in PNG, SVG, or PDF.
• Do they work on all mobile phones? Yes, QR codes are universal and can be scanned by any smartphone with a camera.
• Can I generate QR codes without installing apps? Yes, using free online generators from your browser.