How to Fix Your QR Code Scanning Problems

QR codes make our lives easier by connecting the physical and digital worlds. However, no matter how reliable these popular 2D barcodes are, there is always a possibility of a technical glitch. One common issue is that they occasionally fail to scan. But why does that happen?

Sometimes, the QR codes are too small or dense, disproportionately sized, have a poor resolution, or link to a broken URL. Issues like these can disrupt QR code scanning, affecting user interactions and leading to utterly frustrating experiences. Plus, they can drastically impact your campaign performance! 

DO NOT panic! This article will explain the most common QR code scanning issues and the best solutions for each. Read on to learn more.

Common QR code scanning problems & their solutions

When the QR code is blurry

Blurriness significantly reduces a QR code’s clarity, making it difficult for smartphone cameras to detect and scan it.

Solution: If a QR code looks blurry or unclear, it might be caused by a low-resolution image. The best way to fix a blurry QR code is to increase its resolution to make it more scannable. Also, print the code in a high-resolution format such as PNG, JPG, or SVG. 

Incorrect or disproportionate size

One of the most common reasons for QR code scanning errors is incorrect sizing. The ideal size of codes varies for different promoting platforms. For instance, the code size in flyers or brochures will differ when used in billboards. However, the code should be visible and scannable from a reasonable distance.

QR codes with poor color contrast 

Poor color contrast impacts the visibility of a QR code and often leads to failed scans. Hence, the QR code must have a high color contrast to help the scanner distinguish between the QR code design and its background.  

Solution: For optimal scannability, use a light color (usually white) for the background and a darker color (usually black) for the foreground, which is the QR pattern. This helps users scan the code quickly and accurately, even in places with dim lighting. You can also select colors that perfectly align with your brand. Make sure they’re in striking contrast to each other, making the QR code more readable. 

Poor placement of QR codes

Strategic placement of QR codes is essential as it improves their scannability and makes them more easily accessible to users. However, if a QR code is poorly placed, people may struggle to scan it. 

For example, if it is positioned too low or too high or placed at a wrong angle, the user might get uncomfortable while scanning the code and get a blurry image. Moreover, if the code is placed on an uneven or shiny surface, the user might get a distorted or hazy image when they scan it.  

Solution: To prevent such scanning errors, avoid placing your QR codes at improper heights or angles. Also, avoid placing them on uneven, curved, and glossy/reflective surfaces, as well as in dark or poorly lit areas.  

When the QR code is damaged 

Printed QR codes are prone to physical damage such as tears or scratches, which could make it difficult for your scanning device to read them. 

Solution: To protect your QR codes against physical damage, choose high-quality and durable printing materials for products, billboards, etc. You can also use protective coatings such as UV-proof coatings to prevent sun damage. Moreover, avoid placing the QR codes in areas exposed to rough or extreme weather conditions.

Overcustomization of the QR code 

Sometimes, QR codes are overly customized, and excessive customization disturbs the pattern of the code, making it unreadable. Ideally, QR codes should have minimal customization for better readability and users’ convenience. 

Solution: Refrain from using complex QR code designs, patterns, or shapes that reduce scannability. Just adding brand color and logo is enough to engage audiences and increase the scan rate. 

Problem with your device’s camera 

Sometimes, a scanning error occurs due to a technical issue with the camera or compatibility problems with the device used to scan the QR code. 

Solution: Ensure the camera is fully functional and the lens is clean and free of dust and smudge. Also, ensure your device software is up to date and that there is proper lighting around the QR code when you scan it. If the camera sustains physical damage, get it repaired immediately.

Inactive QR codes or broken links 

Generally, QR codes expire after a specific period of time; however, it depends on the  QR code generation platform and your subscription plan. When your QR code expires without your knowledge, users cannot scan or access it, which can be quite disappointing. Also, often your QR codes link to a broken URL, which is another hindrance to the scanning process. 

Solution: Ensure your QR code generator plan is renewed to prevent QR code expiration. Also, to avoid broken links, always test the QR code before printing to check if the link embedded in the code is functional. 

Tips to avoid common QR code scanning problems 

Choose the best QR code generator: Go for the best, most reliable QR code generator platform, such as QRCodeChimp, which is easy to use and offers superior-quality QR codes.  

  Make dynamic QR codes: Always create dynamic QR codes as they are editable and you can easily fix any error and update them. 

Avoid overcrowding QR codes: Adding too much data or information to a QR code results in dense patterns, which lead to scanning issues. So, avoid overcrowding your QR codes to enhance readability. Also, ensure adequate white space around the code to facilitate scanning. 

Test QR code before printing or sharing: Always run a test scan before printing or sharing your QR codes to make sure it redirects to the intended content. 

Ensure scanning device compatibility: Check if the QR code format is compatible with most devices used for scanning. Testing them across different devices, including Android and iOS, is recommended to ensure universal compatibility.

Conclusion 

QR codes are a great technology that empowers businesses and marketers in numerous ways. However, mistakes like wrong sizing, poor placement, and overcustomization sometimes render them unscannable. When a user cannot scan a QR code, it frustrates them, negatively impacting your campaign performance. Hence, you must identify and troubleshoot such mistakes and errors as early as possible.

Follow the abovementioned solutions and tips to fix all QR code scanning problems and offer users a smooth and seamless scanning experience.

Frequently asked questions