QR code decoder
Read the content out of any QR code image. Upload a file, paste a screenshot, or point it at an image URL — the ZXing WebAssembly decoder runs inside this page, so the image you decode never leaves your machine.
Three ways to feed it an image
all decode locallyWhen a QR code will not decode
QR decoding, explained
10 entriesOur QR decoder supports all common image formats including PNG, JPG/JPEG, GIF, BMP, and WebP. PNG format typically provides the best results due to its lossless compression. The maximum file size is 10MB.
There are several reasons why a QR code might not be detected: • Poor image quality or low resolution • Insufficient contrast between the QR code and background • QR code is too small within the image (should occupy at least 25% of the image) • Image is rotated or skewed • QR code is damaged, blurred, or partially obscured • Poor lighting conditions when the photo was taken For best results, ensure the QR code is clearly visible, well-lit, and takes up a significant portion of the image.
You can upload images in three ways: 1. File upload: open the Upload tab and either click the drop area to browse or drag and drop your image straight into it. 2. Paste from clipboard: open the Paste tab, click in the paste area and press Ctrl+V (or Cmd+V on Mac) to paste a copied image. 3. URL: open the URL tab and enter a direct link to an image file hosted online.
Yes, you can decode QR codes from online images by using the URL method. Simply paste the direct link to the image file. However, please note: • The URL must point directly to an image file (not a webpage containing an image) • The image must be publicly accessible • Some websites may have CORS (Cross-Origin Resource Sharing) restrictions that prevent access • Data URLs (base64 encoded images) are fully supported If you encounter CORS issues, try downloading the image and uploading it directly instead.
Image decoding happens locally in your browser; the image is not uploaded. If you choose redirect checking, the URL is temporarily stored in this tab and removed when the checker reads it. Our server requests that URL only when you start the trace. Avoid submitting URLs containing private access tokens.
QR codes can contain various types of data: • URLs: website links, which can be opened directly from the results • Plain text: any text content, messages, or information • Contact information: vCard format with phone numbers, emails, addresses • WiFi credentials: network name and password for easy connection • Email addresses: with optional subject and body text • Phone numbers: for direct calling • SMS messages: pre-filled text messages • Geographic coordinates: location data for maps • Cryptocurrency addresses: for payments and transactions Our decoder displays all content types and provides appropriate action buttons (like 'Open URL' for web links).
To improve detection accuracy, follow these best practices: Image quality: • Use high-resolution images (at least 300x300 pixels) • Ensure good lighting and contrast • Avoid blurry or out-of-focus images • Use PNG format when possible Composition: • Crop the image so the QR code fills at least 25% of the frame • Ensure the QR code is straight and not rotated • Remove any shadows or glare • Maintain the white border around the QR code Technical tips: • If the QR code appears inverted, try adjusting the image brightness • For printed QR codes, scan at a 90-degree angle • Clean the camera lens if taking photos with a mobile device
Currently, our decoder processes one QR code at a time and will return the first QR code it detects in the image. If your image contains multiple QR codes: • The decoder will identify the most prominent or clearest QR code • To decode specific QR codes, crop the image to focus on one QR code at a time • This ensures better accuracy and faster processing For batch processing of multiple QR codes, you'll need to upload each image separately or crop them into individual images.
If you encounter errors, try these troubleshooting steps: Common solutions: • Refresh the page and try again • Check that your image file is not corrupted • Ensure the file size is under 10MB • Try a different image format (PNG recommended) • Check your internet connection for URL-based decoding Browser issues: • Clear your browser cache and cookies • Try using a different browser • Disable browser extensions that might interfere • Ensure JavaScript is enabled Image issues: • Verify the image actually contains a QR code • Try enhancing the image contrast manually • Ensure the QR code is not damaged or incomplete If problems persist, the QR code may be corrupted or the image quality may be too poor for reliable detection.
Yes, our QR decoder is fully optimized for mobile devices and works on: • Mobile browsers: Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge on iOS and Android • Touch interface: optimized for touch interactions and mobile screens • Camera integration: you can take photos directly and upload them • Clipboard support: copy and paste images from other mobile apps • Responsive design: the interface adapts to different screen sizes The mobile experience includes all the same features as the desktop version, with touch-friendly controls and mobile-optimized file selection.