At a glance
- Format written
- The link, with
https://added if missing - Picture formats recognised
- jpg, jpeg, png, gif, webp, avif, svg, bmp, tif, tiff
- Updates
- As you type
- Error correction
- Level M
What the code contains
A direct link to a picture
https://example.com/poster.jpg
The notes it shows
| When the link | The tool says |
|---|---|
| ends in a picture extension | How many characters it is, and to open it in a fresh tab and check you see the picture on its own. |
| does not | This does not end in an image file extension, so it is probably a page showing the image rather than the image itself. Right click the picture and copy image address instead. |
| is a Google Drive link | That our Drive generator rewrites it so the image previews properly. |
| is over 90 characters | That it is long and makes a dense code that needs printing larger. |
What it does not do
- It does not host your image.
- It cannot put the picture itself into the code; even a small photo is many times what the largest code holds.
What we tested
| Link | Grid | The tool says |
|---|---|---|
https://example.com/poster.jpg | 29 × 29 | 30 characters. Open it in a fresh tab first and check you see the picture on its own. |
| A Google Drive file link | 33 × 33 | That is a Google link. Our Drive generator rewrites it so the image previews properly. |
| A 114 character picture link | 45 × 45 | At 114 characters this is a long link, which makes a dense code that needs printing larger. |
Common mistakes
Linking to a gallery page instead of the picture
A page that shows the picture is fine to link to, but it loads slowly and may show adverts or a cookie banner first. A direct link ending in .jpg or .png opens the picture on its own.
A private Drive or cloud link
If the picture is only shared with you, everyone else sees a sign in page. Set the file to anyone with the link, then open the link in a private browser window to check. The Google Drive generator also rewrites the link so the picture previews properly.
Deleting or moving the picture later
The code only holds the address. Rename, move or delete the file and every printed code breaks. Keep the picture at the same address for as long as the code is in use.
Questions
Can a QR code show a picture without the internet?
No. The largest code holds 2,331 bytes at level M, far less than even a small photo. The phone needs a connection to load the picture from its link.
Where should I host the picture?
Your own website, or any service that gives a public link that does not change. Avoid links that expire, such as some file transfer services.
How do I check the link before printing?
Open it on your phone with WiFi off, using mobile data. If the picture appears on its own, the code will work for others too.