Can You Generate QR Codes for Free?

Michelle Lawrence Picture

by Michelle Lawrence | Last Updated: Sep 7, 2023

Since 2020, the QR Code has made an incredible comeback. Consumers aren’t the only ones discovering their love for this technology; companies have been shown the high engagement rates QR Codes can provide and the potential ROI they can drive. 

Because of the incredible results QR Codes can generate for companies, specifically manufacturers, many businesses are looking into solutions for creating QR Codes for themselves. 

If you want to drive engagement and revenue for your business, discover the answer to “Can I make my own QR Code for free?” — and whether or not you should. 

How Do You Make a QR Code for a Link?

QR Codes, otherwise known as quick response (QR) codes, encode information in the form of a grid of square-shaped pixels and are easily readable by digital devices. QR Codes have been around for several decades now, and have become a common and easily recognizable feature in our surroundings. They can be spotted virtually everywhere, whether it’s on the entrances of buildings, printed materials, or product packaging.

Choosing the right QR Code generator can have a significant impact on the success of your marketing efforts, and there are plenty of both free and paid options available. Some of these include:

You can choose between static and dynamic QR Codes. There are pros and cons to both, but dynamic QR Codes are overall the better option because you can control them over time.

While there are several QR Code generators, manufacturers rely on Lumavate as their QR Code generator for their digital product experience. By using Lumavate’s Product Experience Management (PXM) Platform, manufacturers can centralize product data, manage digital assets, and create engaging digital product experiences for their customers all in one platform.

Can You Create a QR Code With a Logo?

In the world of QR Codes, there are two main categories: traditional QR Codes with standard designs and creative QR Codes that incorporate a company’s brand or logo into the QR Code aesthetic. 

The idea of branded QR Codes is gaining momentum as businesses recognize the benefits of this unique approach. The primary reason for doing this is brand recognition. By embedding a logo or brand element into the QR Code design, companies can instantly convey their identity and establish a visual connection with consumers.

For example, Coca-Cola's branded QR Code features its iconic red and white logo, enhancing its appeal and making it instantly recognizable to consumers. Similarly, Skittles has creatively integrated its rainbow-colored “S” into its QR Code, making it both engaging and on-brand.

While branded QR Codes can be a valuable asset, it’s important to note that it’s not a necessity for manufacturers unless they are running specific marketing campaigns that call for this level of customization.

Can You Generate QR Codes for Free?

A free QR Code generator is better suited to simple, one-time use cases. A free QR Code generator may suffice if your requirements are basic and you don’t need extensive customization, analytics, and support.

However, if you’re seeking to use a QR Code generator in large-scale campaigns or for high-value sales, investing in a paid QR Code generator can provide a significant advantage.

There are numerous free QR Code generators available online that simplify the process. Some well-known ones include QR Code Generator, QRStuff, and QRickit. These platforms enable users to quickly generate QR Codes for various purposes, from website links to contact information. However, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks, particularly for marketers at manufacturing companies. Free QR Code generators often lack advanced analytics features, making it challenging to track crucial data and user engagement.

What Is the Cost of a QR Code Generator?

Some options include Flowcode, QRFY, and QR Code Generator by Bitly. Flowcode, for instance, provides a free plan but also offers a paid version starting at $25 per month with additional features like analytics and custom branding. QRFY offers a range of pricing plans, with the basic free version suitable for simple QR Code generation. QR Code Generator by Bitly offers a free plan, with premium subscriptions starting at $9.99 per month, offering more customization options. However, it’s essential to note that regardless of the platform chosen, the primary output remains the same: a QR Code.

For manufacturers seeking a more comprehensive QR Code solution, Lumavate stands out as the ideal choice. Lumavate offers a unique and highly effective approach to QR Code generation that caters specifically to manufacturers. One of its standout features is its ability to generate individual QR Codes for each digital product experience created within its platform. This approach allows manufacturers to efficiently manage and track the performance of every product experience associated with their QR Codes.

Get Started with Lumavate

To discover how Lumavate can revolutionize your QR Code strategies and take your manufacturing business to new heights, schedule a demo today and embark on a journey toward enhanced customer engagement.

See Lumavate in Action

Meet with one of our experts to see how easy it is to centralize your product data, manage digital assets, and create digital product experiences. Trust us…you’re going to be wowed.