QR Code Not Scanning?

Your QR code looks good but won’t scan? Here are the most common culprits and how to fix them.

Use the Scannability Score

Before troubleshooting, check your code’s Scannability Score. In the Qrius editor, you’ll see a score from 0–100. It analyzes contrast, size, logo coverage, and other factors that affect scanability.

Aim for a score above 75. If you’re below that, the color or logo customizations are probably the issue.

Problem: Low Contrast Colors

Why it fails: Black code on dark gray background? Your phone’s camera can’t tell the code from the background.

Fix:

• Use high contrast — dark code on light background, or light code on dark background.
• Stick with pure black on white as your fallback if custom colors don’t work.
• Avoid using a light color for the dots. Even if it looks cool, scanners hate it.
• Test on your phone’s camera before printing or deploying.

In Qrius: See your scannability score drop? That’s usually low contrast. Adjust the Colors panel and watch the score climb.

Problem: Logo Covers Too Much

Why it fails: A large logo blocks the data-bearing part of the code.

Fix:

• Keep your logo small — under 30% of the total code size.
• Make sure your logo has a light or dark background inside the code (not transparent).
• Logos work best in the center of the code.
• Test the code with your logo applied before going live.

In Qrius: The scannability score drops when your logo’s too big. Reduce the logo size in the Logo panel.

Problem: Code Too Small

Why it fails: A code that’s 1cm × 1cm is hard for cameras to lock onto, especially from a distance.

Fix:

• Print or display your code at least 2cm × 2cm (roughly 1 inch).
• Larger is better — 5cm × 5cm is ideal for posters and flyers.
• If scanning from a distance (billboard), make it even bigger.

Tip: Your code’s size depends on context. A phone screen can show smaller codes. Print media needs bigger codes.

Problem: Error Correction Level Too Low

Why it fails: QR codes have built-in error correction. If it’s set too low, any damage or obstruction breaks the scan.

Fix:

• In Qrius, go to Customize and check the Error Correction setting.
• Choose H (High) if possible — it can handle up to 30% damage.
• M (Medium) or Q (Quartile) work for most cases.
• L (Low) is risky — only use it if scannability isn’t an issue.

In Qrius: The scannability score reflects error correction. Higher correction = smaller code size but more resilience.

Problem: Print Quality

Why it fails: Bad print quality, faded ink, or creased paper kills scans.

Fix:

• Print on a good printer — inkjet and laser both work.
• Use quality paper — avoid flimsy, cheap stock.
• Don’t print too small — see “Code Too Small” above.
• Avoid folding or creasing the code.
• If possible, laminate printed codes to protect them from damage.

Test: Print a test code and scan it before committing to a large print run.

Problem: Dirty or Damaged Surface

Why it fails: A scratched, faded, or dirty code is unreadable.

Fix:

• Keep your code clean — wipe off dust or smudges.
• If laminating, use clear laminate so the code stays visible.
• Avoid exposing codes to sunlight for long periods (fading).
• In harsh environments (outdoor signage), check codes periodically for damage.

Problem: Camera Focus Issues (Mobile Phone)

Why it fails: Your phone’s camera can’t focus on the code.

Fix:

• Make sure your phone’s camera is clean — dust blocks focus.
• Move the phone 2–5 cm away from the code (not too close).
• Keep the code parallel to your phone screen (flat against the surface).
• Use good lighting — avoid glare or shadows on the code.
• Try the native camera app first, not a third-party QR reader (they can be finicky).

Test: Open your phone’s camera and point it at the code. You should see a yellow border appear when the code is in focus. Tap the code to lock focus if needed.

Problem: Wrong Destination Set

Why it fails: The code scans but goes to the wrong URL.

Fix:

• In Qrius, open your QR code and check the Destination URL.
• Make sure it’s correct — including https:// if needed.
• Test the URL in your browser first to confirm it works.
• If you edited the code recently, make sure your changes saved (look for the save indicator).

Problem: Code Expired or Deactivated

Why it fails: The code was deleted or paused.

Fix:

• In your Qrius dashboard, check if the code is Active or Paused.
• If it’s paused, click it and toggle Active back on.
• If you deleted it accidentally, it’s gone — create a new one.

Still Not Scanning?

• Take a screenshot of your code and test it on your computer (zoom in, use your phone’s camera).
• Try a different phone — different cameras and OS versions scan differently.
• Check the scannability score in Qrius — if it’s below 75, colors or logo are the issue.

Still stuck? Contact support and send us a screenshot. We’ll help debug.