Quick answer: download PNG for websites, social media and documents; SVG for professional printing and design tools because it stays sharp at any size; and PDF when you want a ready-to-print page or to email the code. PAYATE QR gives you all three for free.
After creating a QR code, the last step — choosing the file format — decides whether it looks crisp on a billboard or blurry on a flyer. Here’s the difference in plain English.
PNG: best for screens
- A pixel (raster) image, supported everywhere: Word, PowerPoint, Canva, WhatsApp, Instagram, websites.
- Choose 1024 px for screens and small prints, 2048 px for larger prints.
- Don’t enlarge a small PNG: the edges become blurry and the code may fail.
- Rule of thumb for print: 300 pixels per inch — a 2048 px PNG prints sharp up to about 17 cm (6.8 in).
SVG: best for printing and design
- A vector file: shapes, not pixels. It stays perfectly sharp at any size, from a sticker to a building banner.
- Works in Illustrator, Inkscape, Figma, Canva (Pro), CorelDRAW and most print shops.
- Tiny file size and editable colors.
- PAYATE QR creates a true vector SVG — not a PNG wrapped in an SVG file, which many generators do.
PDF: best for ready-to-print pages
- An A4 page with your QR code centered, ready to print at home or send to a printer.
- Easy to attach to an email or share with a colleague who doesn’t use design software.
Quick comparison
| Use | Best format |
|---|---|
| Website, blog, social media post | PNG 1024 px |
| Word / PowerPoint document | PNG 1024 px |
| Business cards, flyers, menus (print shop) | SVG |
| Posters, banners, vehicle wraps | SVG |
| Print at home or send by email | |
| Paste into a chat or document fast | “Copy image” button |
Frequently asked questions
Can I open an SVG in Canva?
Yes, Canva supports SVG uploads. If your tool doesn’t, use the 2048 px PNG.
Does the format affect whether the QR code works?
No — the content is the same. The format only affects sharpness. Blurry codes are harder to scan, so use SVG or a large PNG for print.
Is there a watermark?
No. All formats are free, without watermark or sign-up.
See also: QR code size guide. Download yours: free QR code generator (PNG, SVG, PDF) →