Answers to the most common questions about the free PAYATE QR Code Generator and QR Code Scanner.
General
Is PAYATE QR really free?
Yes. It is 100% free with no sign-up, no watermark, no subscription and no scan limits. You may use the codes for personal and commercial projects.
Do my QR codes expire?
No. PAYATE QR creates static QR codes. The content is stored inside the code itself, so it keeps working forever. It only stops working if the website or data it points to changes.
What is the difference between static and dynamic QR codes?
A static QR code contains the final content (for example your URL) directly. A dynamic QR code contains a short redirect link owned by the QR provider, which lets you change the destination later and count scans — but it stops working if the provider shuts it down or your plan ends. PAYATE QR makes static codes for maximum reliability and privacy.
Can I edit a QR code after printing it?
No, the content of a static code cannot change. Tip: point the code to a page you control (for example your website’s menu page); then you can update that page any time without reprinting.
Is my data private?
Yes. Everything is generated in your browser. Links, Wi-Fi passwords, contacts and logos are never uploaded to PAYATE servers.
Creating QR codes
How do I make a Wi-Fi QR code?
Choose Wi-Fi, enter the network name (SSID) exactly as it appears, pick the security type (usually WPA/WPA2) and type the password. iPhone and Android cameras will offer to join the network when scanned.
How do I make a WhatsApp QR code?
Choose WhatsApp, enter your number with country code (digits only, e.g. 201001234567) and an optional welcome message. Scanning opens a chat with you in WhatsApp.
How do I create a vCard (business card) QR code?
Choose vCard and fill in your name, company, phone, email, website and address. When scanned, the phone offers to save you as a contact.
Can I add my logo?
Yes. Open Design & colors and upload a PNG, JPG, SVG or WebP logo. The error correction switches to High automatically and the modules behind the logo are cleared so the code stays scannable.
Which colors can I use?
Any colors, but always use a dark code on a light background with strong contrast. The tool warns you when the contrast is too low or the colors are inverted.
What does error correction mean?
It is the amount of the code that can be damaged or covered and still scan: Low 7%, Medium 15%, Quartile 25%, High 30%. Higher levels make denser codes. Use Medium for most uses and High with a logo or for outdoor printing.
Downloading and printing
PNG, SVG or PDF — which should I choose?
PNG for websites, documents and social media; SVG (vector) for professional printing and design tools such as Illustrator, Canva or Figma; PDF for a ready-to-print A4 page.
How big should a printed QR code be?
At least 2 × 2 cm (0.8 × 0.8 in). As a rule, the width should be about one tenth of the scanning distance — 10 cm for a poster scanned from 1 meter.
My QR code does not scan. What should I check?
Check the contrast (dark on light), keep the white border (quiet zone), make it bigger, shorten the content, avoid glossy or curved surfaces, and try error correction High. Always test with two different phones before printing.
QR code scanner
How do I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
Open the QR Code Scanner, then upload the image, drag and drop it, or paste the screenshot with Ctrl + V. The content appears instantly with buttons to copy it or open the link.
Is it safe to open links from QR codes?
Always check the address before opening it, and never enter passwords or payment details on a site you reached from an unknown QR code (a scam known as “quishing”).
Still have a question? Contact us.