How To Generate QR Codes In SVG: A Complete Step-By-Step Guide

Say you’re planning on running a print media campaign. And to make it actionable for the audience, you want to add QR Codes to the print media creatives.

Hence, you’re looking for a QR Code generator that allows you to create the QR Code of your choice. And you’d want to download it in high-resolution formats.

A high-resolution format ensures that the QR Code remains scannable despite resizing it. That means you can use the same QR Code file for all your promotional material from billboards to flyers.

And you’d definitely want to ensure a smooth scanning experience for your audience across all the creatives.

Hence, you want to create SVG QR Code. But before we talk about how to do it, let’s see what exactly makes SVG suitable for you.

A. What are the common image formats

There are two major categories of image formats:

1. Raster formats

Did you know that you see images in raster formats on a daily basis? All the images that you see on your PC and smartphone screens are in raster formats. 

Basically, formats such as PNG, JPG, and JPEG are raster formats, And all of these are resolution-dependent. That means images in these formats come with defined dimensions. Say you download a QR Code image in raster format for your flyers. A couple of days later, you decide on adding it to billboards as well.

If you zoom in to the same QR Code image, it will get pixelated and won’t scan. Hence, while raster formats work well for screen resolutions, they are not really preferred for print resolutions.

This is where vector formats come into the picture.

2. Vector formats

Unlike raster formats, vector formats are not resolution-dependent. That means they don’t get pixelated no matter how much you zoom in or zoom out. 

Hence, it makes sense to use these formats for print media creatives. In fact, designers actually prefer to work with these formats. Some common vector formats include SVG, EPS, PDF, and PS.

Here is a quick comparison between raster and vector images.

These images were zoomed in. And as you can see, the image in PNG format started pixelating while that in the SVG format was still intact. 

B. QR Code image in SVG format

Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) format is designed for printing as well as web purposes. It could be anything such as logos, animations, drawings, and graphs.

SVG files are pure XML. That means you can easily handle them with HTML and CSS.

Plus, this format retains its quality no matter how much resizing is done. Hence, it is scalable and can be used for all editing and designing purposes. 

To generate a QR Code image in SVG format, you need a QR Code generator that offers this format.

But the question is—where can you find such a QR Code generator?

You can go to a search engine such as Google, type in the query “QR Code Generator with SVG format”, and compare the top results.

But would you visit each result manually to see which one would suit you the best? That will take a lot of your time and effort. 

So, to make it easier for you, here is a detailed comparison chart of the best QR Code generator. You can go through it to decide which one you’d like to go ahead with.

Learn all about how to make QR Codes in this ultimate guide.

C. How to create a QR Code in SVG format

Now you’ve seen why it makes sense to create a QR Code in SVG format. The next question—how to create one?

1. Decide on your QR Code category

Depending on what you’d want your end-users to see, you’ll have to choose an appropriate QR Code category.

For example, if you want to redirect them to your website, you need to select a Website URL QR Code. But if you want to show them the complete product information, you’d need to create a Product QR Code. Or if you want to give them discount coupons, you can create a Coupon QR Code.

Once decided on the QR Code category, you can head on to your chosen QR Code generator. 

2. Create a QR Code

Using Scanova QR Code generator for a demo, here is a step-by-step guide on how you can create a QR Code in SVG format:

a.Go to Scanova 

b.Select the most relevant QR Code category

c.Add the content you want to encode in the QR Code and click Continue

d.On the page that loads, name the QR Code and click Create QR Code

e.Now, you’ll see the preview of the QR Code along with the Edit design button. If you click on it, you’ll see two design options—Custom Logo Design and Custom Background Design

Custom Logo Design: It allows you to add your business’s logo and color to it. 

Custom Background Design: It helps you place your QR Code on any image.

f.Once you’ve decided on the design or no design, click Download. A window will open prompting you to sign-up for a 14-day free trial.

Note that you won’t have to enter your card details to sign up.

g.Once you’ve signed up, click on Download. Now, you’ll then have to specify the QR Code image’s format and size. Here, click on SVG under vector image formats followed by clicking on Export

That’s it. Your QR Code will be created.

D. How to edit the QR Code content

Did you know that you can edit the content encoded in the QR Code without having to create a new one? Well, a dynamic QR Code allows you to do that. 

Dynamic QR Codes are editable and trackable. That means you can edit the content encoded in it anytime you want without having to recreate the QR Code. Hence, no need to reprint them either.

To edit or make changes to the content encoded in your QR Code, you need to follow these steps:

1. Login to your Scanova account

2. From the dashboard, go to My QR Codes

3. Go to the QR Code you wish to make changes to and click on View/Edit

4. On the page that loads, head on to the content section and click View/Edit

5. Make the required changes

6. Once you’re done, click Apply

That’s it. Your QR Code will be updated. Hence, there is no need to reprint them again.

E. Use cases of QR Codes in SVG format

QRs in SVG format can be used in various scenarios where you need to encode and display machine-readable information in a scalable vector graphics format. 

Here are some common use cases:

1. Print media

QRs in SVG format can be embedded in print materials such as posters, flyers, business cards, and brochures. Since SVG is scalable, the QR can be printed at any size without losing quality, ensuring readability regardless of the medium’s size.

2. Digital marketing

QRs can be included in digital marketing materials such as email newsletters, online advertisements, or social media graphics. Users can scan the QR directly from their screens using their smartphones, leading them to a website, app, or promotional content.

3. Event tickets and passes

SVG QRs can be used as digital tickets or passes for events, concerts, conferences, or transportation services. Attendees can simply scan the code on their smartphones to gain entry, eliminating the need for physical tickets or passes.

4. Contactless payments

Businesses can integrate QRs into their payment systems, allowing customers to make contactless payments using mobile wallets or payment apps. The QR Code can encode payment information such as the transaction amount and recipient’s details, enabling quick and secure transactions.

5. Authentication and security

SVG QRs can be used for authentication and security purposes, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) or login verification. Users can scan the QR to generate a one-time passcode or verify their identity, adding an extra layer of security to online accounts or transactions.

6. Inventory management

QRs in SVG format can be used for inventory management in warehouses, retail stores, or manufacturing facilities. Each product or item can be assigned a unique QR containing information such as product details, serial numbers, or stock levels, making it easier to track and manage inventory.

7. Tourism and navigation

SVG QRs can be placed at tourist attractions, historical sites, or points of interest to provide visitors with additional information or navigation assistance. Scanning the QR can lead users to multimedia guides, maps, or augmented reality experiences, enhancing their overall tourism experience.

8. Educational resources

QRs in SVG format can be included in educational materials such as textbooks, worksheets, or presentations. Students can scan the QR to access additional resources, videos, interactive quizzes, or online study materials related to the topic being taught.

9. Medical and healthcare

SVG QRs can be used in the healthcare industry for patient identification, medication management, or accessing medical records. Each patient or medication can be assigned a unique QR code, allowing healthcare providers to quickly retrieve relevant information using mobile devices or scanners.

10. Product packaging

QRs in SVG format can be printed on product packaging to provide consumers with product information, usage instructions, or promotional offers. Scanning the QR can also lead users to customer support services, warranty information, or user manuals, enhancing the overall customer experience.

F. How brands are using SVG QR Codes

Brands are leveraging SVG QRs in various innovative ways to enhance marketing efforts, improve customer engagement, and streamline operations. 

Here are some examples of how brands are using SVG QRs:

1. Packaging and labeling

Brands are incorporating SVG QRs into product packaging and labeling to provide consumers with additional information about the product, such as ingredients, nutritional facts, usage instructions, and origin. This allows consumers to access detailed information quickly by scanning the code with their smartphones while shopping.

2. Interactive print ads

Brands are embedding SVG QRs into print advertisements in magazines, newspapers, and posters to create interactive experiences for consumers. These QRs can lead consumers to product demos, promotional videos, exclusive offers, or online purchase options, bridging the gap between print and digital media.

3. In-store displays

Retailers are using SVG QR codes on in-store displays and signage to engage customers and drive sales. These QR codes can provide shoppers with product reviews, styling tips, or virtual try-on experiences, enhancing the overall shopping experience and encouraging purchase decisions.

4. Event promotion

Brands are utilizing SVG QRs to promote events such as product launches, store openings, or promotional campaigns. These QRs can be shared on social media, email newsletters, or physical invitations, allowing attendees to RSVP, access event details, or redeem special offers by scanning the code.

5. Customer feedback and surveys

Brands are using SVG QRs to collect customer feedback and conduct surveys. By placing QRs on receipts, product packaging, or marketing materials, brands can encourage customers to provide feedback on their experiences, products, or services, helping them gather valuable insights and improve customer satisfaction.

6. Mobile payments and loyalty programs

Brands are integrating SVG QRs into mobile payment systems and loyalty programs to facilitate seamless transactions and reward loyal customers. Customers can scan QRs at checkout to make payments, earn loyalty points, or redeem rewards, providing a convenient and personalized shopping experience.

7. Digital menus and ordering

Restaurants and cafes are adopting SVG QRs for digital menus and ordering systems, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Customers can scan QRs displayed on tables or signage to view menus, place orders, and make payments using their smartphones, minimizing physical contact and enhancing safety.

8. Tourism and destination marketing

Tourism boards and travel agencies are using SVG QRs to promote destinations and attractions to travelers. These QRs can lead travelers to interactive maps, virtual tours, booking portals, or local guides, helping them plan their trips and explore new destinations more effectively.

9. Product authentication and anti-counterfeiting

Brands are leveraging SVG QRs for product authentication and anti-counterfeiting measures. Each product is assigned a unique QR that contains authentication information or a digital signature, allowing consumers to verify the authenticity of the product by scanning the code with their smartphones.

10.Sustainability and traceability

Brands are using SVG QRs to communicate their sustainability efforts and supply chain transparency to consumers. QRs on product packaging or labels can provide information about eco-friendly practices, sourcing origins, and recycling instructions, empowering consumers to make informed purchasing decisions aligned with their values.

G. When to use SVG QR Codes over PNG

Choosing between SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) and PNG (Portable Network Graphics) formats for QRs depends on the specific requirements and use case. 

Here are some considerations to help you decide when to choose SVG QRs over PNGs:

1. Scalability

SVG QRs are vector graphics, which means they can be scaled to any size without loss of quality. If you need to print QRs on various materials at different sizes, SVG is the preferred format as it ensures crisp and clear images regardless of the scaling factor.

2. Print quality

For high-resolution printing applications such as posters, billboards, or large banners, SVG QRs are preferable because they maintain sharpness and clarity even at larger sizes. PNGs may lose quality when scaled up, resulting in pixelation or blurriness.

3. File size

SVG files tend to be smaller in size compared to PNGs, especially for complex images or graphics. If file size is a concern, SVG QRs can offer better performance and faster loading times, making them suitable for web applications or digital media where bandwidth or storage space is limited.

4. Customization

SVG QRs allow for more flexibility and customization options compared to PNGs. You can easily modify colors, shapes, and other graphical elements of the QR using CSS or JavaScript, enabling you to integrate QRs seamlessly into your branding or design aesthetic.

5. Interactivity

SVG QRs support interactivity and dynamic effects, making them ideal for interactive applications or multimedia experiences. You can incorporate hover effects, animations, or clickable elements into SVG QRs to engage users and enhance the overall user experience.

6. Accessibility

SVG QRs can be easily accessible and compatible with assistive technologies such as screen readers or magnifiers, as they contain structured and semantic markup. If accessibility is a priority for your project, SVG QR codes provide a more inclusive solution compared to PNGs.

7. Cross-platform compatibility

SVG is a widely supported format across modern web browsers and devices, ensuring consistent rendering and compatibility across different platforms. If your QRs need to be displayed on various devices or operating systems, SVGs offer broader compatibility compared to PNGs.

In summary, choose SVG QR codes over PNGs when you require scalability, print quality, smaller file sizes, customization options, interactivity, accessibility, and cross-platform compatibility for your specific project or use case.

H. Best practices 

Besides using a high-resolution image, here are some best practices that you should be aware of while using a QR Code:

When creating SVG QRs, it’s essential to follow best practices to ensure optimal functionality, readability, and compatibility across different platforms and devices. 

Here are some best practices for SVG QRs:

1. Use a reliable QR Code generator

Choose a reputable QR generator tool that produces high-quality SVG output. Ensure the generator supports the customization options and error correction levels you require for your QRs.

2. Maintain sufficient contrast

Ensure there is enough contrast between the QR’s foreground (usually black squares) and background to ensure readability. Avoid using colors that are too similar, as they may cause scanning issues, especially in low-light conditions.

3. Choose the right error correction level

Select an appropriate error correction level based on your requirements. Higher error correction levels increase the QR’s resilience to damage or distortion but also increase its size. Choose a balance between error correction and data density.

4. Provide adequate quiet zone

Leave sufficient space, known as the “quiet zone,” around the QR to prevent interference from other graphical elements or text. The quiet zone should be at least four times the width of the QR’s modules (the black squares).

5. Optimize size and complexity

Keep the SVG QR’s size and complexity as minimal as possible while maintaining readability. Simplify the encoded data when feasible, and avoid unnecessary graphical elements or details that increase file size without adding value.

6. Ensure scalability

SVG QRs should be scalable to any size without loss of quality. Test the QR at different sizes to ensure readability, especially for applications where the QR may be printed or displayed at varying dimensions.

7. Test across devices and platforms

Verify the SVG QR Code’s functionality and compatibility across different devices, browsers, and operating systems. Test scanning under various conditions, such as different lighting and scanning distances, to ensure reliable performance.

8. Include encoding metadata

Embed metadata within the SVG QR to specify the encoding format, error correction level, and other relevant information. This can help ensure proper decoding and compatibility with different QR readers.

9. Comply with standards and specifications

Adhere to industry standards and specifications for SVG format and QR encoding to ensure interoperability and compatibility with a wide range of applications and devices.

10. Regularly update and maintain

Regularly review and update your SVG QRs to reflect any changes in data or design requirements. Monitor performance and address any issues or errors promptly to ensure a positive user experience.

I. FAQs: SVG QR Code

1. How do I add a QR Code to SVG?

To add a QR code to an SVG file:

• Generate the QR in SVG format using an online generator.
•  Open your SVG file in an editor.
• Insert the QR SVG using an `<image>` element.
• Adjust dimensions and positioning as needed.
• Save and test the SVG file’s appearance and functionality.

2. Should QR Code be PNG or SVG?

Choose PNG for simplicity and compatibility in raster-based applications. Opt for SVG for scalability, customization, accessibility, and interactivity. Consider project needs when deciding between the two formats. Create an SVG QR Code through an SVG QR Code generator.

3. How to enlarge an SVG QR Code?

To enlarge a QR code:

• Generate the QR.
• Download the QR file.
• Open it in an image editor or vector graphics editor.
• Resize the QR to the desired dimensions.
• Save the resized QR.
• Test its functionality with a QR scanner.

4. What is SVG in QR Code?

SVG in QR Code refers to the use of Scalable Vector Graphics format to represent the QR. SVG offers scalability, customization, interactivity, and accessibility.

Summing up

Now, you know everything about image formats—both raster and vector. And how to create QR Codes in SVG format using a QR Code generator.

You can now go ahead and create your very own high-resolution QR Code.

Always choose a reputable QR Code service provider