Free Online QR Code Scanner
Decode QR codes directly in your browser with a camera or saved image.
No app installation or signup required.
- No ads
- No signup
- No app install
- Free forever
- Decodes QR + 1D barcodes
A free alternative to ScanApp, ScanQR, and Scanbot for browser-based QR code scanning, with a practical safety checklist.
Initializing Scanner...
A QR code scanner is a tool that decodes the data embedded in a QR code's matrix of squares. The result is the raw encoded text, which may be a URL, a WiFi payload, a vCard, an email or SMS link, event data, or plain text. QRLynx's online scanner uses your device camera or an uploaded image in your browser, with no app installation required. ISO/IEC 18004 specifies the QR symbol, not application-specific WiFi or contact fields. Use this tool to preview a URL before opening it or copy the decoded text for use in another app. Common 1D barcode decoding depends on the browser decoder.
Before you scan: a 60-second safety check
Per the FBI's IC3 advisory, criminals tamper with physical QR codes to redirect victims to phishing sites, steal login or financial information, and embed malware downloads. Use this scanner to preview the destination URL before clicking, then check the domain.
- Check for sticker tampering on physical codes (parking meters, restaurant tables, posters)
- Match printed text to decoded URL: the printed label is paint, only what the scanner decodes is real
- Verify login and payment requests: enter details only when you expected the request and have checked the genuine website domain or official app.
Full 5-step checklist with Canadian Cyber Centre, Kaspersky and Duke citations in the Safety section below.
How to Scan QR Codes Online
Follow these simple steps to decode any QR code immediately using your device.
Choose Your Input
Select 'Scan with Camera' for live scanning or 'Upload Image' if you have a saved file or screenshot.
Align the QR Code
For camera mode, hold your device steady and center the QR code in the square frame. For uploads, ensure the image is clear.
Get Instant Results
The decoder displays the encoded text when it can read the image. You can copy the result or open a decoded web link after checking it.
Understanding QR Code Technology
QR (Quick Response) codes, standardized under ISO/IEC 18004, have become an essential part of our digital lives, bridging the gap between the physical and digital worlds. Whether you're accessing a restaurant menu, connecting to WiFi, or making a payment, a QR Code Scanner is the tool you need.
What makes our Online Scanner different?
Traditional QR scanning often requires downloading specific mobile apps. QRLynx eliminates this barrier by providing a free, browser-based scanner. This means you can scan codes directly from Chrome, Safari, or Firefox without installing extra software. It utilizes the MediaDevices API to request camera access. Camera availability and scan quality vary by device, browser, and lighting.
Supported QR Code Data Types
A QR code can carry many kinds of text. The DENSO Wave QR specification defines the symbol, while applications choose their own payload formats. The table shows examples of text the scanner can display. Prefixes and downstream app behavior vary by producer:
| QR type | Raw format prefix | What the scanner reveals |
|---|---|---|
| URL / Website | http://, https:// | Destination URL, verify before clicking |
| WiFi | WIFI:T:WPA;S:..;P:..;; | Raw WiFi configuration text; copy to inspect its fields |
| vCard (Contact) | BEGIN:VCARD ... END:VCARD | Raw vCard text; copy to use in a contacts app |
| MeCard | MECARD:N:..;TEL:..;; | Raw MeCard text |
| SMS | SMSTO: or sms: | Raw SMS payload text |
| mailto: or MATMSG: | Raw email payload text | |
| Phone | tel: | Raw phone payload text |
| Calendar Event | BEGIN:VEVENT ... END:VEVENT | Raw event payload text; copy to use in a calendar app |
| Geographic / Maps | geo:lat,lng | Raw location payload text |
| Cryptocurrency | bitcoin:, ethereum:, ... | Raw payment payload text; verify before using |
| App Store | https://apps.apple.com/... | App Store URL, verify before opening |
| https://u.wechat.com/, weixin://, https://weixin.qq.com/r/ | Raw WeChat link or payload text; app-specific action is not guaranteed | |
| Alipay | https://qr.alipay.com/, alipay://, https://intl.alipay.com/ | Raw Alipay link or payload text |
| Plain Text | (any non-prefixed text) | Arbitrary text content: notes, codes, messages |
Common 1D barcode formats, where supported by the browser decoder: UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, Code 39, Code 128 (per GS1 standards).
Troubleshooting Scanning Issues
If you're having trouble scanning, try these tips:
- Ensure there is sufficient lighting on the QR code.
- Avoid glare or shadows on the code surface.
- Hold your device steady to allow the camera to focus.
- Clean your camera lens if it's smudged.
- For files, ensure the image isn't too blurry or pixelated.
Advanced Scanning Features
More than just a scanner. We provide a complete suite of tools for your QR needs.
Browser QR Scanner
Scan with your camera directly in a supported browser, with no separate app installation. If camera access is unavailable, upload an image instead.
Secure & Privacy-First
Camera and image decoding runs in your browser. This tool does not upload the camera feed or scanned image to QRLynx for decoding. Review the decoded content before opening a link.
Four Ways to Scan
Use your webcam, upload an image file (PNG, JPG, WebP, BMP), drag & drop multiple images at once, or paste a screenshot directly with Ctrl+V, whichever fits your workflow.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Use a supported browser on phone, tablet, or desktop. Camera scanning depends on browser permission and device hardware; image upload is another option.
Browser-Based Decoding
The scanner uses html5-qrcode for camera and image scans, with a jsQR fallback for images that need another decoding pass. Decoder behavior can vary by browser and image quality.
Bulk Image Decode
Drop or upload multiple images at once and we decode each one sequentially with per-row status, a copy button per result, and CSV export when the batch finishes. Useful for verifying a print run, auditing a folder of saved screenshots, or processing campaign assets.
Local Scan History
Your last 50 scans are kept in your browser's localStorage so you can re-copy a code you decoded earlier. Stays entirely on your device, never sent to our servers. Copy, delete, or clear individual entries from the 'Recent Scans' panel.
Camera Flashlight
On Android devices that expose the MediaTrack torch capability (most modern Chrome / Edge rear cameras), tap the Flashlight button while scanning to light up the QR code in dim conditions. Auto-off when you stop scanning.
Multi-Camera Switching
Phones and tablets with more than one camera get a Switch Camera button below the viewfinder. Choose another available camera without leaving the scanner page when the default camera can't focus on a tiny QR.
Real-World Applications
See how raw QR decoding can support different tasks.
Digital Menus & Restaurants
Instantly access contactless menus at restaurants, cafes, and bars without waiting for a server.
Event Entry & Boarding
Read the encoded ticket or invitation data before using the issuer's validation process.
Read WiFi Details
Read and copy the raw WiFi QR payload, then inspect its network details before connecting.
Product Barcode Reading
Read the encoded barcode value. Product details and prices require a separate lookup.
Cryptocurrency & Payments
Read a crypto address or payment request as text, then verify it before using a wallet app.
Contact vCards
Read and copy vCard or MeCard text for use in a contacts app.
How to Scan QR Codes on iPhone, Android, and Desktop
Many phones can scan a printed QR code with their Camera app or a built-in code scanner. Use QRLynx when you want to upload a saved screenshot, preview a URL before opening it, or copy raw WiFi, vCard, or event text. Windows Camera can also scan QR codes on devices with a camera.
How to scan a QR code on iPhone
- Open the built-in Camera app (iOS 11 or later).
- Point the camera at the QR code. No photo is needed.
- Tap the yellow banner or link that appears.
How to scan a QR code on Android
- Open the Camera app or Google Lens (Android 9 or later).
- Hold the camera steady over the QR code.
- Tap the link or action that pops up.
How to scan a QR code on Windows or Mac
- Use the scanner at the top of this page.
- Allow webcam access, or upload a screenshot of the code.
- Copy the decoded text or preview the URL before opening.
See also: scan QR codes on Windows and scanning in Microsoft Edge and Copilot.
| Device | Native scan method | Native limits | QRLynx scanner adds |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone (iOS 11+) | Open Camera app → point at QR code → tap the link banner | Camera scanning needs a clear view of the printed or on-screen code. | Upload a saved screenshot or photo in a supported browser without using the camera. |
| Android (browser support varies) | Open Camera app or Google Lens → point at QR code → tap the result | Default Camera detection varies by manufacturer (Samsung / Pixel / OnePlus). | Upload a saved image in a supported browser; camera permission is needed for live scanning. |
| Mac / Windows / Linux Desktop | Windows Camera can scan codes with a webcam; other desktop apps vary. | A webcam or a saved image is needed, depending on the tool. | Drag and drop a screenshot or use a webcam in a supported browser. |
| iPad / Android Tablet | Same as phone: Camera app on iPad, Camera/Lens on Android. | Awkward to hold a tablet up to a printed QR code. | Upload a photo you already took on your phone via AirDrop / sync. |
Reference: Apple Support: Scan a QR code with iPhone. Android scanning behavior varies by manufacturer; Google Lens is the most reliable cross-vendor option.
Are QR Codes Safe to Scan?
QR codes themselves cannot infect your phone: they are passive square-matrix images that encode text. The risk is what the encoded content does once decoded. Three real attack patterns to watch for: quishing (a malicious URL that redirects to a phishing site), sticker tampering (a sticker placed over a legitimate QR code on a parking meter, restaurant table, or poster), and SMS / email pre-fill scams (a QR code that opens your messaging app pre-filled with a premium SMS number or a payment request).
The threat is meaningful but bounded: Canadian Centre for Cyber Security explains how a QR code can conceal a phishing destination. Preview the decoded URL and check the domain before opening a page or entering credentials. Kaspersky's QR safety guide and Duke University Information Security both recommend the same defense pattern.
Five-Step QR Safety Checklist
- Preview the URL before clicking: upload the QR to our online scanner first; the decoded URL is shown without opening it.
- Check for sticker tampering: physically inspect printed QR codes (parking meters, posters, restaurant tables) for a sticker placed over the original.
- Match the printed text to the decoded URL: the human-readable label next to a QR is just printed paint; only what the scanner decodes is real.
- Use a trusted route for sensitive actions: if a login or payment request is unexpected, open the service directly through a trusted address or its official app. Confirm the payment recipient before paying.
- Use a scanner you trust: your phone's built-in camera is a convenient option for printed codes. Avoid installing an unknown scanning app just to read a QR code, as advised by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Online QR Code Scanner really free?
Yes, QRLynx's Online QR Code Scanner is completely free to use for both personal and commercial purposes. There are no scan limits, no hidden fees, and no account registration required to use the basic scanning features.
Do I need to download an app to scan QR codes?
No app installation is required. Open the scanner in a supported browser, allow camera access for live scanning, or upload a saved image. Availability depends on the device and browser.
Is it safe to scan QR codes online?
Camera and image decoding run in your browser. The tool does not upload the video feed or image file to QRLynx for decoding. Check the decoded URL before opening an unfamiliar destination.
What types of QR codes and barcodes can I scan?
The scanner shows the text encoded in supported QR codes, including URLs, WiFi payloads, vCards, email, SMS, and plain text. It can also read common 1D barcodes when the browser decoder supports the format. It does not look up product prices.
Why isn't my camera working?
Camera access might be blocked. Please ensure you've clicked 'Allow' when the browser asked for permission. On iOS/Android: Go to Settings > Privacy > Camera and check your browser permissions. On Desktop: Check the lock icon in the address bar to manage site permissions.
Can I scan a QR code from a picture or screenshot?
Yes! Switch to the 'Upload Image' tab on the scanner. You can upload any screenshot, photo, or saved image file (PNG, JPG, WEBP, BMP). Our advanced algorithm will locate and decode the code even if it's slightly blurry or angled.
Do you save a history of my scanned codes?
The scanner keeps up to 50 recent results in your browser's localStorage so you can copy them again. This history is stored on the device, not in a QRLynx account. You can delete individual entries or clear the list in Recent Scans. Clearing browser site data also removes the local history.
Why is the scanner not detecting my code?
If the scanner is struggling, try these troubleshooting tips: Move your camera closer or further away to find focus. Ensure there is sufficient lighting on the QR code. Clean your camera lens. If uploading an image, try cropping it to just the QR code area.
Can I scan WiFi QR codes to get the password?
Yes. If the WiFi QR uses a text payload such as WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;;, the scanner displays that raw text. You can copy it, inspect the fields, and connect through your device settings. Do not share the payload if it contains a private password.
What does WIFI:T:WPA;S:... mean, is that the raw QR data?
WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;H:false;; is one commonly used WiFi QR text payload. T indicates a security type, S the network name, P a password, and H a hidden-network flag. QRLynx shows the raw payload rather than separate parsed fields. ISO/IEC 18004 specifies the QR symbol and encoding, not a required WiFi payload syntax.
How do I scan a vCard or contact QR code and save it to my phone?
Scan the vCard QR code or upload a saved image to view and copy the encoded contact text. Use your contacts app's supported import workflow to save the contact.
Can I see the destination URL of a QR code before I click it?
Yes. Upload a screenshot or photo and the scanner displays the decoded URL without opening it. Check the full destination and its spelling before choosing Open Link, particularly for a code on a public surface.
How do I scan a calendar event from a QR code?
Scan an event QR to view and copy its encoded calendar text, such as a BEGIN:VEVENT payload. Use a compatible calendar app's import workflow to add supported event data.
Are QR codes safe? Can a QR code give my phone a virus?
QR codes store data, often a link. Risks come from acting on harmful destinations or content, including phishing pages, malicious downloads and pre-filled SMS or email scams. QRLynx lets you preview the decoded URL or text before acting. Check physical codes for stickers covering the original. Enter login or payment details only when you expected the request and have verified the genuine website domain or official app. If unsure, open the service directly through a trusted address or its official app, and confirm the recipient before paying.
Should I use my phone's built-in camera or your scanner?
Your phone's camera or code scanner is convenient for printed codes. Use QRLynx when you want to upload a saved image, view the raw payload before opening a URL, copy WiFi/vCard/event text, or scan from a desktop browser. Windows Camera also supports QR scanning on devices with a camera.
Why did my online scan reveal a different URL than the printed one says?
The printed text near a QR code is just a label. It's not encoded in the QR. A common quishing tactic is to print 'menu.example.com' next to a QR code that actually points at a different domain. Always trust what the scanner decodes, not what's printed alongside the code. If they don't match, the code may have been replaced (a sticker placed over the legitimate QR is the most common physical attack).
Does this work on iPhone and Android?
Yes, in supported mobile browsers. Camera access requires permission and compatible hardware; you can also upload a saved image. Browser and device behavior can vary.
Can I scan barcodes on products?
The browser decoder may read common UPC or EAN barcodes. QRLynx displays the decoded number for you to copy.
What is the difference between Static and Dynamic QR codes?
A static QR contains its fixed payload in the symbol. A dynamic QR usually contains a short URL that redirects to a destination the owner can update. The scanner displays the encoded text of either type when it can decode the symbol.
What's the difference between BarcodeDetector and a JavaScript decoder?
BarcodeDetector is an experimental browser API that may be available on some devices. QRLynx uses html5-qrcode for camera and image scans and a jsQR fallback for difficult image scans. Available formats and decoding speed depend on your browser, camera, and image quality; the scan runs in your browser.
Can I paste a screenshot to scan a QR code?
Yes. Copy a screenshot or image containing a QR code, then press Ctrl+V (Cmd+V on Mac) on the scanner page while focus is outside a form field. The scanner attempts to decode it and saves successful results in local history. No file dialog is needed.
Can I switch between front and rear cameras?
Yes. If the browser exposes more than one camera after permission is granted, a Switch Camera button appears. Use it to choose another available camera without leaving the scanner page.
Is there a flashlight / torch button for low light?
Yes, on devices that support the MediaTrack torch capability, primarily Android Chrome and Edge on the rear camera. When supported, a Flashlight button appears next to the Switch Camera button while scanning; tap to toggle. iOS Safari does not currently expose the torch API to web pages, so iPhone users won't see the button. The torch is turned off automatically when you stop scanning or leave the page.
Ready to Create Your Own QR Codes?
Start for free and upgrade as you grow. All plans include dynamic QR codes, analytics, and custom branding.
QRLynx pricing plans
Starter
- 3 Dynamic QR Codes Editable QR codes: change the destination URL anytime.
- 1 Folder Group saved QR codes into folders to keep projects organized.
- 5 MB per PDF upload Maximum file size for each PDF you upload.
- AI Insight Summaries Every plan gets plain-language AI scan summaries; Starter+ and higher add anomaly, trend & recommendation detail plus manual refresh.
- 3 Months Analytics How far back your analytics go. Scan totals, charts, top QR codes, and breakdowns available to your plan cover its full history window. Country breakdowns start on Pro; city, device, operating system, and browser breakdowns start on Business. CSV export is available on Business and Enterprise.
Starter+
- 50 Dynamic QR Codes Editable QR codes: change the destination URL anytime.
- Instant QR Redirects Send scans straight to the destination without the brief QRLynx opening or security scanning screens.
- 10 Folders Group saved QR codes into folders to keep projects organized.
- 10 MB per PDF upload Maximum file size for each PDF you upload.
- Full AI Insights Every plan gets plain-language AI scan summaries; Starter+ and higher add anomaly, trend & recommendation detail plus manual refresh.
- 1 Year Analytics How far back your analytics go. Scan totals, charts, top QR codes, and breakdowns available to your plan cover its full history window. Country breakdowns start on Pro; city, device, operating system, and browser breakdowns start on Business. CSV export is available on Business and Enterprise.
- SVG / PDF Downloads Download scalable SVG artwork or an A4 PDF containing a high-resolution QR image.
Pro
- 300 Dynamic QR Codes Editable QR codes: change the destination URL anytime.
- 25 Folders Group saved QR codes into folders to keep projects organized.
- 15 MB per PDF upload Maximum file size for each PDF you upload.
- 2 Years Analytics How far back your analytics go. Scan totals, charts, top QR codes, and breakdowns available to your plan cover its full history window. Country breakdowns start on Pro; city, device, operating system, and browser breakdowns start on Business. CSV export is available on Business and Enterprise.
- Country Analytics See which countries your scans come from.
- Password Protection Require a password before showing QR content.
- Smart Redirect Rules Redirect by device, country, or time.
- Access Consent Screens Show a consent / disclaimer screen before the QR destination loads.
- Expiry Rules Auto-expire a QR code by date or after a set number of scans.
- QR Scheduling Schedule when a QR code is active with start and end time windows.
- Bulk Dynamic QR: 100/batch Bulk-create dynamic codes from a CSV, each editable after printing with its own scan analytics. This goes beyond the free static batch tool. Pro includes 5 batches/month, Business 10; Enterprise batches are unlimited.
- Instant QR Redirects Send scans straight to the destination without the brief QRLynx opening or security scanning screens.
- Full AI Insights Every plan gets plain-language AI scan summaries; Starter+ and higher add anomaly, trend & recommendation detail plus manual refresh.
- SVG / PDF Downloads Download scalable SVG artwork or an A4 PDF containing a high-resolution QR image.
Business
- 1,000 Dynamic QR Codes Editable QR codes: change the destination URL anytime.
- 100 Folders Group saved QR codes into folders to keep projects organized.
- 25 MB per PDF upload Maximum file size for each PDF you upload.
- 3 Years Analytics How far back your analytics go. Scan totals, charts, top QR codes, and breakdowns available to your plan cover its full history window. Country breakdowns start on Pro; city, device, operating system, and browser breakdowns start on Business. CSV export is available on Business and Enterprise.
- City, Device & Browser Analytics Break scan activity down by city, device type, operating system, and browser.
- CSV Analytics Export
- Bulk Dynamic QR: 250/batch Bulk-create dynamic codes from a CSV, each editable after printing with its own scan analytics. This goes beyond the free static batch tool. Pro includes 5 batches/month, Business 10; Enterprise batches are unlimited.
- Team Management (10 Members) Invite members to collaborate on QR codes, analytics, and folders.
- Lead Capture Forms Collect contact details before opening your destination. Use either Lead Forms or Password Protection on a QR code, depending on your campaign’s needs.
- Email Reports
- Public API Access Create and repoint dynamic QR codes and read scan analytics from your own systems with a REST API and scoped keys.
- Instant QR Redirects Send scans straight to the destination without the brief QRLynx opening or security scanning screens.
- Full AI Insights Every plan gets plain-language AI scan summaries; Starter+ and higher add anomaly, trend & recommendation detail plus manual refresh.
- Country Analytics See which countries your scans come from.
- Password Protection Require a password before showing QR content.
- Smart Redirect Rules Redirect by device, country, or time.
- Access Consent Screens Show a consent / disclaimer screen before the QR destination loads.
- Expiry Rules Auto-expire a QR code by date or after a set number of scans.
- QR Scheduling Schedule when a QR code is active with start and end time windows.
- SVG / PDF Downloads Download scalable SVG artwork or an A4 PDF containing a high-resolution QR image.
Enterprise
- 5,000 Dynamic QR Codes Editable QR codes: change the destination URL anytime.
- 500 Folders Group saved QR codes into folders to keep projects organized.
- 50 MB per PDF upload Maximum file size for each PDF you upload.
- Unlimited Analytics How far back your analytics go. Scan totals, charts, top QR codes, and breakdowns available to your plan cover its full history window. Country breakdowns start on Pro; city, device, operating system, and browser breakdowns start on Business. CSV export is available on Business and Enterprise.
- Bulk Dynamic QR: 1,000/batch Bulk-create dynamic codes from a CSV, each editable after printing with its own scan analytics. This goes beyond the free static batch tool. Pro includes 5 batches/month, Business 10; Enterprise batches are unlimited.
- Team Management (100 Members) Invite members to collaborate on QR codes, analytics, and folders.
- White Label Domains Use your own domain for QR redirects (e.g. qr.yourbrand.com).
- Retargeting Pixels Facebook, Google & GTM tracking pixels on QR landing pages.
- Instant QR Redirects Send scans straight to the destination without the brief QRLynx opening or security scanning screens.
- Full AI Insights Every plan gets plain-language AI scan summaries; Starter+ and higher add anomaly, trend & recommendation detail plus manual refresh.
- Country Analytics See which countries your scans come from.
- City, Device & Browser Analytics Break scan activity down by city, device type, operating system, and browser.
- CSV Analytics Export
- Password Protection Require a password before showing QR content.
- Smart Redirect Rules Redirect by device, country, or time.
- Access Consent Screens Show a consent / disclaimer screen before the QR destination loads.
- Expiry Rules Auto-expire a QR code by date or after a set number of scans.
- QR Scheduling Schedule when a QR code is active with start and end time windows.
- Lead Capture Forms Collect contact details before opening your destination. Use either Lead Forms or Password Protection on a QR code, depending on your campaign’s needs.
- Email Reports
- Public API Access Create and repoint dynamic QR codes and read scan analytics from your own systems with a REST API and scoped keys.
- SVG / PDF Downloads Download scalable SVG artwork or an A4 PDF containing a high-resolution QR image.
Core features included in every plan
(free and paid, no exceptions)- Unlimited Static QR Codes
- QR Pause & Activate
- Unlimited Scans
- Dynamic Projects Are Preserved
- 61 QR Code Types
- Apple & Google Wallet Passes
- Custom Logo Upload
- QR Code Frames
- No Watermark
- No Scan Ads
- JPG, PNG, WEBP & HD Downloads
- Bulk Static QR (up to 100/batch)
50% off Business and Enterprise plans for verified nonprofits, schools and open-source projects. Contact us to apply.
Create your next QR campaign with QRLynx
Start free, then choose the capacity, analytics, campaign controls, or team features your work needs.