A 1D barcode encodes data in parallel lines and typically holds a short numeric ID. A QR code uses a 2D grid and can hold far more data — full URLs, WiFi credentials, contact cards — plus error correction so it still scans if partially damaged.
Free Design Tool
QR Code & Barcode Generator
Generate QR codes for URLs, WiFi, contact cards, email, SMS, and phone numbers — plus standard 1D barcodes (CODE128, EAN-13, UPC-A, and more) — all customizable, downloadable as PNG or SVG, entirely in your browser.
- ✔ 6 QR data types
- ✔ 9 barcode formats
- ✔ Custom colors
- ✔ PNG & SVG download
- ✔ Nothing uploaded
- ✔ Free Forever
One Tool for Every Code You Need
QR codes and barcodes both encode data into a scannable visual format, but they serve different jobs — QR codes pack far more data (URLs, WiFi credentials, full contact cards) into a compact 2D grid readable by any phone camera, while traditional 1D barcodes remain the standard for inventory, retail, and shipping systems that expect a specific format like EAN-13 or CODE128.
This tool generates both, entirely in your browser using well-established open-source libraries — nothing you enter is ever uploaded anywhere.
How It Works
1. Choose a Type
QR code or barcode, then the specific data type or format.
2. Fill In Details
Each type has its own relevant fields — URL, WiFi credentials, contact info, etc.
3. Customize
Adjust colors, size, and error correction level for QR codes.
4. Download
Save as PNG for general use, or SVG for print-quality scaling.
Appearance
Foreground
Background
CODE128 accepts any text or numbers — the most flexible general-purpose format.
Appearance
Bar Color
Background
Format Reference
Which Barcode Format Do You Need?
| Format | Data | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| CODE128 | Any ASCII text/numbers | General purpose — shipping labels, internal inventory, ID badges. |
| EAN-13 | Exactly 12-13 digits | Retail product barcodes used across Europe and internationally. |
| EAN-8 | Exactly 7-8 digits | Retail barcodes for small packaging where EAN-13 doesn't fit. |
| UPC-A | Exactly 11-12 digits | Standard retail barcode used across the United States and Canada. |
| CODE39 | A-Z, 0-9, - . $ / + % space | Automotive, defense, and some healthcare inventory systems. |
| ITF-14 | Exactly 13-14 digits | Shipping cartons and pallets — encodes a GTIN for logistics. |
| MSI | Numeric only | Inventory control and warehouse shelf marking. |
| Pharmacode | Numeric (3-131070) | Pharmaceutical packaging line control — verifies correct packaging, not product ID. |
| Codabar | Numeric + A-D start/stop | Libraries, blood banks, and older logistics systems. |
What does QR error correction level mean?
QR codes can recover data even if part of the code is damaged, obscured, or has a logo placed over it. Level L recovers ~7% of the code, M ~15%, Q ~25%, and H ~30%. Higher levels mean a denser, larger code — use H when the code might get scuffed, dirty, or slightly obscured; use L when you need the smallest possible code for a very short URL.
PNG vs SVG — which should I download?
PNG is a fixed-resolution raster image — fine for web use, social media, or screens. SVG is a vector format that scales to any size without blurring or pixelation — use SVG when printing at large sizes (posters, signage) or when the code needs to be resized by someone else later.
FAQsQR Code & Barcode Generator
What is the difference between a QR code and a barcode?
Will a WiFi QR code actually connect a phone to my network?
Yes, on most modern Android and iOS devices, scanning a correctly formatted WiFi QR code prompts the user to join the network directly, without typing the password.
Which barcode format should I use for a retail product?
EAN-13 is standard internationally, UPC-A is standard in the US and Canada. Both require a registered GS1 manufacturer prefix for real retail use — this tool generates the visual barcode only.
Is my data uploaded anywhere?
No. Both QR codes and barcodes are generated entirely in your browser. Nothing you enter is sent to any server.