Business Card QR Codes: vCard vs Link (and Size Rules)
A QR on a business card should save people a typing step — not fail under restaurant lighting. Choose the right payload (link vs contact file) and respect tiny-print physics.
Key takeaways
- Links to a personal site or LinkedIn are simpler and easier to update than dense vCards.
- vCard QR codes can store contact fields but get dense — print larger or shorten data.
- Aim for ~2–2.5 cm (0.8–1 in) minimum code width on cards.
- High contrast + quiet zone beat clever corner crops.
- Export high-res PNG or SVG from a free generator; do not screenshot.
vCard vs link
| URL / link | vCard (contact) | |
|---|---|---|
| User result | Opens a page | Offer to save a contact |
| Update later | Change the page content | Must reprint if contact data is encoded statically |
| Density | Usually simpler | Higher with many fields |
| Best for | Portfolios, booking, LinkedIn | Traditional contact exchange |
Hybrid: Encode a short personal URL that includes buttons for save-contact, calendar, and portfolio. You keep a simple QR and full control of the page.
Size and layout
- Minimum ~2 cm only for short URLs and perfect contrast; 2.5 cm is safer
- Keep away from rounded corners and card edges
- Do not hide the code under a logo mark
- Optional: tiny human-readable URL under the code
Create a card-ready code
- Decide payload: final HTTPS link recommended for most marketers.
- Generate in the free tool at 1200px+ or SVG.
- Place at true size in your card design (front or back — back often cleaner).
- Order a small print proof before a 500-card run.
Make a card-sized high-res QR free
Create free QR codeUse SVG/PNG, dark on light, keep the quiet zone.
FAQ
Front or back?
Back is less crowded. Front can work if the card is intentionally minimal.
Should every teammate share one company QR?
Only if the destination is generic. Individual booking or LinkedIn links deserve personal codes.
Create your business card QR
Create free QR codeNo login. Generated in your browser. Download as SVG, PNG, or JPG.