How to Make a QR Code With Custom Colors (That Still Scans)
By ERAGO · Published · 3 min read
A black-and-white QR code works, but it doesn't look like yours. A code in your brand colors fits the design, but some color choices make it hard to scan. Here's how to color a QR code so it looks on-brand and still scans on the first try.
The one rule: dark on light, with strong contrast
A phone camera reads a QR code by telling the modules (the small squares) apart from the background. So:
- Dark modules, light background. Navy on cream, deep green on white, burgundy on pale pink. Inverted codes (light on dark) fail on some scanners, so avoid them for print.
- Keep contrast high. Aim for at least 3:1, and more is better. ERAGO warns you when the modules or the corners drop below 3:1 against the background, before you download.
- Skip gradients and photo backgrounds behind the code. Busy backgrounds confuse the scanner.
How to color your QR code in 4 steps
1. Paste your link
Use a short link if you can. Fewer characters means fewer modules, so each one is bigger and easier to read.
2. Pick the module and background colors
Start with your darkest brand color for the modules and a light neutral for the background. If your main brand color is light (yellow, mint, pastel), use it for the background, not the modules. You can also choose the module shape: square, rounded or dots.
3. Give the corners their own color
The three large squares in the corners are the finder patterns. They tell the camera where the code is. In the ERAGO QR studio you can give them a separate color, and a separate color for their center dot too. You can also set the corner shape: square, rounded or leaf. Try navy modules with deep orange corners. Keep the corners about as dark as the modules, so they still stand out from the background.
4. Check the warning, then download
If the low-contrast warning appears, darken the color it points to or lighten the background until it clears. Then download PNG for screens or SVG for print.
Color combinations that work (and that don't)
| Works well | Risky |
|---|---|
| Navy modules, white background, deep orange corners | Yellow modules on white |
| Forest green on cream | Light gray on white |
| Black on pastel pink | Bright orange corners on white |
| Burgundy on off-white, dark gold corners | Red on green |
A note on orange: bright orange on white sits just under 3:1, so ERAGO will warn you. A deeper, burnt orange keeps the accent and clears the check.
Test before you print
Scan the code with at least two phones, ideally an iPhone and an Android, from the distance people will actually stand. Print one copy on the real paper; glossy or colored stock can lower contrast. If it scans instantly on both, you're set.
If the link needs to change after printing, you don't have to reprint. Point the QR code at an ERAGO short link, and you can change where it goes anytime, free on every plan.
Design your QR code in your colors →
Adding a logo too? Read how to make a QR code with your logo.
FAQ
Can a QR code be any color?
Almost. The modules should be clearly darker than the background, ideally at a contrast ratio of 3:1 or more. Very light modules or inverted colors can fail on some scanners.
Can I make the corners a different color?
Yes. In the ERAGO QR studio you can set a separate color for the corners and for their center dot. ERAGO warns you if either one has too little contrast with the background.
Do colored QR codes cost extra?
No. Colors, shapes, logo upload and PNG or SVG download are free, with no sign-up. A free account adds up to 25 short links and one custom domain. Pro, at $5/month plus tax where applicable, adds unlimited custom domains, analytics and unlimited links.