QR Codes: Do They Have to Be Square?

QR codes can be seen everywhere these days, from labels and product packaging to business cards, banners, and postcards. With around 89 million smartphone users in the U.S. alone using them for mobile payments, website links, and promotions, it's no surprise that global QR code usage has increased by 57%. We often see QR codes as these small, pixelated boxes, but do they always have to be square? The quick answer is — no, they don’t! In this article, UPrinting explains why custom QR codes are a game-changer, their pros and cons, and the different custom QR code shapes you can use for your next design.

What Are QR Codes?

QR codes, or quick-response codes, are two-dimensional barcodes composed of data modules in a specific shape, usually a square. These modules can store encoded data like URLs, payment information, or contact details. Unlike traditional barcodes that are read per line with a laser scanner, QR codes can be scanned simultaneously using a smartphone.

Why Are QR Codes Usually Square?

QR codes were originally designed as squares when they were invented in 1994 by Masahiro Hara, an engineer who worked for Denso Wave. While it may seem like a coincidence, there are several reasons why QR codes are designed to be square:

• Scannability – Having a square layout helps scanners to easily locate and read the encoded data in the QR code.
• Efficient data storage – A square QR code allows the data modules to be organized and maximize the space for storing information.
• Error correction – The square shape helps ensure that the code works even if a part of it is damaged or not working.

Can QR Codes Be Custom-Shaped?

• Circle – Suitable for logos, badges, seals, or minimalist designs. Heart – Recommended for Valentine’s Day promotions, charity events, or romantic themes.
• Star – Can be used for awards, celebrations, festive events.
• Logos and icons – Great for representing a brand or theme, like a teacup for a cafe, flowers for a flower shop, a lightbulb for a hardware store, an animal for wildlife conservation organization, or a leaf for an environmental group.

How Custom-Shaped QR Codes Work

Custom-shaped QR codes are created by placing a standard square QR code within a larger design. The goal is to ensure their functional elements blend well with the unique design without losing their scannability. Here's how they work:

• Core functionality – The data grid, or the small square where the data modules or markers are placed, should always remain intact to ensure the QR code is still scannable even when designed as a custom shape. If the data grid is not visible or scannable, cameras or smartphones won't be able to read or decode the data within the patterns of the QR code.
• Design overlay – These are the shapes, patterns, or logos surrounding the data grid that make QR codes stand out. Design overlays should always be bigger, added around or over the data grid so that they don't affect the QR code's functionality.
• Error correction – Custom-shaped QR codes have higher error correction levels, which allow designers to modify parts of the QR code for decorative purposes. This gives designers more flexibility to get creative while ensuring the code looks great and works perfectly.
• Testing – Once designed, custom QR codes are tested to check if they're compatible with multiple devices and apps. This process is crucial, as it helps identify and resolve any scanning issues that users might encounter over time.

Pros and Cons of Custom-Shaped QR Codes

Custom-shaped QR codes come with benefits, but they also have a few disadvantages. Here are their pros and cons to help you determine if they suit your needs:

Pros

• They stand out. Because of their unique shape, custom-shaped QR codes are sure to immediately capture the attention of your audience. They also give your brand a competitive edge as they veer from the standard square QR code most people see.
• They showcase your brand. Custom-shaped QR codes allow you to incorporate your brand’s logo or theme into the QR code. This gives your brand more visibility and reinforces brand recognition to your audience.
• They are creative. Custom-shaped QR codes allow more room for creativity, making QR codes visually appealing and adding a personal touch to marketing products.
• They easily blend with designs. Custom-shaped QR codes are very versatile. They can be integrated into any design, whether on flyers, posters, banners, postcards, merch, or product packaging.
• They encourage engagement. Because custom-shaped QR codes are eye-catching, they also spark curiosity, drive people to scan them, and encourage user interaction.

• They might be hard to scan. If not designed correctly and the data grid is damaged or obstructed, custom-shaped QR codes can confuse scanners and might not work properly.
• They might not be compatible with some devices. Some smartphones or scanning apps may have scanning issues with custom-shaped QR codes. This is why it is important to test them across various devices and apps before printing them in bulk. Otherwise, choose the standard square shape, as it applies to older devices.
• They take time to create. Depending on how intricate the design is, a custom-shaped QR code might need more time and effort to design compared to a traditional square one. This is to ensure that the design looks great while still being functional.

Conclusion

While QR codes don’t have to be square, the classic shape remains popular for its reliability and practicality. However, if you’re looking to stand out and embrace a more creative approach, custom-shaped QR codes can be a great option. Just remember to strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics — your QR code should still be easy to scan to ensure it serves its purpose effectively.

Need ideas on how to use QR codes? Check out this article on 50 Creative Ways to Use QR Codes to inspire you.