💬 WhatsApp + QR
WhatsApp QR code: let people message you with a scan
A WhatsApp QR code lets people scan a sign, counter display, or package and start messaging you. This guide explains how to create one, where to place it, and how to measure its performance.
4 min readUpdated
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The QR code built into WhatsApp lets people add you as a contact. That is not the same as what a business usually needs: you want someone to open the chat and message you without saving your number or taking extra steps. For that, you need a QR code that points to your WhatsApp link.
How it differs from WhatsApp's built-in QR code
| In-app QR code | QR code for your link | |
|---|---|---|
| What happens when scanned | Adds the contact | Opens the chat directly |
| Pre-filled message | No | Yes |
| Can be tracked | No | Yes, every scan |
| Change the number without reprinting | No | Yes, if it is dynamic |
| Works with the phone's camera | Only from inside WhatsApp | Yes, from any camera app |
For printed materials, that last row matters most. WhatsApp's in-app QR code must be scanned from inside WhatsApp, while a QR code for your link works directly with the phone's camera.
How to create it, step by step
- 1
Build your WhatsApp link with a message
Use your number in international format without the +, plus a short message that starts the conversation. You can create it below.
- 2
Generate a QR code for that link
The QR code should point to the short link, not the long wa.me URL. It is easier to scan, and you can change the destination later.
- 3
Download it as a large PNG
A 1920 px square works for labels, flyers, and posters. Never enlarge it from a screenshot.
- 4
Test it before printing
Scan it with an iPhone and an Android phone from the actual viewing distance. This step prevents you from printing a thousand flyers with a QR code that does not open.
After generating the link
Once you have the short link, paste it into the QR code generator as the destination. If you create an account, you will also be able to see how many scans it received and where they came from.
Where to place it and how large it should be
| Location | Distance | QR code width |
|---|---|---|
| Product label or packaging | 20 cm | 2 cm |
| Card or flyer | 25 cm | 2.5 cm |
| Counter sign | 1 m | 10 cm |
| Store window, viewed from the sidewalk | 2 m | 20 cm |
| Large sign or vehicle | 5 m | 50 cm |
The rule is simple: the QR code's width should be about one-tenth of the scanning distance. Always leave a white border of at least four modules around it, or many scanners will fail to recognize it.
What message to pre-fill
Write the message in the customer's voice, not your own, and mention where the person found you. That detail helps with attribution: you can tell which sign prompted the message without another tool.
- Store window: "Hi, I saw the sign in your window and would like to ask about..."
- Restaurant table: "Hi, I'm at a table and would like to order..."
- Packaging: "Hi, I bought one of your products and have a question."
- Trade show or event: "Hi, we met at the event. I'd like more information."
How to measure whether the sign works
WhatsApp does not tell you where each conversation came from. A QR code that points to your own short link can show how many scans occurred, when they happened, and which country they came from. Use a different link for the window, counter, and packaging to compare which placements generate inquiries.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the QR code already available in WhatsApp?
It works for adding you as a contact, but it can only be scanned from inside WhatsApp and cannot be tracked. For signs and packaging, use a QR code for your link, which any camera app can scan.
Can I change the number without reprinting?
Yes, if the QR code points to an editable short link in your account. Change the link's destination and all previously printed materials will open the new number.
Does it work with WhatsApp Business?
Yes, in exactly the same way. The link and QR code are the same; only the tools available within the app are different.
How many times can it be scanned?
There is no limit. A QR code does not wear out or expire. The link it points to can expire, which is why keeping it in your account is useful.
Can I put a logo in the center?
Yes, as long as the QR code uses high error correction. Branded taap.at QR codes are generated this way, so the centered logo does not affect scanning.
Make it yours and track every click
Create a free account so your links do not expire and you can measure country, device, and source.