Pocket Guide: 10+ Free Ways to Create QR Codes for Every Need

Do you need to share a link, document, product, or personal information via QR code but don’t know where to start? Are you overwhelmed by too many tools that require registration or downloading an app?

In this article, iCheckQR will walk you through 10 fast, free, and easy-to-use QR code generation methods—perfect for every need with just a few clicks.

Popular Ways to Create QR Codes

Today, there are various methods to create QR codes depending on your usage—from quick web-based tools to bulk generation using Excel or professional software.

Below are 10 common and easy-to-apply methods suitable for both individuals and businesses.

1. Generate QR Codes Using Online Websites

If you want to create QR codes quickly without installing software or registering an account, online tools are the ideal solution. They allow you to generate free QR codes, support many data types such as URLs, text, Wi-Fi, email, vCard, and more.

Recommended tools:

• qr-code-generator.com

• me-qr.com
  

• iCheckQR.com (Vietnamese interface, easy to use)

• goqr.me
  

• qr.io
  

• qrcode-monkey.com 

Advantages:

• Support multiple content types: URL, text, Wi-Fi, email, vCard, etc.

• Online use, no software installation required

• No account registration or login needed (unless using premium features)

• Free and beginner-friendly interface

2. Generate QR Codes Using Microsoft Excel

When to use: This method is ideal for bulk QR code generation from existing lists in Excel—like product catalogs, website URLs, customer codes, Wi-Fi credentials, or vCard data. Perfect for businesses, sellers, or office workers seeking automation.

Step-by-step guide:

Method 1: Install the “QR4Office” Add-in from Microsoft Store

• Open Excel → go to the Insert tab → click Get Add-ins

• Search for "QR4Office" and click Add

• Once installed, the QR4Office tool will appear in the Insert or My Add-ins tab

• Select the cell with the data → open QR4Office → the QR code will be generated based on that cell

• You can customize size, color, and insert the code directly into the sheet.

Method 2: Use formula with external services (e.g. Google Chart API)

• Create a column with the data to be encoded (e.g. URLs, text)

• In the adjacent cell, enter the formula: =IMAGE("https://chart.googleapis.com/chart?chs=150x150&cht=qr&chl=" & ENCODEURL(A2))
  (Replace A2 with your actual data cell)

• Excel will auto-display the QR code image based on each row’s content

• Drag the formula down to auto-generate QR codes for the entire list

Note:

• This method requires an internet connection to render the QR codes

• Ensure proper data formatting for accurate QR output

• Combine with batch printing or PDF export for labeling or sharing

3. Generate QR Codes Using Google Sheets

Why use it:

• A free Excel alternative if you don’t have Microsoft Office

• Supports collaboration and easy online sharing

How to do it:

• Enter data (e.g. links, text, product codes) in Google Sheets

• In the adjacent cell, use this formula: =IMAGE("https://chart.googleapis.com/chart?chs=500x500&cht=qr&chl=" & ENCODEURL(A1))
  (Replace A1 with your data cell)

• The QR code will automatically appear as an image based on each row.

4. Generate QR Codes Using Mobile Apps (Android/iOS)

When to use: Ideal for flexible on-the-go creation and scanning of QR codes using your smartphone—perfect for individuals, salespeople, or small businesses.

Recommended free apps:

• QR TIGER QR Code Generator – Customize colors, add logos, and track scans

• QR Code Scanner: Pro – Combines generation and scanning with a user-friendly interface

• QR-Code Generator & QR Maker – Quickly generate QR codes from links, text, contacts, Wi-Fi, etc.

Generate QR Codes Using 3 Basic Apps

Key benefits:

• Create and scan QR codes directly on your phone—no PC or complex tools needed

• Highly convenient for mobile use—ideal for events, fairs, and business on the go

Note: Most apps are free with basic features. Advanced options like scan analytics or dynamic QR codes may require a Pro upgrade.

5. Generate QR Codes Using Zalo (Quick Share for Personal/Business Profiles)

When to use: Perfect if you want others to quickly connect to your personal or business Zalo account using Zalo-generated QR codes.

How to do it:

For personal accounts:

• Open the Zalo app

• Go to “Personal” (bottom right)

• Tap on “QR Wallet”

• View, save, or share your personal QR code for quick friend requests

Step-by-step Illustrations

For business accounts (Zalo OA):

• Go to oa.zalo.me or Zalo OA Manager app

• Navigate to the “QR Code” section

• Download the QR code that links directly to your business page

Real-world use:

• Share personal account with friends, partners, or customers by scanning—no manual searching needed

• Promote your business Zalo OA on:

• Store banners, events, fairs

• Business cards, catalogs, product packaging

• Social media posts or websites

• Increase followers and engagement, making it easier for customers to message you directly.

Pro Tip: Add captions like “Scan to Connect” or “Scan to Chat with Us” on printed QR codes to boost interaction.

6. Generate QR Codes Using Canva (Design + QR Code)

When to use: Ideal for designing print materials with embedded QR codes, such as name cards, posters, flyers, invitations, product packaging, etc.

Steps:

• Visit Canva.com or open the Canva app

• Create a new design (e.g., business card, flyer)

• In the left toolbar, click “Apps” → choose “QR Code”

• Enter the URL → customize colors, margin, etc. → click “Generate Code”

• The QR code will appear in your design. You can move or resize it freely.

• Once done, click Download to export as PNG, JPG, or PDF.

Step-by-step Illustrations

7. Generate QR Codes Using Google Chrome

Best for: Users wanting to quickly share any website URL without extra tools.

Steps:

• Open Chrome on your computer

• Navigate to the desired webpage

• Click the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner

• Choose “Share, Save & Send” > “Create QR Code”

Step-by-step Illustrations

Once the QR code is generated, you can:

• Copy the link to paste elsewhere

• Download it to your device

• Scan it with another device's camera to access the site instantly

Learn more: How to create QR codes in Chrome

8. Generate QR Codes Using Design Software (Paint, Photoshop, AI)

Use case: Ideal for artistic or branded QR codes in marketing campaigns, product packaging, or premium designs.

Steps:

• Generate a basic QR code using online tools like iCheckQR or QR Code Monkey

• Download as PNG or SVG

• Open in design software: Paint, Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, etc.

• Customize by:

• Adding brand colors

• Embedding logos or background visuals

• Applying graphic effects or icons

• Export the final design for print or digital use.

Illustrations

Note: Be careful not to distort the QR code’s readability—preserve scanning accuracy.

9. Generate QR Codes Using HTML Embeds or API

Best for: Developers or tech teams integrating QR code generation into websites, orders, invoices, etc.

Practical uses:

• Auto-generate QR codes per order in admin dashboards

• Embed payment or invoice QR codes

• Assign unique QR codes to users or documents in your system

Recommended free APIs:

• Google Chart API: https://chart.googleapis.com/chart?chs=150x150&cht=qr&chl=your-data
  (Note: Deprecated but still functional)

• goqr.me API: https://api.qrserver.com/v1/create-qr-code/?size=150x150&data=your-data

You can embed these into HTML or backend systems for dynamic QR creation.

10. Generate QR Codes Using PowerPoint (Little-Known Feature)

When to use: Great for adding scannable codes to presentation slides—e.g. links to forms, reference docs, websites, or videos.

Steps:

• Open your PowerPoint file → go to Insert tab

• Click Get Add-ins to access the store

• Search for “QR4Office” → click Add

• Select QR4Office → enter the content to encode (e.g., URL, text).

• The QR code will appear in your slide. Resize or reposition as needed

Note: QR codes can be scanned directly from the screen—great for audiences or classrooms.

Quick Comparison Table of 10 QR Code Methods

Whether you're an individual needing quick info sharing, a business creating bulk QR codes, or a developer building integrated solutions—there's a suitable method among these 10+ ways iCheckQR has compiled.

From beginner-friendly online tools and handy mobile apps to advanced design software and programmable APIs—each option has its pros and cons.

Choose the method that best fits your needs, device, and skill level to generate QR codes quickly, for free, and effectively.