How to scan a QR code online
- Tap "Scan with camera"Allow camera access when your browser asks. On a phone, the back camera is used.
- Point the camera at the codeHold steady so the code fills the square. The scan happens automatically.
- Or upload an imageA screenshot, a photo or a QR code someone sent you. You can also paste it.
- Use the resultCopy the text, open the link, join the WiFi, save the contact or add the event to your calendar.
Scan a QR code from a screenshot or image
Phone cameras can read a QR code on a poster, but not one that's already on your screen: in an email, a PDF ticket or a screenshot someone sent you. Upload the image here, or paste it, and the scanner reads it. It tries several sizes and contrast levels, so photos taken at an angle or in poor light often work too.
What the scanner understands
| Content | What you can do |
|---|---|
| Web link | Copy or open it, with a quick safety hint |
| WiFi network | See the network name and password, copy the password |
| Contact (vCard) | Save it to your contacts as a .vcf file |
| Calendar event | Add it to your calendar as an .ics file |
| Email, SMS, phone | Start the message or call |
| Payment (UPI, crypto) | See the recipient before you pay |
| Plain text | Copy it |
Scanning on a laptop or desktop
On a computer, the scanner uses your webcam. Hold the printed code or your phone screen up to the camera at a distance of about 15–30 cm. If the camera won't focus that close, move the code further away or upload a photo instead.
Scan history, kept on your device
The last 50 codes you scan are saved in your browser so you can find a link again later. History is stored with localStorage on this device only and is never sent to us. Untick "Keep history on this device" to turn it off and delete it, or press "Clear history".
Troubleshooting
- Camera does not start: the page needs HTTPS and your permission. Check the camera icon in the address bar, and close other apps that may be using the camera.
- Code isn't detected: move closer so the code fills the square, avoid glare, and make sure the whole code including its white border is visible.
- Still no luck? Upload a photo to the scannability checker to see what's wrong with the code.
- Worried about a link? Use the QR safety scanner, which never opens links automatically.
Barcode reading
On browsers that include a built-in barcode detector (Chrome and Edge on Android, ChromeOS and some desktop versions), the scanner also reads product barcodes such as EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 128 and ITF, from the camera or from an image. For product numbers you get a "Look up this product" button. On other browsers the scanner reads QR codes only.
Flashlight for dark places
When your phone's camera supports it, a Flashlight button appears while the camera is running. It helps in restaurants, car parks and anywhere with dim light.
Scanning tips for difficult codes
- Too small or far away: move closer until the code fills about half the square, then hold still for a second.
- Glare: tilt the phone slightly so the reflection moves off the code.
- Curved surfaces (bottles, cups): turn the object so the code faces the camera straight on.
- Damaged or dirty codes: QR codes have error correction, so partial damage is often fine. Try from a slightly different angle.
- Codes on screens: lower the screen brightness a little; very bright screens can wash out the pattern.
Is it safe to scan unknown codes?
Reading a code is harmless; opening its link is where scams happen. This scanner always shows you the content first and flags suspicious links. For a full analysis of a link, with the reasons, use the QR code safety scanner.
Scan from a PDF or document
Take a screenshot of the page with the code (on Windows: Win + Shift + S; on a Mac: Cmd + Shift + 4), then paste it here with Ctrl/Cmd + V. No file upload needed.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to install an app?
No. The scanner runs in your web browser on iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac and Linux.
Is it safe to allow camera access?
Yes. The video is processed on your device to find QR codes. Nothing is recorded or uploaded, and the camera stops as soon as a code is found or you leave the page.
Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot?
Yes. Upload the screenshot or paste it with Ctrl+V (⌘+V on Mac).
Why doesn't the camera work?
Camera access requires HTTPS and permission. Check your browser settings, and make sure no other app is using the camera.
Does it read barcodes too?
This scanner reads QR codes. To create product barcodes, use our barcode generator.
Where is my scan history stored?
Only in your browser's local storage on this device. Clear it any time with the "Clear history" button.
Related free tools
Related guides
- How to Create a WiFi QR Code (Step by Step)
- Do QR Codes Expire? The Truth About Static vs Dynamic QR Codes
- How to Spot a Fake or Dangerous QR Code
- Why Did My QR Code Stop Working?
- Static vs Dynamic QR Codes: Which Should You Use?
- How to Replace an Expired QR Code
- What Is a QR Code?
- How to Scan a QR Code
- QR Code vs Barcode: What's the Difference?
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Last updated October 27, 2026 by the QR Code Haven team. Found a problem? Tell us.
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