Business cards
A business card QR code should reduce typing. The best choice depends on whether you want scanners to save contact details, open a profile, or visit a portfolio.
Keep the payload compact and the printed code large enough for close-range scanning.
Key decisions
Use vCard for contact saving
Encode name, phone, email, company, title, and website directly in the QR payload.
Use URL for profiles
LinkedIn, portfolio, calendar booking, and bio pages are often better as URL QR codes.
Protect the quiet zone
Business cards are small, so keep design elements away from the QR margin.
Business card QR choices
| QR type | Best use | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| vCard | Save contact details directly | Long contact data creates dense codes |
| LinkedIn or portfolio URL | Professional discovery and proof | Destination depends on external platform |
| Booking link | Sales and consulting follow-up | Calendar URL must stay stable |
Business card QR checklist
- Print a proof at final size and scan it from normal card distance.
- Use SVG, PDF, or EPS in the card artwork.
- Avoid placing the QR code too close to trimmed edges.
- Regenerate the code when contact details change.
Frequently asked questions
How big should a QR code be on a business card?
Start around 2 cm or 0.8 inches wide, then test the exact printed card with multiple phones.
Should I use vCard or a LinkedIn URL?
Use vCard when saving contact details is the goal. Use a URL when you want scanners to view a profile, portfolio, or booking page.