QR Code Reader
Already have a QR code as an image and just need to know what it says? Upload the image, drag it onto the page, or paste it straight from your clipboard with Ctrl+V — the decoded content appears instantly, and this tool automatically recognizes WiFi networks, contact cards, calendar events, and links so you don't have to decipher raw text yourself. Making your own codes instead? Try the QR Code Generator, or use this reader afterward to double-check that a heavily-styled code from the QR Code Logo Generator still scans reliably before you print it.
Drop a QR code image here or click to browse
Or press Ctrl+V to paste an image copied from anywhere
How to Use the QR Code Reader
- Click the upload area to browse for an image file, or drag an image directly onto it.
- Already have the image copied to your clipboard? Just press Ctrl+V anywhere on this page.
- The QR code is decoded instantly and highlighted in green on the preview.
- Recognized formats (WiFi, contact cards, events) are broken down into readable fields automatically. Everything else is shown as plain text.
- Click Scan another image to start over.
What This Tool Can Recognize
Websites & links
Shown with a one-click Open Link button, plus a copy button.
WiFi networks
Network name, password, and encryption type are broken out with a dedicated Copy Password button.
Contact cards (vCard)
Name, organization, phone numbers, and email are listed individually, with a Download .vcf button to save it straight to your contacts app.
Calendar events
Event title, location, and start/end time are shown clearly, with a Download .ics button to add it to your calendar.
Email, text, and phone links
Shown with a matching Send Email, Send Text, or Call button.
Everything else
Any other content is shown as plain text with a copy button. For your safety, a clickable action button only ever appears for the recognized, safe link types above.
Your Image Stays Private
This reader decodes the QR code entirely inside your browser using your device's own processing power. The image is never uploaded, transmitted, or stored anywhere — closing this tab clears everything.
Troubleshooting a Failed Scan
- Crop tighter. A screenshot with a lot of empty space around the code can confuse the decoder — crop the image so the QR code fills most of the frame.
- Improve lighting and focus. Blurry or glare-heavy photos are the most common cause of a failed scan.
- Straighten the angle. A code photographed at a steep angle is harder to decode than one shot head-on.
- Check for damage. A torn, faded, or heavily obscured code — especially one with a large logo from the QR Code Logo Generator — may need a higher error correction level to remain scannable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my image uploaded anywhere?
No. The image is decoded locally using your browser's own canvas and JavaScript engine — it never leaves your device.
Can I scan live with my webcam?
Not currently — this tool works from a still image. Take a photo of the code with your phone or computer's camera app, or take a screenshot, then upload or paste it here.
What image formats are supported?
Any format your browser can display as an image — PNG, JPG, GIF, and WebP all work.
Why does it say no QR code was detected?
Usually the code is too small, blurry, cropped awkwardly, or the image contains more than one code. See the troubleshooting tips above.
If I scan a WiFi QR code, can I see the password?
Yes — the network name, password, and encryption type are all shown in plain text. Only do this with codes you created yourself or have permission to access.
Does this also read barcodes like UPC or Data Matrix codes?
This tool is built specifically for QR codes. For PDF417, Data Matrix, Aztec Code, and common 1D formats like UPC and EAN, use the 2D Barcode Reader instead.
