QR Codes: Do They Have to be Square?

QR codes are seen everywhere these days, from labels and product
packaging to business cards, banners, and postcards. With around 89
million Americans using them for mobile payments, information access,
and promotions, it’s no surprise that
global QR code usage
has increased by 57% in 2024. In fact, their visibility is expected to
rise by 22% in 2025.

Well, the quick answer is — no, they don’t!

The QR codes we often see are small, pixelated boxes and you
might have, at some point, thought if they always had to be
square.

In this article, UPrinting explains what makes custom QR codes a game
changer, their pros and cons, and the different custom QR code shapes
you can use for your next design.

What are QR Codes?

QR codes
, or quick-response codes, are two-dimensional barcodes composed of data
modules in a specific shape, usually a square. These modules can store
encoded data like URLs, payment information, or contact details. Unlike
traditional barcodes that are read per line with a laser scanner, QR
codes can be scanned simultaneously using a smartphone.

Why are QR Codes Square?

QR codes were originally designed as squares when they were
invented in 1994 by
Masahiro Hara, an engineer who worked for Denso Wave. While it may seem like a
coincidence, there are several reasons why QR codes are designed
to be square:

1. Scannability – Having a square layout
helps scanners to easily locate and read the encoded data in
the QR code.
2. Efficient data storage – A square QR code
allows the data modules to be organized and maximize the space
for storing information.
3. Error correction – The square shape helps
ensure that the code works even if a part of it is damaged or
not working.

Can QR Codes Be Custom-Shaped?

Absolutely — QR codes can be custom-shaped to fit your branding and
business needs! With the advances in design and technology, it’s now
possible to create unique QR code shapes that are both visually
appealing and functional. Here are some examples that you can try:

1. Circle

A sleek and modern choice that blends well with logos and
stamps. It creates a smooth and organic look while keeping your
QR code scannable. Perfect for businesses aiming for a
minimalist yet professional design.

2. Heart

A charming way to add warmth and emotion to your QR code. Ideal
for events centered around love, care, or giving back to the
community. Works well for wedding businesses, charities, and
Valentine’s campaigns.

3. Star

A fun and eye-catching shape that highlights achievements and
celebrations. A great fit for contests, awards, or
holiday-themed promotions. It draws attention while maintaining
full functionality.

How Custom-Shaped QR Codes Work

Custom-shaped QR codes are created by placing a standard square QR code
within a larger design. The goal is to ensure their functional elements
blend well with the unique design without losing their scannability.
Here’s how they work:

1. Core functionality – The data grid, or the small
square where the data modules or markers are placed, should always
remain intact to ensure the QR code is still scannable even when
designed as a custom shape. If the data grid is not visible or
scannable, cameras or smartphones won’t be able to read or decode
the data within the patterns of the QR code.
2. Design overlay – These are the shapes, patterns,
or logos surrounding the data grid that make QR codes stand out.
Design overlays should always be bigger, added around or over the
data grid so that they don’t affect the QR code’s functionality.
3. Error correction – Custom-shaped QR codes have
higher error correction levels, which allow designers to modify
parts of the QR code for decorative purposes. This gives designers
more flexibility to get creative while ensuring the code looks great
and works perfectly.
4. Testing – Once designed, custom QR codes are
tested to check if they’re compatible with multiple devices and
apps. This process is crucial, as it helps identify and resolve any
scanning issues that users might encounter over time.

Pros and Cons of Custom-Shaped QR Codes

Custom-shaped QR codes come with benefits, but they also have a few
disadvantages. Here are their pros and cons to help you determine if
they suit your needs:

Pros using Custom-Shaped QR Codes

Pros	Descriptions
They stand out	Because of their unique shape, custom-shaped QR codes immediately capture the attention of your audience. They also give your brand a competitive edge as they veer from the standard square QR code most people see.
They showcase your brand	Custom-shaped QR codes allow you to incorporate your brand’s logo or theme into the QR code. This gives your brand more visibility and reinforces brand recognition to your audience.
They are creative	Custom-shaped QR codes allow more room for creativity, making QR codes visually appealing and adding a personal touch to marketing products.
They blend with designs	Custom-shaped QR codes are versatile. They can be integrated into any design, whether on flyers, posters, banners, postcards, merch, or product packaging.
They encourage engagement	Because custom-shaped QR codes are eye-catching, they also spark curiosity, drive people to scan them, and encourage user interaction.

Cons using Custom-Shaped QR Codes

Cons	Descriptions
They might be hard to scan	When not designed correctly or when the data grid is damaged or obstructed, custom-shaped QR codes can confuse scanners and might not work properly.
They might not be compatible	Some smartphones or scanning apps may have scanning issues with custom-shaped QR codes. This is why it is important to test them across various devices and apps before printing them in bulk. When in doubt, choose the standard square shape, as it applies to older devices.
They take time to create	Depending on how intricate the design is, a custom-shaped QR code might need more time and effort to design compared to a traditional square one. This is to ensure that the design looks great while still being functional.

While QR codes don’t have to be square, the classic shape remains
popular for its reliability and practicality. However, if you’re looking
to stand out and embrace a more creative approach, custom-shaped QR
codes can be a great option. Just remember to strike a balance between
functionality and aesthetics — your QR code should still be easy to scan
to ensure it serves its purpose effectively.

Need ideas on how to use QR codes? Check out this article on
50 Creative Ways to Use QR Codes
to inspire you.

share this post

Facebook

Messenger

Linked In

Twitter

QR Codes: Do They Have to be Square?

Well, the quick answer is — no, they don’t!

What are QR Codes?

Why are QR Codes Square?