QR Codes: Advantages and Disadvantages

This article explores the pros and cons of using QR codes, along with a basic explanation of what they are.

What is a QR Code?

QR stands for “Quick Response.” A QR code is a type of 2D barcode that stores data in two dimensions (X and Y).

It can hold a significant amount of information: up to 7089 numeric characters or 4296 alphanumeric characters. There are different versions of QR codes, such as 21-module and 25-module versions.

In a QR code, each black square (module) represents a “1” bit, and each white square represents a “0” bit, excluding the quiet zone around the code. The information is read and decoded horizontally based on these white and black modules.

Figure 1: QR code scanning process

Figure 1 illustrates how a QR code is scanned. It typically involves using a mobile phone’s camera and a QR code reader application (app). The camera is pointed at the QR code, and the app automatically scans it to retrieve the encoded information.

Advantages of QR Codes

Here are the key benefits of using QR codes:

• Fast Decoding: QR codes can be decoded quickly from any direction.
• No External Light Source Needed: Unlike traditional barcode scanners, QR code readers don’t require any external light source to illuminate the code.
• Multi-Purpose: QR codes can store various types of data, including URLs, phone numbers, contact information, geographical locations with map links, and text.
• Error Correction: Thanks to error correction capabilities, QR codes can be read even if parts of the code are damaged or obscured.
• Accessibility: They can be scanned anytime, anywhere using mobile phones.
• Royalty-Free: No license is required to create or use QR codes.
• Enhanced Advertising: QR codes can connect magazine or newspaper readers directly to advertisers’ websites with a simple scan.
• Easy Creation: QR codes are very easy to generate using free online tools and software.

Disadvantages of QR Codes

Here are some of the drawbacks of using QR codes:

• Smartphone Requirement: Scanning a QR code requires a smartphone with a camera, which can be a barrier for users who don’t own such devices.
• App Installation: Users need to install a QR code reader app on their phones to scan the codes. This might not be possible on all types of mobile phones.