QR code types explained
When you create a QR code, you first choose its type. The type decides what happens when someone scans the code.
Almost every QR code you make in QRForge is dynamic: the printed code holds a short QRForge link, and QRForge decides what to show when it is scanned. This means you can change the content later and count scans. The one exception is a Wi-Fi code set to join the network directly (see below).
The types
Website URL Opens a web page, such as your website, an online menu or a booking page. This is the most common type. Only this type supports conditional redirection and tracking parameters.
Landing Page Opens a mobile page that QRForge hosts for you. You build it yourself from blocks, such as text, images, buttons, opening hours or a menu. No website is needed. Landing pages are also the stops of a trail. See Create a landing page.
Simple Text Shows a short text message on the phone screen, for example a welcome note or instructions.
Text Message (SMS) Opens the phone's messaging app with a phone number and message filled in. The person only has to press send.
Phone Number Starts a phone call to the number you enter.
Email Opens the phone's email app with the address, subject and message filled in.
Calendar Event Downloads a calendar file with the event title, location, description, start and end. The person can add it to their calendar.
Business Card (vCard) Downloads a contact card with a name, company, phone number, email address, website and address. The person can save it to their contacts.
Wi-Fi Shares your Wi-Fi network. Under When scanned, you choose one of two ways:
- Connect to the network — phones join the Wi-Fi automatically. The network details are stored in the code itself, so this code cannot be edited or tracked after printing.
- Open a page with the details — the phone opens a page that shows the network name and the password to copy. This code stays editable and counts scans.
Which type should I choose?
| You want people to… | Choose |
|---|---|
| visit your website | Website URL |
| see information, and you have no website | Landing Page |
| follow a route with several stops | Landing Page codes, joined in a trail |
| call you | Phone Number |
| send you a text message | Text Message |
| email you | |
| save your contact details | Business Card |
| save an event | Calendar Event |
| join your Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
| read a short note | Simple Text |
Can I change the type later?
No. You can change the content of a QR code at any time, but not its type. To use a different type, create a new QR code. See Change where a QR code points.