How to choose the right QR code type when using a QR code generator

To successfully convert documents, images, PDFs, and links into QR codes, you need a powerful and reliable QR code generator. A professional tool like GET-QR supports multiple content formats, allowing you to create QR codes for any file or URL without restrictions.

However, many users face a common question: Which QR code type should I choose? The answer is simple — it depends on the kind of content you want to share. Let’s explore the main types and their features.

QR code types by content

Depending on the data you want to encode, several types of QR codes are available.  The most common one is a QR code for a link, which leads to any online page — whether it’s a company website, a social media profile, a document stored in the cloud, or a Google business review page.

Equally popular are QR codes for files, including PDFs, images, and restaurant menus.  Beyond these, you can also generate QR codes for Wi-Fi credentials, a WhatsApp contact number, or even map coordinates to pinpoint a specific location.

Users of GET-QR especially value the option to generate QR codes for links, PDFs, maps, text, and other content types. In addition, our platform offers step-by-step instructions and expert tips on how to add files and URLs to interactive QR codes.

Features of different QR codes

In general, there are two main types of QR codes — link QR codes and file QR codes, each with several subtypes.

A URL QR code can redirect users to any web address — from an online store homepage to a LinkedIn profile, Pinterest board, or Instagram video. When scanned, such codes typically open in the user’s default browser, but if the relevant app (e.g., LinkedIn, Pinterest, or Instagram) is installed, it launches automatically.

A file QR code, on the other hand, provides direct access to digital content — such as a PDF document or a PNG image — which can then be downloaded to the user’s device. These codes always open in a browser by default for seamless access.

There are also specialized QR codes, such as map QR codes, which embed location data. They display a precise address on Google Maps, Apple Maps, or other mapping services, helping users instantly navigate to a destination. To create one, simply add a map link, enter latitude and longitude, or input a location query in the generator’s designated field.

How to choose the right QR code type

On the homepage of the GET-QR generator, you’ll find a list of available options — including ‘Link’, ‘PDF Menu’, ‘Google Docs’, and more. Just select the format that matches your content and move on to the next step: adding your data.

The process varies slightly depending on what you want to encode: for a link, simply paste it into the input field; for an image, upload it using the upload button or drag it directly into the browser window; for text, you can copy and paste it or type it manually.

Keep in mind that the button layout on the QR generator page depends on your file or link format. Each content type has its own section, and if you don’t see a suitable one, click the 'File' button. It will upload your content to a personal folder on our server, and the generated QR code will point directly to it.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to create a QR code for any link or file. Just choose the right type and generate your custom QR code for free!