QR Code Reader & Scanner
Scan a QR code with your camera or upload an image to decode it. Supports URLs, Wi-Fi, vCards, SMS, email, phone, and plain text. 100% browser-based.
📷 What This Tool Does
A free online QR code reader that works with your camera OR an uploaded image. Decodes any standard QR code: plain text, URLs, Wi-Fi network configs, vCard contacts, SMS messages, email, phone numbers, and geo coordinates. Everything runs in your browser — your image or camera stream never leaves your device.
⚠️ Stay Safe
QR codes can hide malicious URLs. Always check the destination URL of any scanned QR code before clicking it. This tool deliberately shows the decoded text first so you can verify the destination before visiting. Never scan QR codes from untrusted sources (street posters, unsolicited emails, parking lots) — "quishing" attacks are increasingly common.
🔒 Privacy
- ✓ Decoding runs entirely in your browser via the jsQR library
- ✓ Your image is never uploaded anywhere
- ✓ Camera video is processed locally and never leaves your device
- ✓ Works offline after page first loads
❓ FAQ
How do I scan a QR code with my camera?
Click the "Camera" tab and grant camera permission when your browser asks. Point your camera at any QR code — it will decode automatically within a second or two. Works on desktop with a webcam and on mobile with the rear camera. No app install needed.
Can I read a QR code from an image I already have?
Yes. Click the "Upload" tab and drag-drop an image (PNG, JPG, WebP) or click to pick a file. The QR code is decoded instantly. Works with screenshots, scanned documents, photos of QR codes from printed materials, or any image containing a QR.
Is my data private?
Yes. All scanning and decoding happens entirely in your browser using the jsQR library. No images are uploaded to any server. No camera video stream leaves your device. Works offline after the page first loads.
What types of QR codes can this decode?
All standard QR code formats: plain text, URLs, Wi-Fi connection details, vCards (contact info), SMS, email, phone numbers, geolocation, calendar events, and more. The tool automatically detects the format and shows structured data where applicable.
Does it work with low-quality photos?
Mostly yes. The jsQR library handles rotation, perspective distortion, and moderate blur. It struggles with very dark images, heavy JPEG compression artifacts, or QR codes that are partially obscured. For best results, use a sharp, well-lit image where the QR code fills at least 1/3 of the frame.
Can I scan damaged or partially visible QR codes?
QR codes have built-in error correction (up to 30% of the code can be damaged and still decode). If most of the code is visible and the three large corner markers are intact, scanning will usually work. Completely covered or torn corners will prevent decoding.
Why does my camera show "permission denied"?
Your browser needs permission to access the camera. Click the camera icon in your browser address bar to review and grant permission. On iOS Safari, you may need to enable camera access in Settings → Safari → Camera.
Is this safer than a phone camera QR reader?
Yes, in one important way: mobile QR apps often open URLs immediately when scanned, which can lead to phishing. This tool shows you the decoded text first so you can verify it before clicking. Always check the destination URL of any scanned QR code before visiting it — malicious QR codes are increasingly common.