How to turn a PDF into a QR code (and update it without reprinting)
A PDF QR code is the quickest way to put a brochure, price list, manual or menu in someone's hand without printing pages. There are two ways to do it, and the right one depends on whether the file will change.
Option 1: upload the PDF and let us host it
Choose the PDF type, upload the file (up to 20 MB) and add a title. The code opens a short page with your title and an Open button, or the PDF straight away if you prefer. Because the code points at a page we host, you can upload a new version later and every printed code shows it.
Option 2: link to a PDF that's already online
If the PDF lives on your website, Google Drive or Dropbox, paste its public link instead. Check it opens in a private browser window without asking anyone to sign in. Google Drive links set to 'Restricted' are the most common reason PDF codes fail.
Make the PDF easy to read on a phone
- Export with 'reduce file size'. Under 3 MB opens in seconds on mobile data.
- Use a single column and large type. Multi-column print layouts need pinching and zooming.
- Put the important page first. People rarely scroll past page three on a phone.
- For a restaurant menu, consider the menu type, which builds a phone-friendly menu page instead of a PDF.
Static or dynamic?
A hosted PDF is always a dynamic code, so you can replace the file and see scan counts. A plain link to a PDF elsewhere can be static, but if that link changes, the printed code breaks. If the document will be updated, upload it.
- Upload the PDF or paste its public link. Up to 20 MB; smaller is faster.
- Add a title and choose how it opens. A short page first, or the PDF straight away.
- Style the code and add a caption. 'Scan for the full price list' says what people get.
- Save, download and test on mobile data. Open it on a phone that isn't on your WiFi.