Supported QR Code Formats
QR codes come in several shapes and sizes, each tailored to meet different needs in terms of data capacity, physical space, and scanning flexibility. Whether you're printing on a large shipping label or embedding codes on tiny hardware components, IronQR supports all major QR standards to help you get the job done.
This article introduces the three QR variants that IronQR can generate and read, with a quick code sample to help you get started immediately.
QR code supported variants
Two-dimensional (2D) matrix codes offer a compact and reliable way to store more information than traditional barcodes. IronQR supports the following QR types:
QR Code
The standard, square QR code used globally—from mobile payments to restaurant menus, logistics, marketing, and more.
Data Capacity: Up to 7,089 numeric or 4,296 alphanumeric characters
Error Correction: Four levels (Low, Medium, High, Highest) ensure data recovery even when part of the code is scratched, smudged, or obscured
- Use Case: Ideal for general-purpose applications requiring moderate to large data capacity and high reliability
This is the most recognized and widely used QR code format, balancing capacity, scanning range, and flexibility across all industries.
Micro QR Code
A miniaturized version of the standard QR code, designed for scenarios where space is extremely limited—such as electronics, retail tags, or warranty seals.
Data Capacity: Up to 35 numeric or 21 alphanumeric characters
Efficiency: Takes up less space and is faster to scan due to reduced module size
- Use Case: Best suited for labeling tiny items, component tracking, or places where only a small amount of data needs to be stored
While it supports fewer characters than a standard QR code, Micro QR is highly effective in constrained physical environments.
Rectangular Micro Code (RMQRCode)
A compact rectangular format designed to fit into narrow or elongated areas where square codes don't work well.
Data Capacity: Comparable to Micro QR Code
Shape Advantage: Offers flexibility in layouts where rectangular print areas are available
- Use Case: Perfect for forms, edge-of-label applications, and ticketing where width or height is restricted but not both
RMQRCode is functionally similar to Micro QR but provides layout adaptability not available with square formats.
Quick-start snippet
Use the code below to generate a QR code with your preferred encoding. You can easily switch between the three supported types by changing the Encoding value.
:path=/static-assets/qr/content-code-examples/how-to/create-qr-code-with-encoding-type.csusing IronQr;
using IronQr.Enum;
// Generate a Micro QR code and save it as PNG
QrCode myQr = QrWriter.Write(
"Hello IronQR",
new QrOptions { Encoding = QrEncoding.MicroQRCode });
myQr.Save("hello.png");
Imports IronQr
Imports IronQr.Enum
' Generate a Micro QR code and save it as PNG
Private myQr As QrCode = QrWriter.Write("Hello IronQR", New QrOptions With {.Encoding = QrEncoding.MicroQRCode})
myQr.Save("hello.png")To generate a standard QR Code or RMQRCode, simply use QrEncoding.QRCode or QrEncoding.RMQRCode.
QrEncoding.All to let IronQR automatically detect the format of any QR code. This is especially useful in mixed-code environments.Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main QR code formats supported by IronQR?
IronQR supports three main QR code formats: standard QR Code, Micro QR Code, and Rectangular Micro Code (RMQRCode), each tailored for different use cases and data capacities.
How can I generate a QR code in C# with IronQR?
You can use IronQR to generate QR codes in C# by utilizing the QrEncoding property. For instance, use QrEncoding.QRCode for standard QR Codes, or QrEncoding.RMQRCode for Rectangular Micro Codes.
What is the difference between a standard QR Code and a Micro QR Code?
A standard QR Code has a high data capacity, supporting up to 7,089 numeric or 4,296 alphanumeric characters, while a Micro QR Code is smaller, holding up to 35 numeric or 21 alphanumeric characters, ideal for space-constrained environments.
Why would I choose RMQRCode over other QR code formats?
RMQRCode is ideal for layouts that require rectangular print areas, providing a compact solution for environments where square codes are unsuitable, such as forms and edge-of-label applications.
How does IronQR handle different QR code formats in the same environment?
By setting QrEncoding.All, IronQR can automatically detect the format of any QR code, making it efficient for environments with mixed QR code types.
What factors should I consider when selecting a QR code format?
When choosing a QR code format, consider the data capacity required, the physical space available, and the scanning environment. IronQR provides multiple formats to suit various needs.
Can IronQR read QR codes with damaged sections?
Yes, standard QR Codes generated with IronQR support four levels of error correction, allowing data recovery even if part of the code is damaged.
What are the benefits of using Micro QR Codes?
Micro QR Codes are beneficial in space-limited scenarios due to their smaller size and faster scanning capabilities, making them suitable for electronics, retail tags, and warranty seals.
How do I choose the right error correction level for my QR Code?
Choose the error correction level based on the environment your QR Code will be used in. IronQR offers Low, Medium, High, and Highest levels to ensure data integrity even if the code is partially damaged.
What is the best QR code format for logistics and marketing?
The standard QR Code is best for logistics and marketing due to its high data capacity, wide recognition, and robust error correction capabilities.
Zeeshan Wazir is a Full Stack Developer with a strong background in PHP (Laravel), C#, and ASP.NET. He's also skilled in Python scripting, often using it to streamline and automate complex tasks.
With an MPhil in Computer Science, Zeeshan combines deep technical knowledge with hands-on experience ...Read More
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