How to use this calculator
This calculator finds the smallest standard QR code that can hold your message. Enter the number of characters you plan to encode (for example, the length of a URL), pick an error correction level, and set the physical size of one module (square) when printed. Click Calculate to see the minimum QR version, its grid size, the printed dimensions, and how much of that version's capacity your message uses. Click Clear to reset all fields.
Understanding the inputs
QR codes come in 40 standard sizes ("versions"), from Version 1 (21×21 modules) to Version 40 (177×177 modules), where each version adds 4 modules per side: modules = 4 × version + 17. Each version also has four error correction levels — L, M, Q, and H — that trade data capacity for damage tolerance using Reed-Solomon error correction. This calculator uses the standard byte-mode (8-bit) capacity table from ISO/IEC 18004, the encoding mode used by virtually all real-world QR generators for URLs, mixed text, and Unicode content.
Interpreting the results
The minimum QR version is the smallest of the 40 versions whose byte-mode capacity, at your chosen error correction level, is greater than or equal to your character count. The printed size adds the standard 4-module quiet zone (blank margin) required on every side before converting the grid to millimeters using your module size. Capacity used shows how much headroom you have — a low percentage means the code could absorb more data before needing a bigger version; a percentage near 100% means you are close to forcing the next version up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the calculator pick the QR code version?
What does the error correction level (L/M/Q/H) do?
What is the quiet zone and why does it change the printed size?
Why would the same message need a bigger QR code at a higher error correction level?
Common Tip Percentages
| Service | Typical Tip Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant (sit-down) | 15–20% | 20%+ for exceptional service |
| Food delivery | 10–20% | Consider extra for long distances |
| Taxi / rideshare | 10–20% | More for assistance with luggage |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2–5/night | Leave daily, not just at checkout |
| Barber / hair salon | 15–20% | On pre-discount total |
| Pizza delivery | 10–15% or $3–5 minimum | Higher in bad weather |
General Household Budget Ratios (50/30/20 Rule)
| Category | % of Net Income | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Needs | 50% | Rent, groceries, utilities, insurance |
| Wants | 30% | Dining out, entertainment, hobbies |
| Savings / Debt | 20% | Emergency fund, retirement, extra payments |
Common Measurement Conversions for Everyday Use
| Quantity | US / Imperial | Metric Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 8 fl oz | 237 mL |
| 1 pint | 16 fl oz | 473 mL |
| 1 quart | 32 fl oz | 946 mL |
| 1 gallon | 128 fl oz | 3.785 L |
| 1 lb | 16 oz | 453.6 g |
| 1 ft | 12 in | 30.48 cm |