How to change the color of a QR code (and keep it scannable)

QR codes don't have to be black and white. You can color them to match your brand, but scanners rely on contrast between the dark modules and the light background, so a few rules keep a colored code readable.

Rules for a scannable colored code

• Keep the modules dark and the background light — high contrast is what scanners need.
• Don't invert it (light modules on a dark background) unless you've tested that your scanner handles it; many don't.
• Avoid low-contrast pairings like light gray on white or two similar colors.
• Keep the quiet-zone margin, and test on several phones before printing.

Good combinations

A dark brand color (deep blue, green, maroon) on a white or very light background usually scans well. When in doubt, the closer you stay to dark-on-light, the more reliable the code.