Free · No sign-up · iPhone and Android
SMS QR code generator
Get text messages in one scan: the code opens the phone’s messaging app with your number and a ready-written message, like “JOIN” or “Book a table for 4”. They only tap send.
1Enter your SMS details
Include the country code.
2Customize colors
Presets
Error correction
Medium — still scans with ~15% damage.
4 is the recommended quiet zone.
How it works
How to make an SMS QR code
- 1
Enter the number
A mobile number or a short code that receives texts. Use the country code for ordinary mobile numbers.
- 2
Write the message
Keep it short and specific, like “JOIN OFFERS” or “Quote for kitchen repair”. People can edit it before sending.
- 3
Download and test
Scan with an iPhone and an Android phone: the message app should open with both fields filled in.
Generated entirely in your browser — nothing you type is uploaded.
How an SMS QR code works
The code stores your number and message in the standard SMSTO format that phone cameras recognise. Scanning offers to open Messages; the person sees exactly what will be sent, and to whom, before they tap send.
Texting works on every phone without an app or data connection, which makes SMS a good fit for opt-ins, contests, votes and bookings from people who may not use WhatsApp.
SMS or WhatsApp?
In countries where almost everyone uses WhatsApp, such as India and Brazil, a WhatsApp code usually gets more replies and lets you answer with photos and catalogues. SMS is better for keyword opt-ins, for older customers and in markets where texting is still the norm, such as the US. Standard message rates may apply for the sender.
Use cases
Ways to use SMS QR codes
Offers and opt-ins
“Text JOIN for 10% off” on posters, receipts and packaging.
Contests and giveaways
Entries by text, with the keyword already written.
Votes and feedback
Quick polls at events, in classrooms and on product displays.
Bookings
Salons, tutors and clinics: “Text to book” with the service named.
Quotes and call-backs
A trade’s van or flyer: “Text us a photo of the job”.
Out-of-hours requests
A shop window code for orders and questions after closing time.
Best practices
Tips for SMS QR codes
Pre-write the keyword
Typing a keyword correctly is where most SMS campaigns lose people.
Say what they’ll get
“Text to get today’s offer” beats “Scan me”. Mention if replies are automated.
Respect opt-in rules
Marketing texts usually need consent and an easy way to stop, such as replying STOP.
Test on both platforms
iPhone and Android handle the message field slightly differently; check both.
Static or dynamic?
A dynamic SMS code can switch campaigns
A static code is fixed to one number and message. A dynamic code lets you change the number, keyword or message for the next campaign without reprinting, and shows how many people scanned each poster.
- Free static SMS code
- Change the number or message anytime
- Scan analytics per placement
FAQ
SMS QR code questions
Yes. No sign-up, no watermark, and static codes never expire.
No. It opens the messaging app with the number and message filled in. The person decides whether to send it.
Yes. Enter the short code (for example 12345) as the number; leave out the country code for short codes.
The person sending it, at their normal message rate; texts are free on many plans.
More free QR code generators
- WhatsApp QR code generatorCustomers start a chat without saving your number.
- Phone number QR code generatorOpens the dialer with your number ready to call.
- Email QR code generatorA new email to you with the subject already written.
- Google Form QR code generatorMore survey, sign-up and RSVP responses in one scan.
- Telegram QR code generatorJoin your channel, group or bot in one scan.
- Business card QR code generatorYour contact details, website or LinkedIn on every card.
- All QR code types →Website, text, email, phone, SMS and more.
See which poster gets the most texts.
Create a free account for dynamic SMS codes with scan analytics.
Scan me — I’m real