How to create a QR code on Mac

The simplest method: SeventyQR

Open SeventyQR, type or paste your text or URL: the QR code draws itself in the window with every keystroke. Then pick an output: the Save button (crisp PNG), a drag and drop of the preview into Finder or any document, or ⌘C to copy it. Everything is generated locally on your Mac, with no website and no account.

Download the free SeventyQR trial (7 days, macOS 13+).

What to put in a QR code

• A web address: the most common case, the reader opens the page.
• Free text: a message, a reference, a serial number.
• A contact or an email: "mailto:you@example.com" opens a new message.
• Your home WiFi: the "WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:password;;" format connects whoever scans it.

Picking the size and error correction

For screens or a business card, 512 px is enough. Use 1024 px for a flyer and 2048 px for a poster. SeventyQR upscales with no interpolation: modules stay sharp squares, never blurry.

The error correction level (L, M, Q, H) keeps the QR readable even when damaged: M (15 percent) almost always works, go up to H (30 percent) if the QR may get folded, dirty or partially covered.

Why avoid online generators

Many "free" websites do not encode your content directly: they create a redirect link on their servers that tracks every scan and may expire or turn into a paid plan. Your printed poster then becomes a dead QR. SeventyQR encodes your content as-is, locally: the QR works forever.

Mistakes to avoid

• A QR that is too small: aim for at least 2 cm on printed material.
• Low contrast: dark on light remains the safe bet.
• No quiet zone: leave an empty margin around the QR, readers need it.
• Not testing before printing: always scan your QR once.

Get SeventyQR: 7-day trial, then a lifetime license.