Paper finish changes how light reflects off the page — and phone cameras struggle with hot spots on glossy stock. For QR-heavy materials, matte often outperforms glossy in restaurants, retail, and outdoor signage.
Glossy paper: pros and cons
- Pros: Rich colors, premium feel, durable coating
- Cons: Specular glare under downlights and sunlight
- QR impact: Modules can wash out when glare hits finder corners
Matte paper: pros and cons
- Pros: Diffuse reflection, easier scanning in dim dining rooms
- Cons: Slightly softer color pop; may show fingerprints on dark ink
- QR impact: More reliable scans without tilting the phone
When glossy can still work
Laminated outdoor posters with anti-glare laminate, or glossy inserts scanned at close range under even lighting, often pass testing. Always run a proof — see complete printing guide.
Lamination tips
Matte lamination over matte paper is the safest combo for table QR menus. Gloss lamination on a glossy menu doubles reflection risk. Size the code generously per size guidelines.
Export sharp codes from QRCode Lab. If scans fail despite good paper, check general troubleshooting.