Short answer: QR codes do not have to be black and white. Phones read reflectance (dark vs light), not ink names. A navy code on cream can scan; yellow on white usually fails. The same physics applies to gekleurde QR-codes, coloured QR codes, and brand palettes.
Create a coloured static QR free in the QRCode Lab styler, or read the deep dive on white and inverted QR codes.
Can QR codes be different colors?
Yes. Pick any module color that stays clearly darker than the background. Brand blues, greens, and charcoal all work when contrast is strong. Soft pastels on light paper are the usual failure mode.
Safe customization guidelines
- Keep dark modules noticeably darker than the background
- Do not invert to white modules on black without testing — see white / inverted guide
- Preserve square finder patterns in high contrast
- Increase error correction if placing a center logo — EC levels
Common failures
- Pastel-on-pastel brand palettes
- Gradients crossing module boundaries
- Rounded corner styles that clip quiet zone
- Red codes on red packaging with glossy finish
Test protocol before you print
- Scan on screen at 100% zoom
- Print a desktop proof on the final paper stock
- Test iPhone, Android, and dim lighting
- Compare against a known-good black-and-white version
QRCode Lab (also searched as QR Lab / qrcodelab) ships scan-safe color defaults. More print tips: quality export · printing guide · style a free coloured QR.