Top QR Code Scanner Apps (For iPhone and Android)
QR codes are everywhere, from restaurant menus to concert tickets. However, you need a QR code scanner to access the information encoded in these QR codes.
The scanner apps easily direct you from black-and-white squares to websites, social media profiles, or even hidden discounts.
We bring you this guide that lists the top QR code scanner apps for iPhone and Android.
What is a QR code scanner?
A QR code scanner can read QR codes from print materials and digital devices. They are built into the camera app of some smartphones, but for ease of scanning and improved functionality, you can also download a dedicated QR code scanner app.
The scanner uses your device’s camera to capture the QR code image. Then, it decodes the pattern of black and white squares to showcase the information linked to the QR code, which could be a URL, text, images, or video.
What to look for in a good QR code scanner app
Choosing the right QR code scanner app can significantly improve your scanning experience. Whether you’re on Android or iOS, the best apps go beyond basic functionality. Here are the essential features to look for when selecting a top-performing QR code readers:
1. Fast and accurate scanning
The app should instantly detect and process QR codes without needing perfect alignment or lighting. Accuracy ensures you land on the correct content every time.
2. Compatibility with multiple formats
It should support not just QR codes, but also barcodes, and other popular code types for broader utility.
3. Minimal permissions and no tracking
A good scanner doesn’t ask for unnecessary access or track your data, keeping your privacy intact.
4. Scan from images and gallery
Look for apps that let you upload a saved image or screenshot to extract QR code data easily.
5. History and export options
The scanner should store past scans and offer export features so you can revisit or back up important links.
6. No or limited ads in free version
A clutter-free interface with minimal interruptions makes for a smoother scanning experience, even in the free version.
7. Cross-platform support
Choose apps available on both Android and iOS, especially if you switch devices or need consistency across platforms.
8. Extra features
Features like flashlight toggle, auto-open links, or QR code creation can add extra convenience to daily use.
Video – Best QR Code scanning apps
Top QR code scanner apps for iPhone and Android
1- QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play
Available on: Google Play Store
Average rating: 4.6
Number of downloads: 500M+
Price: Free
QR & Barcode Scanner app by Gamma Play is a free QR code scanner for Android that lets you scan QR codes and barcodes with your phone’s camera. It can decode various QR code formats, including text, URLs, and contact details. The app has automatic scanning, so you don’t need to fiddle with buttons or adjust zoom.
| Pros | Cons |
| 1. Prioritizes user privacy by only accessing the camera for scanning without any added permissions 2. Backs up scan history to revisit past scans 3. Works well with both mobile phone and tablet | 1.Displays ads 2.Some users report that frequent scanning drains battery life 3.Data once uploaded on the app, cannot be deleted |
2- QR code reader & QR code Scanner by Tahoe Digital LTD
Available on: Google Play Store
Average rating: 4.2
Number of downloads: 1M+
Price: Free. Paid versions starting from $3.49
The QR code reader & QR code Scanner offers a free plan to scan QR codes easily. It also has a paid version that unlocks additional features like ad removal, premium scanning speeds, and advanced QR code formats.
| Pros | Cons | |
| 1.Scans QR codes from both camera and camera roll 2.Has additional security features like scan history deletion 3.Works well with both mobile phone and tablet | 1.Credit card details required to use the free version 2.Some users have reported being charged automatically for the paid version 3.The free version has ads | |
3- QR Code & Barcode Scanner by TeaCapps
Available on: Google Play Store and Apple App Store
Average rating: 4.4 on Google Play Store and 4.7 on Apple App Store
Number of downloads: 50M+
Price: Free. Paid versions starting from $3.99
QR Code & Barcode Scanner by TeaCapps is a free QR scanner app that scans all types of QR codes. It also has a paid version starting at $3.99, which provides users access to unlimited scan history. Users can also scan large amounts of QR codes at once.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons | |
| 1.Ability to scan QR codes saved in the camera roll 2.Does not require credit card details to sign up 3.Recognizes even damaged QR codes | 1.Asks for full tracking permissions like location and data across apps 2.Displays ads 3.Only works with iOS 12.0 and above | |
4- QR Code & Barcode Scanner by GY Company
Available on: Apple App Store
Average rating: 4.2
Number of downloads: NA
Price: Free. Paid plans start from $1.19
The QR code scanner by GY Company is a free iPhone app that supports various code types, such as UPC-E, EAN 13, Aztec, and more. The app has a dark mode that ensures easy scanning even in low-light conditions.
| Pros | Cons | |
| 1.Supports multiple languages like English, Chinese, and more 2.The dark mode comes with an in-built flashlight 3.Backs up scan history to revisit past scans | 1.Includes identifiers to track data across your apps 2.The free version displays ads 3.Only works with iOS 14.0 and above | |
5- QR Code & Barcode Scanner by QR Easy
Available on: Google Play Store
Average rating: 4.5
Number of downloads: 10M+
Price: Free
The QR Code & Barcode Scanner by QR Easy can scan barcodes and QR codes from your camera. The app also saves a history of scanned codes for easy reference. You can also delete previously scanned codes if needed.
| Pros | Cons | |
| 1.Scans QR codes directly through the camera 2.Can operate the phone’s flashlight from within the app 3.Responsive support | 1.Sends unnecessary notifications at times 2.Doesn’t scan if the QR code is too near 3.Unable to scan existing QR codes saved as images | |
6- QR code reader & scanner by TOH Talent Team
Available on: Google Play Store
Average rating: 4.1
Number of downloads: 1M+
Price: Free
The QR Code Reader by TOH scans and interprets various QR code types, such as text, URLs, ISBNs, contacts, calendars, emails, locations, and Wi-Fi. It operates with minimal user input and button-less scanning. The scanner can also automatically adjust the zoom, enabling scans from any distance.
| Pros | Cons | |
| 1.Works well with both mobile phone and tablet 2.Shows QR scan history 3.Doesn’t collect any additional user data | 1.Usually unable to scan QR codes that redirect users to books 2.Cannot scan QR codes stored in the camera roll 3.Displays ads | |
7- QR Code Reader by TinyLab
Available on: Apple App Store
Average rating: 4.7
Number of downloads: 400k+
Price: Free. Paid plans start from $2.99
The free QR code scanner for iOS supports 15+ types of QR codes. It also includes add-on features like scan history, batch scan, and folders for organizing different QR codes. The paid plans start at $2.99 and let you scan unlimited times.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons | |
| 1.Multilingual and supports over 20 languages 2.Folders make it easy to organize scanned codes 3.The support team is proactive | 1.Paid plans are expensive compared to others 2.Some users report auto-renews and difficulty in canceling subscription 3.Free plan has scan limits and ads | |
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FAQs
What’s the difference between a QR code scanner and a generator?
A QR code app scanner is used to read existing QR codes, while a QR code generator helps you create new ones. QR scanners decode data from printed or digital codes. On the other hand, a generator lets you turn links, text, or files into a scannable code. Both tools serve different purposes but work together in the QR ecosystem. You’ll often use both by creating codes for your business with a generator and verifying them with a scanner to ensure they work correctly.
Is it safe to scan QR codes from unknown sources?
Not always. While the best QR code scanner app options may offer safety features, malicious codes can still lead to phishing websites or data theft. Always use a trusted app to scan QR codes with security alerts or URL previews, especially if you’re scanning unfamiliar or unverified QR codes from unknown sources. It’s also wise to avoid scanning QR codes from suspicious flyers, emails, or random public spaces without context.
Q. Are QR scanner apps free to use?
Many QR code scanners for Android and iOS offer free versions, but not all features are unlocked in them. Most of the free QR code scanners include basic scanning, while premium features (like history export or ad removal) require a subscription. Hence, when choosing a scanner app, check if it’s a free or freemium model before downloading. Also, reading reviews before downloading helps ensure you pick a reliable scanner with good performance and minimal ads.
