How to Scan a QR Code on a Computer (or from an Image)
QR codes are everywhere, but they assume you have a phone in hand. What if the QR code is already onyour screen — in an email, a PDF, or a screenshot — or you just want to scan one at your desk? Here's how to scan a QR code on a computer, either with your webcam or straight from an image, for free and without uploading anything.
Two ways to scan
Open the QR Code Scanner, then either:
- Upload an image — drop in a screenshot or photo that contains the QR code, and it's decoded instantly.
- Use your camera — click Scan with camera and hold the code up to your webcam.
As soon as it reads the code you'll see the content — text, a link, Wi-Fi details, and so on — with a one-click copy button, plus an Open linkbutton when it's a URL.
When the image scan is the better choice
- The QR is already a screenshot — no need to point a phone at your own screen.
- It's inside a PDF or email — screenshot it and upload.
- Blurry camera scans — a clean saved image reads more reliably.
Is it safe?
Decoding happens entirely in your browser — your image and camera frames never leave your device. One tip that applies to any scanner: a QR code is just a link or text, so check where a link goes before you open it, the same way you would with any URL.
Need to create QR codes too?
The scanner's counterpart is the QR Code Generator— make a code for any link or text. There's also a Wi-Fi QR generator (guests scan to join your network) and a bulk QR generator for making many at once.
FAQ
Do I need to install an app?
No — it runs in your browser on desktop or mobile. Nothing to install.
Is my image or camera uploaded?
No — decoding is done locally in your browser; images and camera frames never leave your device.
Does camera scanning work on my phone?
Yes, on a secure (https) connection. If the camera isn't available, upload a photo of the code instead.
What can it read?
Any standard QR code — links, plain text, Wi-Fi credentials, contact cards, and more.