QR codes for museums, galleries and self-guided tours
A wall label has room for a title, a date and a sentence. Visitors usually want more, and they want it in their own language, at their own pace. A small code beside the label can open the longer story, an audio clip or a photo of the object's history.
Exhibits rotate. A dynamic code stays on the label holder while you change what it opens, so the same print serves for the next exhibition.
This is a dynamic QR code: $3 once, and you can change where it points at any time without reprinting. How that works
How do museums use QR codes on labels?
Most use one code per object or per stop. Each opens a short page with an image, a few paragraphs, and an audio button. Some link to the same page in several languages.
- Keep each page to one screen of text before the audio button.
- Say how long an audio clip is, so visitors know what they are starting.
How big should a label QR code be, and where does it go?
Visitors scan from a standing position about 40 to 60 cm (16 to 24 inches) from the label.
| Scanning distance | Minimum code size | Placement |
|---|---|---|
| 30 to 40 cm (hand-held card) | 2.5 cm (1 inch) | Printed guide, ticket |
| 40 to 60 cm (wall label) | 4 cm (1.6 inches) | Beside the label, at chest height |
| 1 to 2 m (large wall panel) | 10 to 20 cm (4 to 8 inches) | Panel corner, away from glare |
Do QR codes work in a gallery with low light?
Yes, if the code is printed dark on a light, matte surface. Spotlights cause glare on glossy labels, so avoid gloss and test the label under the real lights with two phones. Signal can also be weak inside thick walls, so keep pages light, and consider a free guest Wi-Fi network.
What about accessibility?
A code should never be the only way to get information. Keep the title and key facts printed on the label, and offer large-print or audio options at the front desk for visitors who cannot use a phone.
Example signs
Each example code opens threedollarqrcode.com. Your code can open any page you choose.
Questions
Can one code open audio in several languages?
Point it at a page with a language picker, or use separate codes for each language.
What if an exhibit moves?
Change the page the code opens. The label does not need reprinting.
Is it good for outdoor tours?
Yes. Use weatherproof stock and a code at least 4 cm square at each stop.
Can visitors scan without cell service?
They need a connection. Offer free Wi-Fi, or place a short printed summary beside the code.
Does it cost per exhibit?
One code is $3 once. Buy one per stop if you want separate scan counts.
Get a dynamic QR code for $3
Pay once. Pick the page your code opens, print it wherever you need it, and change the page whenever you like.
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