How Do I Scan a QR code With a PDF on My Computer?

Jonathan Palley Apr 2, 2025

QR codes have become an integral part of modern life, enabling users to access websites, discounts, tickets, and other information quickly and easily. However, what happens when you need to scan a QR code embedded in a PDF file on your computer?

Whether you're trying to access a digital brochure, a ticket, or a link in an e-book, knowing how to scan a QR code from a PDF can be incredibly useful. This guide walk you through various methods to scan QR codes from PDFs using your computer.

Why Would You Want to Scan a QR Code from a PDF?

QR codes are often used in digital documents like brochures, user manuals, and event tickets to give users quick access to websites or other content. While it’s easy to scan a QR code using a smartphone, scanning from a PDF on your computer can seem a bit more complicated. But what most don't realize is that it’s definitely possible!

Here are a few common reasons you might want to scan a QR code from a PDF:

Accessing a link or website: QR codes often link to promotional websites, sign-ups, or product information.
Saving time: Instead of typing a URL manually, scanning a QR code can take you straight to the website or content.
Digital tickets and event passes: QR codes in PDF tickets can be scanned for entry at events.

How to Scan a QR Code from a PDF on a Computer

Now, let’s look into how you can scan these QR codes from PDFs.

There are a few different ways to scan a QR code from a PDF using your computer, depending on your preferences and the tools available. Let's explore them:

Using Online QR Code Scanners

Online QR code scanners are one of the easiest ways to scan a QR code from a PDF. Here's how you can do it:

Download the PDF: Save the PDF that contains the QR code onto your computer.
Find an online QR code scanner: Go to a website that offers free QR code scanning services such as QRCode Monkey or QRStuff.
Upload the PDF: Use the website’s "Upload" feature to upload your PDF. The website will automatically detect the QR code embedded in the file.
Scan the QR code: The website will process the QR code and provide you with the content or link associated with it.

Online QR code scanners are quick and easy to use, especially if you're dealing with just one or two QR codes.

Using Dedicated QR Code Reader Software

If you frequently need to scan QR codes from PDFs, a dedicated QR code reader software can save you time. Many apps are available for both Windows and macOS that allow you to scan QR codes directly from images, PDFs, or screenshots. Some popular options include:

QR Code Reader (Windows/Mac): A lightweight desktop application that allows you to scan QR codes from any image or document.
Adobe Acrobat Reader (Windows/Mac): While Adobe doesn’t have a built-in QR scanner, its OCR (optical character recognition) technology can sometimes help in extracting embedded links from text-based QR codes. You can use the snapshot tool to capture the QR code image and then use third-party software to decode it.

To use these programs, simply open the PDF in the reader and either use the software’s built-in scanning tool or take a screenshot of the QR code to scan it.

Using Screenshot or Snipping Tools

If you don't want to download extra software or use online tools, you can capture the QR code from a PDF and scan it using an image-based QR code scanner.

Here’s how to do it:

Take a screenshot: Open the PDF and find the QR code you want to scan. Use a screenshot or snipping tool to capture the QR code. On Windows, you can use the Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch. On macOS, you can use the built-in screenshot tool (Cmd + Shift + 4).
Save the image: Once you’ve captured the QR code, save the image to your computer.
Use an online QR code scanner: Upload the screenshot to an online QR code scanner like QR Code Scanner or QRStuff to decode the QR code.

This method is particularly useful if you're only scanning a small number of QR codes and prefer a more hands-on approach.

Using QR Code Scanning Apps for Desktop

Some apps are specifically designed for scanning QR codes directly from images or PDFs on your desktop. These apps typically allow you to drag and drop PDF files or images and scan QR codes instantly.

Two examples include:

QR Code Desktop Reader (Windows/Mac): This app allows you to scan QR codes directly from any image file, including PDFs and screenshots.
QR Reader for Mac: A simple app available on the Mac App Store that can scan QR codes directly from screenshots or images.

Once the QR code is scanned, the app will either show the URL, display the content, or open the associated website for you.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, scanning QR codes from PDFs can come with challenges. Here are a few common issues and how to solve them:

Blurry QR Codes: If the QR code is blurry or difficult to read, try zooming in on the area of the PDF that contains the QR code. A higher-quality screenshot may help in getting a clearer image.
PDF Security Settings: Some PDFs have security settings that prevent copying or editing. If this is the case, you might need to use software that can bypass these restrictions (or contact the document’s creator for an unprotected version).
Low-Resolution QR Codes: If the QR code in the PDF is low resolution, it may be difficult for a scanner to recognize. In this case, you can try increasing the resolution of the image or capturing a better screenshot.

Conclusion

Scanning QR codes from PDFs on your computer is a simple task with the right tools. Whether you’re using online QR code scanners, dedicated desktop apps, or just taking a screenshot, there are multiple methods to help you easily access the information embedded in a PDF.

If you need to generate QR codes for your own PDFs, be sure to check out QR Codes Unlimited, a dynamic QR code generator that makes creating and managing QR codes effortless. With the right tools, you can enhance your digital documents and share information seamlessly.