How To Scan A QR Code From A Screenshot
Sally Wright
Sep 2, 2025
QR codes are everywhere. From digital menus and event tickets to Wi-Fi access and payment systems. As QR codes become an essential part of our digital lives, many people wonder: "Can I scan a QR code from a screenshot?" The answer is yes, and it’s easier than you might think.
Whether you've saved a QR code from a website, received one through email, or took a screenshot from your friend's phone, this guide will walk you through how to scan it directly from your device without needing to print it or scan it with another phone.
Why You Might Need to Scan a QR Code From a Screenshot
There are several scenarios where scanning a QR code from a screenshot becomes useful:
- You received a QR code via WhatsApp, email, or social media and took a screenshot for later use.
- You found a QR code on a website and screenshotted it rather than scanning it live.
- You want to access a code that was shared with you in a video or a webinar.
Instead of juggling two devices or printing out the image, there are faster, smarter ways to scan QR codes directly from your screen.
How to Scan QR Codes from Screenshots on Mobile Devices
On Android
Most modern Android phones come with built-in tools that make this process seamless:
- Using Google Photos: Open the screenshot in Google Photos and tap the Google Lens icon. Lens will automatically detect and scan the QR code, displaying any associated link or action.
- Using Google Lens App: If you don’t use Google Photos, you can open the Google Lens app directly and import the screenshot from your gallery.
- Third-Party Apps: Apps like QR & Barcode Scanner also allow you to upload an image to be scanned.
On iPhone (iOS)
Apple has made QR code scanning from screenshots easier over time:
- Photos App with Live Text (iOS 15+): Simply open your screenshot in the Photos app. If your device supports Live Text, it will detect the QR code and show an interactive link or prompt.
- Code Scanner from Control Center: While this works better with live scanning, some apps let you copy an image into the scanner if needed.
- Third-Party Apps: Apps like QRbot or QR Reader for iPhone allow you to upload screenshots for scanning.
How to Scan QR Codes from Screenshots on Desktop
If you’re working from a Windows PC or Mac, you still have easy options:
- Online QR Code Scanners: Websites like webqr.com or qrscanner.org let you upload an image of the QR code. Once uploaded, the tool scans it and provides a clickable link or relevant information.
- Browser Extensions: Chrome extensions like “QR Code Reader” can scan QR codes from images right in your browser.
- Transfer to Mobile: If all else fails, simply send the screenshot to your mobile phone and use one of the methods mentioned above.
Tips for Better Scanning Results
Scanning a QR code from a screenshot is generally easy, but there are a few things you can do to make sure your scan works the first time. Here are six quick tips to improve your chances of a successful scan:
Make sure the full QR code is visible
The entire code must be included in the screenshot. If it’s cropped or cut off, most scanners won’t recognize it.
Use high-resolution screenshots
Blurry or low-quality images can make it hard for QR scanners to detect the code. Use your device’s native screenshot function for the best clarity.
Avoid background clutter
If the QR code is surrounded by a busy background (like a webpage with lots of ads), crop the image to focus just on the code before uploading it.
Increase brightness or contrast
If the QR code is dark or low contrast, consider editing the image slightly to brighten it. Some editing apps or built-in photo tools can help.
Use a reliable scanning app
Not all QR scanning apps support image uploads. Choose one that’s known to support scanning from gallery images or screenshots.
Try zooming in if needed
If the code is too small in the screenshot, zoom in before uploading it to a scanner. This helps the app detect it more accurately.
Stay Safe: Be Cautious When Scanning
While scanning from screenshots is convenient, remember to verify the source of the QR code. Malicious QR codes can redirect to phishing sites or harmful downloads. Use scanners that preview the URL before opening it, and avoid scanning codes from untrusted sources.
Final Thoughts
Scanning a QR code from a screenshot is not just possible—it’s quick and convenient with the right tools. Whether you're on Android, iPhone, or desktop, there are multiple ways to get the job done without needing to scan from a printed image or second screen.
At QR Codes Unlimited, we believe in making QR code technology accessible and user-friendly. If you're looking to create your own codes or want to learn more QR tips and tricks, stay tuned to our blog for expert advice and tutorials.
