How To Scan QR Code On Computer

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Sally Wright Sep 2, 2025
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QR codes are everywhere. On flyers, menus, websites, product packaging, and even digital business cards. Most of us are used to scanning them with our phones. 

But what if you're working on a desktop or laptop and need to scan a QR code without switching to your mobile device?

Good news: you can scan QR codes directly on your computer, and it’s easier than you think. Whether you have a built-in webcam, a saved image, or just want to scan from your browser, there’s a method that’ll work for you.

Here are five simple ways to scan a QR code using your computer:

1. Scan QR Codes with a Webcam

If your computer has a built-in webcam (or you have an external one), you can use it just like a mobile phone camera to scan physical QR codes.

How to do it:

  1. Go to a QR scanning website like WebQR.
  2. Grant camera access when prompted.
  3. Hold the QR code up to your webcam.
  4. The website will automatically detect and decode it.

Pros:

  • No installation required
  • Fast and simple for physical QR codes

Cons:

  • Doesn’t work well with digital QR codes or screenshots
  • Needs decent lighting and a clear image

2. Use a Desktop App

Prefer a dedicated tool? There are free desktop applications designed specifically for scanning QR codes on your computer.

Popular Apps:

  • QR Code Desktop Reader & Generator (Windows)
  • QR Journal (Mac)

How to use:

  1. Download and install the app.
  2. Open the program.
  3. Either scan using your webcam or upload an image file containing a QR code.
  4. The decoded content will be displayed instantly.

Pros:

  • Supports both webcam and file upload
  • Works offline in most cases

Cons:

  • Requires installation
  • Interface may not be user-friendly for everyone

3. Upload an Image with a QR Code

If you have a screenshot or a saved image of a QR code, you can scan it easily without a camera.

Try these free tools:

  • ZXing Decoder Online
  • QRStuff Decoder
  • Google Lens (via Chrome browser)

How to use:

  1. Open the tool in your browser.
  2. Upload your QR code image file.
  3. Click “Submit” or “Decode.”
  4. The site will show you the data embedded in the QR code.

Pros:

  • Great for scanned documents, PDFs, and screenshots
  • No camera needed

Cons:

  • Requires an internet connection
  • Not suitable for physical QR codes

4. Use a Browser Extension

There are many browser extensions that let you scan QR codes directly from a webpage. This is especially useful when you’re browsing and see a QR code you want to scan without using your phone.

Recommended Extensions:

  • QR Code Reader (Chrome)
  • Scan QR Code (Firefox)

How to use:

  1. Install the extension from the Chrome Web Store or Firefox Add-ons.
  2. Right-click any QR code image on a website.
  3. Select the extension's scan option.
  4. The result will pop up instantly.

Pros:

  • Super fast for scanning web-based QR codes
  • Doesn’t require saving images

Cons:

  • Only works in-browser
  • Needs installation and permissions

5. Use Google Lens in Chrome

If you’re using Google Chrome, you already have access to Google Lens—a surprisingly powerful tool for scanning QR codes.

How to use:

  1. Right-click the QR code image in your browser.
  2. Select “Search image with Google Lens.”
  3. A side panel will open showing the decoded content and links.

Pros:

  • No setup required
  • Built into Chrome browser
  • Works on almost any QR code image

Cons:

  • Requires Chrome browser
  • Doesn’t work for physical QR codes

Bonus: Scan QR Codes in PDFs or Documents

If a QR code is in a PDF or Word document:
  • Take a screenshot of the QR code.
  • Use one of the image upload methods above (Method #3).
  • You’re done!

A Quick Security Tip

Always be cautious when scanning unknown QR codes. Malicious QR codes can direct you to phishing websites or unsafe downloads. If you didn’t create or trust the source, don’t scan it blindly.

Conclusion

Whether you're scanning a printed code with your webcam or a screenshot from your email, you don’t need a smartphone to scan QR codes anymore. 

Try one of these methods and choose what works best for your setup.
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Sally Wright

Sep 2, 2025

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