How to Get a Neon QR Code (+ Material Selection and Software Recommendations)
In 2022, Forbes reported that small businesses used QR code neon signs during the pandemic to drive customer engagement. This method of contactless interaction through QR code neon signs became an essential tool for businesses seeking innovative ways to connect with customers while maintaining social distancing and catering to the health-conscious mindset of consumers.
In this article, we’ll explore what QR code neon signs are, how they’re being used in real-world applications, and why they’re becoming the next big trend in both marketing and design.
Part 1. What Are QR Code Neon Sign?
A QR code neon sign is a custom-designed neon light that incorporates a QR code within its visual structure. These signs are typically handcrafted, combining the vibrant glow of neon with the practical utility of QR codes. Whether installed in a store, cafe, or at an event, these signs serve a dual purpose: attracting attention and providing easy access to digital content. It also comes in various styles, such as the QR code neon sign wine glass commonly seen in bars.
Another notable form of QR code lighting is LED. LED QR Code and QR Code Neon Sign are creative lighting products that integrate QR code technology. LED QR Code uses LED lights to display a scannable QR code, making it ideal for store promotions, signage, and advertising, with a focus on functionality and efficiency. On the other hand, QR Code Neon Sign combines neon lights with creative designs, such as wine glasses or brand logos, offering both decorative appeal and interactive features through the QR code. It is commonly used in places like bars and restaurants, emphasizing visual impact and artistic flair.
Part 2. How QR Code Neon Sign is Made
Creating a QR code neon sign requires a balance of design expertise and technological precision. Designers typically start by generating a functional QR code using a QR code generator. This code is then transformed into a neon design by bending glass tubes into the desired shape. Each tube is filled with gas (usually neon or argon) that glows when an electrical current passes through it.
The process demands accuracy since even slight distortions in the QR code’s structure could render it unreadable by QR scanners. Designers ensure that the neon tubes follow the shape of the code’s grid, allowing for reliable scans from a distance while still maintaining an artistic flair. Some signs even use dynamic QR codes, which can be updated to point to new URLs or information without needing to change the physical design.
How to Design a Dynamic Neon QR Code
We highly recommend using iMyFone QRShow for this. As a powerful QR code generator, it allows you to customize QR code designs, and its dynamic QR codes let you update the content at any time without needing to regenerate the code. It also supports scan data tracking and analysis, making it an essential tool for creating neon QR codes.
1. Sign up for an account
- Generate QR codes for your images, portfolios, Google photos, etc.
- Help you make generating QR codes with transparent backgrounds easier.
- Customize your QR code with images, logos, frames, etc.
- Batch create QR codes, edit QR codes without creating a new one.
2. Create a dynamic QR code
Click “Create QR Code” and select “Dynamic QR Code.” Then, choose the type of QR code you want to generate based on your needs.
For example, if you want to turn a URL into a QR code, select "Website."
3. Design the QR code
For neon designs, it's recommended to use strong color contrasts to ensure the QR code can be easily scanned.
4. Generate and track data
Once the design is complete, click to generate your QR code. You can also monitor scan data in QRShow's analytics dashboard to optimize your future marketing strategies.
Part 3. Key Considerations for Designing a Scannable Neon QR Code
1. QR Code Scannability
High Contrast Colors: The QR code must have sufficient contrast for easy scanning. While black and white are typical, strong contrasting colors should be used in neon design to ensure the QR code is easily scannable.
Brightness of the Lights: The brightness of the neon sign should be balanced. Lights that are too bright or too dim can affect the code's readability. Choose a brightness level that avoids harsh reflections or blurriness.
2. QR Code Size and Complexity
Size: The QR code should be large enough for easy scanning, especially when displayed in public or outdoor spaces. Larger codes help ensure that users can scan them from a distance.
Complexity: Overly complex QR codes can make the neon design challenging. Consider simplifying the content (e.g., using a dynamic QR code) to reduce the number of small details.
3. Material Selection for the Neon Sign
Durability: The material used for the neon sign should be durable, particularly for outdoor displays. Weather-resistant materials ensure the neon sign remains functional over time.
Clarity: The material covering the QR code should be clear and transparent to allow light to shine through, ensuring the QR code details are visible and scannable.
4. Lighting Structure Design of the QR Code
Clear Borders: Ensure that the QR code's edges and modules (squares) are clearly defined in the neon design to maintain accurate scanning functionality.
Light Tube Arrangement: The bending and arrangement of the neon tubes should follow the QR code's geometry precisely. Misalignment could result in a distorted code that cannot be scanned.
5. Scanning Distance and Angle
Scanning Angles: Design the QR code neon sign to be scannable from multiple angles. This is especially important in public areas where users may view the sign from different directions.
Distance: Consider the placement and height of the neon sign based on the target scanning distance. Ensure the sign is neither too high nor too low for optimal user experience.
6. Protection Features
Water and Dust Resistance: For outdoor neon QR codes, ensure that the sign is waterproof and dustproof to maintain brightness and QR code readability in various weather conditions.
Wind Resistance: The neon sign should also be designed to withstand strong winds, ensuring the tubes and QR code structure remain intact and functional.
Part 4. Real-Life Applications of LED QR Code
1. Restaurants and Cafes
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of QR codes in the hospitality industry, with restaurants and cafes adopting them for contactless menus. Some venues are now taking it a step further by incorporating QR code neon signs into their decor. Imagine walking into a trendy café and scanning a neon-lit QR code to access the menu—no physical menus needed, and it adds a modern, stylish touch to the ambiance.
For instance, in cities like Los Angeles and New York, QR code neon signs have been popping up in chic restaurants that want to offer a seamless digital experience while maintaining their trendy aesthetic. Patrons are greeted by a glowing neon QR code at the entrance, inviting them to scan and check out daily specials, place orders, or even pay their bills—all through their smartphones.
2. Retail Stores
Retail environments are increasingly integrating QR codes to enhance customer experiences, and QR code neon signs offer an engaging way to do so. Stores can use the QR code sign for business
A well-known example is Nike’s use of neon QR code signs in their flagship stores. Customers can scan the neon signs to access exclusive online deals, product releases, or in-store events. This type of integration bridges the gap between physical retail spaces and digital engagement, providing a unique shopping experience that feels modern and interactive.
3. Events and Exhibitions
QR code neon signs have also made their way into the world of events, from art exhibitions to concerts and conferences. Event organizers use these signs as an eye-catching way to share important information like schedules, speaker bios, or links to event materials. Visitors can simply scan the glowing QR code to get all the information they need on their phones.
At the 2023 CES (Consumer Electronics Show), several exhibitors used QR code neon signs to direct attendees to product demos, videos, and catalogs. This allowed for easy access to more detailed information while enhancing the visual appeal of their booths. Similarly, music festivals are adopting this technology to share lineups, venue maps, and other details in a fun, memorable way.
4. Art Installations
Artists are exploring the potential of QR codes as part of their work, using neon signs to merge digital content with physical art. These installations invite viewers to engage with the artwork by scanning the code to access hidden layers of meaning, artist interviews, or augmented reality experiences. It’s a way of creating interactive art that encourages deeper exploration.
A notable example comes from a 2022 art installation in Tokyo, where neon QR codes were part of a larger multimedia project. Visitors could scan the neon codes to unlock virtual reality experiences that complemented the physical artwork. This blending of light, technology, and art created an immersive, futuristic, and engaging experience.
Conclusion
QR code neon signs represent a perfect fusion of design and technology, offering a creative way to engage customers while adding a unique aesthetic touch. From restaurants to retail stores, events to art installations, these signs are making waves across various industries. As businesses continue to explore new ways to connect with their audiences, QR code neon signs are sure to become a defining feature of modern marketing and design.
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