Hosting Your PDF
The PDF must be accessible via a public URL. Options: your own web server (most reliable), cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox — shareable links), document hosting services. Ensure the URL is stable — if it changes, you'll need to reprint your QR code.
PDF Viewing on Mobile
PDFs open natively on iOS and reasonably well on Android. However, the experience is not ideal for complex multi-page documents — small text, no reflowing, slow on poor connections. Consider providing an HTML version of key content alongside the PDF.
File Size Matters
A large PDF file (10MB+) provides a poor experience on mobile networks. Compress your PDF before hosting. A 1MB PDF loads in seconds on a typical mobile connection; a 10MB PDF frustrates and loses users.
Analytics for PDF QR Codes
Neither web server logs nor Google Analytics tracks PDF downloads well by default. Add Google Analytics tracking to the redirect page before the PDF, or use a dynamic QR platform with built-in analytics.
PDF QR codes are effective for documentation and brochures. Ensure stable hosting, compress PDFs for mobile, and track engagement through a redirect page with analytics.