QR codes have become an indispensable part of modern life, enabling everything from contactless payments and digital menus to secure logins and event check-ins. With QR code usage at an all-time high in 2025, the app you choose to scan them can make a significant difference in terms of speed, security, and convenience. Whether you’re a casual user or a business professional, selecting the right QR code scanner app ensures you can access information quickly, safely, and without unnecessary hassle.

This guide provides a detailed, up-to-date review of the top 10 QR code scanner apps for iOS and Android in 2025, focusing on security, speed, and user experience. We’ve analyzed the latest features, expert recommendations, and user feedback to help you make an informed choice.

Why You Need a Dedicated QR Code Scanner App in 2025

While most modern smartphones come with built-in QR code scanning capabilities via their camera apps, dedicated QR code scanner apps offer several advantages:

Enhanced Security: Many dedicated apps include real-time link verification, blocking malicious or phishing sites before you visit them. This is especially important as “quishing” (QR code phishing) attacks continue to rise.
Faster Scanning: Specialized apps are optimized for speed, often recognizing codes in less than a second, even in low light or from awkward angles.
Scan History: Most apps keep a log of your scans, allowing you to revisit links, contacts, or information without rescanning.
Barcode Support: Many QR code scanners also handle traditional barcodes, making them versatile tools for shopping, inventory, and logistics.
Custom Actions: Some apps let you customize what happens after a scan—such as copying text, saving contacts, or opening links in a specific browser.
Offline Functionality: Certain apps can scan and store information even without an internet connection, which is useful in remote or low-connectivity areas.

Key Features to Look for in a QR Code Scanner App

Not all QR code scanners are created equal. Here are the most important features to consider when choosing the best app for your needs:

Security: Look for apps that verify links before opening them, warn about suspicious content, and offer privacy protections. Apps like TrendMicro’s Safe QR Code Reader and Kaspersky QR Scanner are designed with security as a priority.
Speed and Accuracy: The best apps scan codes instantly, even in challenging conditions (e.g., low light, damaged codes, or unusual angles). NeoReader and QRbot are known for their lightning-fast performance.
User Interface: A clean, intuitive interface makes scanning effortless. Avoid apps cluttered with ads or unnecessary permissions.
Platform Support: Ensure the app is available for your device (iOS, Android, or both) and is regularly updated for compatibility and security patches.
Scan History: The ability to save and revisit past scans is invaluable for both personal and professional use.
Additional Features: Some apps offer extras like barcode scanning, QR code generation, batch scanning, or integration with other tools (e.g., Google Lens for AI-powered searches).

Top 10 QR Code Scanner Apps for iOS & Android in 2025

1. TrendMicro’s Safe QR Code Reader

Platforms: iOS, Android

Best for: Security-conscious users who prioritize protection against malicious links.

TrendMicro’s Safe QR Code Reader is widely regarded as the safest option for both iOS and Android. Developed by a leading cybersecurity firm, this app scans QR codes and checks the embedded links for potential threats in real time. It blocks suspicious websites and provides a scan history for easy reference. The Android version is particularly robust, offering additional features like gallery scanning and a cleaner interface compared to the iOS version.

Key Features:

Real-time link verification and malware protection.
Scan history with detailed logs.
No intrusive ads or unnecessary permissions.
Available as “Trend Micro Mobile Security” on iOS and “QR Scanner” on Android.

2. QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play

Platforms: iOS, Android

Best for: Users who want a fast, reliable, and feature-rich scanning experience.

With over 500 million downloads and a 4.5-star rating, QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play is one of the most popular choices. It supports all QR and barcode formats, offers a scan history, and allows users to scan codes from images in their gallery. The app is free but includes ads, which can be removed with a one-time purchase.

Key Features:

Scans QR codes and barcodes in under a second.
Flashlight toggle for low-light scanning.
Scan history with quick access to past scans.
Supports batch scanning and custom actions.

3. QRbot

Platforms: iOS, Android

Best for: Users who want a clean, ad-free interface with advanced features.

QRbot is a lightweight, elegant app that handles both QR and barcodes with ease. It offers a robust scanning engine, scan history, and the ability to generate QR codes. The app is entirely ad-free, making it ideal for users who want a distraction-free experience.

Key Features:

No ads or unnecessary permissions.
Fast and accurate scanning.
Scan history and QR code generation.
Supports scanning from images.

4. NeoReader

Platforms: iOS, Android

Best for: Power users who scan a variety of code formats.

NeoReader is a veteran in the QR scanning world, known for its versatility and speed. It supports multiple code formats, including QR, Aztec, and Data Matrix, and opens links instantly without requiring confirmation. The app is free and highly rated for its reliability.

Key Features:

Supports a wide range of code formats.
Instant link opening.
Scan history and flashlight support.
Minimalist design with no clutter.

5. Kaspersky QR Scanner

Platforms: iOS, Android

Best for: Users who want maximum security and cybersecurity features.

Developed by the renowned cybersecurity company Kaspersky, this app is designed to protect users from malicious QR codes. It scans links for safety, provides warnings for suspicious content, and saves a history of all scans. Note: Due to geopolitical restrictions, Kaspersky apps may not be available in all regions.

Key Features:

Real-time security checks for malicious links.
Scan history and automatic warnings.
No ads or unnecessary data collection.

6. QR Code Reader by TeaCapps

Platforms: iOS, Android

Best for: Users who want a simple, fast, and customizable scanner.

QR Code Reader by TeaCapps is highly rated for its speed, simplicity, and customization options. It offers a zoom feature for scanning distant codes, a clean interface, and the ability to export scan history. The free version includes ads, which can be removed with a one-time purchase.

Key Features:

Pinch-to-zoom for scanning small or distant codes.
Unlimited scan history and CSV export.
Minimal permissions required.

7. Google Lens

Platforms: iOS, Android

Best for: Users who want an all-in-one AI-powered tool.

Google Lens is more than just a QR code scanner—it’s an AI-powered visual search tool that can identify objects, translate text, and solve math problems. It’s integrated into the Google app and camera on most Android devices and is available as a standalone app for iOS. While not a dedicated QR scanner, its versatility makes it a top choice for many users.

Key Features:

Scans QR codes, barcodes, and more.
AI-powered object and text recognition.
Seamless integration with Google services.

8. QR & Barcode Reader by QR SCAN Team

Platforms: Android

Best for: Android users who want a free, no-frills scanner.

This app is 100% free, with no hidden costs or intrusive ads. It supports all QR and barcode formats, offers a detailed scan history, and allows users to disable auto-redirection after scanning. The app is lightweight and efficient, making it ideal for everyday use.

Key Features:

Completely free with no ads.
Scan history with categorized logs.
Option to disable auto-redirection.

9. QR Reader for iPhone by TapMedia

Platforms: iOS

Best for: iPhone users who want a feature-rich, customizable scanner.

This app is tailored specifically for iPhone users, offering a sleek interface, scan history, and advanced features like NFC tag scanning and customizable actions. It’s highly rated for its performance and ease of use, though some features require a subscription.

Key Features:

Optimized for iOS with intuitive gestures.
Supports NFC tag scanning and custom actions.
Detailed scan history and settings.

10. QR Code Reader by MixerBox

Platforms: iOS

Best for: iPhone users who want a fast, no-fuss scanner.

This app is designed for speed and simplicity, scanning QR codes almost instantly. It supports over 15 types of 1D and 2D barcodes and offers a clean interface with minimal options. The free version includes a trial period, after which a subscription is required.

Key Features:

Extremely fast scanning.
Supports a wide range of barcode formats.
Simple, user-friendly interface.

How to Choose the Best QR Code Scanner App for Your Needs

With so many options available, selecting the right QR code scanner app depends on your specific requirements:

For Security: Choose TrendMicro’s Safe QR Code Reader or Kaspersky QR Scanner for real-time link verification and malware protection.
For Speed and Simplicity: QRbot, NeoReader, or QR Code Reader by MixerBox offer fast, ad-free scanning with minimal clutter.
For Advanced Features: QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play or QR Reader for iPhone by TapMedia provide extras like barcode support, scan history, and custom actions.
For AI-Powered Scanning: Google Lens is the best choice for users who want more than just QR code scanning, such as object recognition and text translation.
For Android Users: QR & Barcode Reader by QR SCAN Team is a top pick for a free, lightweight, and efficient scanner.

Can You Scan QR Codes Without an App?

Yes, most modern smartphones (iOS 11+ and Android 9+) have built-in QR code scanning via their camera apps. Simply open your camera, point it at the QR code, and tap the notification that appears. However, dedicated apps offer additional security, speed, and features that built-in scanners lack.

For older devices or users who want extra security, a dedicated QR code scanner app is highly recommended.

Conclusion

QR codes are here to stay, and the right scanner app can significantly enhance your experience—whether for personal convenience, business efficiency, or security. In 2025, the best QR code scanner apps combine speed, security, and user-friendly features to meet a wide range of needs.

For most users, TrendMicro’s Safe QR Code Reader and QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play stand out as the top choices, offering a balance of security, speed, and functionality. If you’re an iPhone user, QR Reader for iPhone by TapMedia or QR Code Reader by MixerBox provide tailored experiences with advanced features. For those who want an all-in-one tool, Google Lens remains a versatile and powerful option.

No matter which app you choose, always prioritize security and user reviews to ensure a safe and seamless scanning experience.