QR Code Reader · alternatives
Users often seek alternatives to QR Code Reader · due to its aggressive subscription prompts, high monthly fees, and intrusive ads that hinder usability. Many also report issues with the app crashing or failing to scan codes reliably.
Why users look for alternatives to QR Code Reader ·
- Many users report that the app demands payment or subscription, despite being advertised as free, with some being charged automatically without clear consent.R13R16R20R24
- The app is criticized for intrusive and difficult-to-close ads, even for users who previously paid for a pro version.R1R18R46R50
- Some users experience technical issues such as the app crashing, failing to scan QR codes, or not directing them to the correct website.R21R28R32R42
- There are reports of security concerns, including virus warnings, hacking claims, and the app displaying inappropriate content.R3R22
- The app's interface can be confusing or difficult to use, leading to frustration and quick uninstallation.R4R26R42
The alternatives
This app is described by some users as providing fast service and quality scanning, with one user calling it "Super helpful when figuring out the best deal" R52R55. However, other reviews indicate it works only "once in a while" or "doesn't work" at all R51.
Better for: This app might suit users who prioritize speed and quality of service, assuming they do not encounter the reported scanning issues R52R55. However, potential users should be aware of reports of unauthorized charges and hacking .
Head-to-head: QR Code Reader · vs QR Reader for iPhoneThis alternative is praised for being "Awesome," "simple and free," and consistently working R66R70. Users find it quick, easy to use, and reliable for scanning QR codes, with one noting it "functions intuitively with prompt display" R69. It also correctly identifies barcodes .
Better for: This app is ideal for users looking for a straightforward, reliable, and free QR code and barcode scanner that works "like a charm every time" R66R69R70. It suits those who value ease of use and consistent performance without hidden costs.
Head-to-head: QR Code Reader · vs QR Code ReaderSome users found this app to work effectively on the first try and appreciate its ability to make logging into accounts easier than manual typing R84. However, many reviews highlight that it is "not free" and charges high weekly or monthly fees after a short trial, with some reporting charges even without use or denied refunds R79R81.
Better for: This app might be considered by users who need a scanner for quick account logins and find it works well initially R84. However, it is not suitable for users who are unwilling to pay high recurring subscription fees, as many reviews criticize its pricing model and automatic charges R79R81.
Head-to-head: QR Code Reader · vs QR Code Reader/QR Scanner AppThis app is appreciated for being "Great" and providing "useful information" that makes life easier, with some users noting it's "easily understood and navigated" R97. It can take users directly to the URL link after scanning . One long-term user stated it has "No tricks. No gimmicks. Never expire," and is worth it even with occasional ads for creating many codes .
Better for: This app is a good fit for users who need a straightforward, reliable scanner that provides useful information and direct URL access R97. It particularly suits users who appreciate transparency in pricing and a long-term free option, even if it means occasional ads for heavy use R99.
Head-to-head: QR Code Reader · vs QR Code & Barcode Scanner ・This app is generally described as "great" and "very useful" by users R108R114. However, there are serious complaints about it being a "scam app" that charges users weekly, with one user reporting being charged $9.99 weekly for over two years R110.
Better for: This app might appeal to users looking for a generally useful scanning tool R108R114. However, it is not recommended for anyone concerned about recurring, potentially unauthorized charges, as multiple reviews highlight significant billing issues R107R110.
Head-to-head: QR Code Reader · vs QR Code Reader,Barcode ScannerYou should stick with QR Code Reader · if you are one of the users who find it to be "The Best!" and experience it as "faster and scans any QR code instantly" with a "Clean interface" and "Good utility app" .
Evidence note: Some alternatives, like QR Reader for iPhone and QR Code Reader,Barcode Scanner, have mixed reviews with strong positive and negative feedback, making a definitive recommendation challenging without more consistent data.
Frequently asked
Is QR Code Reader · truly free to use?
Does QR Code Reader · have intrusive ads?
What reviewers actually said
Built only from these 120 real reviews (foreign ones translated). Superscripts jump to the quote here. Apple has no per-review links, so [ref] opens that app's reviews on the App Store.
- [R13] QR Code Reader · So much help: This app just wants money. Every second buy our this buy our that. Fix this and it won’t scam
- [R16] QR Code Reader · Asks for money: Don't even download it. · translated
- [R20] QR Code Reader · Demands purchase: Demands purchase. Not free as advertised.
- [R24] QR Code Reader · $9.99/month…Greed is a thing.: So I have to set everything up to subscribe just to use it for free for 3 days..then it’s $9.99/month for a QR reader. But hey that covers all the necessary updates and new features…FOR A QR READER. I’d give this minus stars just for the greed. NO THANKS.
- [R1] QR Code Reader · Used to love but no more: I used to love this app and I had the pro version. I just cancelled it due to the ads. I probably wouldn’t have minded them but it was the kind of ads where they have x’s so small or light that you can’t get out of the ad as it try’s to force you to get whatever product it is for. It was a great product but they ruined it.
- [R18] QR Code Reader · Used to be a good app: I bought this app to use to read QR codes, but now it is forcing me to upgrade to a qr/bar code reader, without the option to by pass the ad.
- [R46] QR Code Reader · Unusable App: Just force people to pay before downloading. The initial experience of using the app is bombarded with ads both before and after scanning.
- [R50] QR Code Reader · I’m overscreen ads: Inserting ad text in clipboard, overscreen ads, blocking. Nah
- [R21] QR Code Reader · crashes: i like using this app a lot but for some reason it keeps crashing, it’s getting a bit annoying but the app is really good!!!
- [R28] QR Code Reader · This app sucks: This app sucks. I think that about sums it up. It rarely takes you to the site .
- [R32] QR Code Reader · Doesn’t scan: Waste of time. Doesn’t scan anything.
- [R42] QR Code Reader · What’s wrong with your app: It was too confusing and it did not scan
- [R3] QR Code Reader · Is it a bug or something: I was using it but it said that I had a virus and 1 day later it said I was hacked
- [R22] QR Code Reader · Garbage Porn App: This app was clearly hacked because when you install it, it just brings up porn and tries to send you to porn websites. Absolute garbage.
- [R4] QR Code Reader · Easy: Too difficult for an elderly person to
- [R26] QR Code Reader · So intuitive: This another one of those apps that are so intuitive that you just want to delete them the instant you begin interacting with them PS the help file that doesn’t exist helped me a lot. I interacted with this app for two minutes, then deleted it. It was so bad I figured out how to write the review.
- [R51] QR Reader for iPhone I: Works once in a while. Other times not working.
- [R52] QR Reader for iPhone Kevin: Most wonderful fast service and quality. Love door dashing for these guys
- [R54] QR Reader for iPhone No title: Bad review when you can’t get to the website
- [R55] QR Reader for iPhone Great App!: Super helpful when figuring out the best deal !
- [R66] QR Code Reader Awesome QR code Reader: Awesome QR code reader, always works, simple and free!!
- [R69] QR Code Reader QR code scanner.: This app functions intuitively with prompt display. Usefulness can not be measured.
- [R70] QR Code Reader QR reader: Works like a charm every time I need to scan something it’s super fast and reliable
- [R71] QR Code Reader Great: Great and friendly app
- [R79] QR Code Reader/QR Scanner App Too expensive: $15 a month for an app that I might use 5 times a year. I’ll do without a QR scanner before I pay that much. I deleted my app.
- [R81] QR Code Reader/QR Scanner App Not free: Was a good app when it was free. Not paying $3.99 a week for an app you use 5 times a year.
- [R83] QR Code Reader/QR Scanner App Horrible does not work: Horrible does not work
- [R84] QR Code Reader/QR Scanner App QR code Scanner: Makes lightning into accounts very much easier than having to type out my email and password over and over. Highly recommend!
- [R93] QR Code & Barcode Scanner ・ Does not work: Doesn’t work
- [R95] QR Code & Barcode Scanner ・ Agencies: I like using the QR code.
- [R97] QR Code & Barcode Scanner ・ Great: Love useful information and makes life easier. Thanks
- [R99] QR Code & Barcode Scanner ・ QR SCAN IFFY: It would be nice to know you are going to be fleeced prior the fleecing! There was no mention of a fee or a reoccurring fee at any given time that you choose fit. So if I’m being charged, please let me know now so I can cancel it anyway this was not any better any worse than the rest of them you’re just a whole lot more shifty about it.
- [R107] QR Code Reader,Barcode Scanner Taking Avantage of customers forcing to agree on non-paper service payment.: I hate to be forced to pay by sponsored process of collection by Sunrise. We have to agree always of what they want.
- [R108] QR Code Reader,Barcode Scanner great: it’s a great app
- [R110] QR Code Reader,Barcode Scanner scam people scam app: stealing $9.99 weekly for over 2-years. AND Apple only refunded me last 2 months. I am suing APPLE
- [R114] QR Code Reader,Barcode Scanner Sadik: It is very useful
- [R34] QR Code Reader · Shady purchasing practice: I see I am not the only one this happened to so it shows me we are being ripped off by “trying out” this App. I NEVER pay $12.50 for an App. Much less one that does so little. My camera can do this without an App so why would I buy this? I didn’t, yet I was charged $12.50 for a month!! If I had to scan the inventory at Walmart I couldn’t justify this cost. Don’t expect A
Synthesized from 120 recent App Store reviews · updated July 2026 · View on the App Store