Alias is a free URL shortener with click analytics, custom aliases, link expiry, QR code generation, bulk CSV shortening, link-in-bio pages, a browser extension, and an official TypeScript SDK.

Is Alias free to use?

Yes. Alias offers a free plan with no credit card required. You can shorten links, track clicks, build a link-in-bio page, and use the API at no cost.

Can I create custom short links with Alias?

Yes. Alias lets you set custom aliases for your links, replacing random slugs with branded, memorable short paths such as alias.live/your-brand.

Does Alias track who clicks my links?

Yes. Alias tracks every click with detailed analytics including country, device type, browser, and referrer. This data is available in your dashboard.

Can I shorten multiple URLs at once?

Yes. The Bulk Shortening tool lets you shorten up to 50 URLs in one request. Upload a CSV file or paste a list, then download the results with short URLs and any errors as a CSV.

Does Alias have link-in-bio pages?

Yes. Every Alias account can create a Linktree-style page at alias.live/p/yourname. Add up to 20 links, pick from 6 gradient colour themes, and track clicks on each button individually.

Is there an official SDK or API?

Yes. Alias provides a REST API and an official TypeScript/JavaScript SDK (npm install aliaslive-sdk). The SDK supports ESM and CommonJS, has full type safety, and covers shortening, bulk shortening, and link management with zero runtime dependencies.

Is there a browser extension?

Yes. Alias has a free extension for Chrome and Edge. Right-click any page or link to shorten it instantly. Works in guest mode with no setup, or connect your account for custom slugs saved to your dashboard.

Can I set an expiry date on a short link?

Yes. Alias lets you set an expiration date on any link. Once expired, the link stops redirecting — ideal for time-sensitive campaigns.

How fast are Alias redirects?

Alias redirects are processed in under 50 milliseconds on average, ensuring a seamless experience for anyone clicking your links.

Free QR Code Generator: Create QR Codes for Any Link

March 28, 2025 · Features · 4 min read

Generate free QR codes for any URL in seconds. Learn how QR codes work, where to use them, and how to create downloadable QR codes with Alias.

A QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that smartphones can scan to instantly open a URL. Alias automatically generates a free QR code for every short link you create — no extra steps, no separate tool needed.

How QR Codes Work

A QR code encodes text — usually a URL — as a pattern of black and white squares. When a phone camera scans the code, it reads the encoded URL and opens it in the browser. QR codes can hold URLs up to around 4,000 characters, but shorter URLs produce simpler, more scannable codes.

This is one reason to shorten URLs before generating a QR code: a shorter URL means a less dense QR code, which scans faster and works at smaller print sizes.

Where to Use QR Codes

Product packaging — link to instructions, warranty registration, or a product page.
Business cards — link to your portfolio, LinkedIn, or booking page.
Restaurant menus — link to an online menu or order page.
Event posters and flyers — link to event details or a ticket purchase page.
Retail displays — link to product pages or promotional offers.
Email newsletters — some email clients block images; a QR code is always visible.
Presentation slides — let your audience scan instead of typing a long URL.

How to Generate a Free QR Code with Alias

Sign in to your Alias dashboard (free account).
Create a new short link or open an existing one.
Click the QR code icon on the link card.
Download the QR code as a PNG — ready to use in print or digital media.

The QR code links to your Alias short URL, which redirects to your destination. This means you can update the destination URL later without reprinting the QR code — just change where the short link points in your dashboard.

Dynamic vs. Static QR Codes

A static QR code encodes the final URL directly — it cannot be changed after printing. A dynamic QR code encodes a short URL that redirects, so you can update the destination at any time without reprinting. Alias QR codes are dynamic because they encode your short link, not the final URL.

Generate Your First QR Code Free

Create a free Alias account, shorten your link, and download a QR code in under a minute. No design software needed.

Generate a free QR code now