E-ticket: print or present on mobile?
This is a very common hesitation: should you print your e-ticket, or can you simply present it on your phone? Rest assured, in most cases, both work perfectly. Everything is based on the same element, the QR code or barcode, which must be clear and readable when scanned. Here's how to choose calmly according to your situation, and the little reflexes to avoid the slightest stress at the entrance.
The essential in one sentence
What matters at the entrance is not the support but the 'T0' code to scan 'T1'. Whether it is displayed on a smartphone screen or printed on a sheet, it is the same QR code (or barcode) which is read by the controller. Both solutions are therefore valid: it is mainly a question of choosing the one with which you will be most comfortable.
Mobile or paper: what really changes
| Criteria | On mobile | Printed on paper |
|---|---|---|
| Practicality | Always in the pocket, nothing to prepare | Print in advance, at home or at work |
| Risk on D-day | Low battery, broken or locked screen | Forgotten, crumpled or stained sheet |
| Code readability | Consider increasing the screen brightness | Print in good quality, without scratches on the code |
| Without network | Possible if the ticket is saved (PDF or Wallet) | No network required, by nature |
| Multiple tickets | Everything grouped in the phone | One sheet per ticket, easy to distribute to the group |
In the majority of events, both formats are accepted. If in doubt, the information is on the event page or in your confirmation email.
When mobile is most practical
- You are alone or in a small group and keep your phone with you.
- You have already 'T0' added the ticket to your 'T1' Wallet, accessible with one gesture even without a network.
- You want to avoid paper and keep all your 'T0' tickets in the same place 'T1'.
- Your phone holds a charge well, or you have a backup battery.
When printing reassures
- You 'T0' share 'T1' places with a group: everyone leaves with their own sheet.
- Your phone has a temperamental 'T0' battery or a damaged screen.
- The event 'T0' indicates preferring or requiring 'T1' the paper ticket.
- You simply have more peace of mind with a physical version in hand.
Present your ticket correctly on mobile
- 1
Prepare the ticket before the line
Open the PDF or Wallet a few minutes before arriving, so as not to search at the last moment in front of the controller.
- 2
Turn the brightness up to maximum
A bright screen scans much faster. Also turn off dark mode if the code appears grayed out.
- 3
Display the entire QR code
The code should be visible and clear, without being cut off by the edge of the screen. Avoid zooming in so far that it cuts off.
- 4
Keep the screen on
Set the sleep time to a longer duration, or touch the screen so that it does not turn off during scanning.
Print your e-ticket correctly
- 1
Download the official PDF
Print from the original file, not a screenshot: the quality of the code depends on it.
- 2
Print at full size
Avoid shrinking the page. The barcode must remain large and clear enough to be read without difficulty.
- 3
Check the rendering of the code
Make sure the QR code is not faded, scratched or cut. A crisp black and white print is sufficient.
- 4
Store the sheet flat
Fold it as little as possible and prevent it from creasing: a crease right in the middle of the code can interfere with the scan.