Are QR Codes Trackable?
Yes — but only if you use the right type. Here's how QR code tracking works and what data you can actually collect.
Quick Answer
- • Dynamic QR codes: Yes, fully trackable (scans, time, location, device)
- • Static QR codes: Not directly trackable (just encode a URL)
- • Workaround for static: Use UTM parameters + Google Analytics
Dynamic vs Static QR Codes
Dynamic QR Codes ✓
The QR code points to a tracking server, which redirects to your destination. Every scan is logged.
Trackable: Scan count, time, location, device, browser
Static QR Codes ✗
The QR code contains the destination URL directly. No middleman, no tracking.
Not trackable: Unless you add UTM parameters
What Data Can You Track?
Total Scans
How many times the QR code was scanned, including unique vs repeat scans.
Time & Date
When scans happen — identify peak hours, days, or campaign periods.
Location
City and country based on IP address. See where your audience is.
Device & OS
iPhone vs Android, browser type, screen size. Optimize your landing page.
How QR Code Tracking Works
You create a dynamic QR code that points to a tracking URL (e.g., qrcodebetter.com/abc123)
Someone scans the QR code with their phone
The tracking server logs the scan data (time, location, device)
The user is instantly redirected to your destination URL
You view scan analytics in your dashboard
Privacy Considerations
QR code tracking collects anonymized data — IP-based location (city level, not exact address), device type, and time. It does not collect personal information, names, or phone numbers. This is comparable to standard website analytics.
Why Track QR Code Scans?
- • Measure print ROI: Know if that flyer campaign actually drove traffic
- • Compare placements: Which poster location gets more scans?
- • Optimize timing: Run campaigns when your audience is most active
- • A/B test CTAs: Does "Scan for Discount" beat "Learn More"?
- • Justify marketing spend: Show stakeholders real engagement data
Create Trackable QR Codes
Generate dynamic QR codes with built-in analytics. See every scan in real-time.
Generate QR Code