Static vs Dynamic QR Codes
Not all QR codes are the same. Static codes are free and permanent. Dynamic codes can be edited and tracked. Here's how to choose the right one.
Create Your QR CodeQuick Comparison
| Feature | Static QR Code | Dynamic QR Code |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free forever | From $10/month |
| Change destination after printing | No | Yes |
| Scan tracking & analytics | No | Yes |
| Location data | No | Yes |
| Expiration | Never expires | While subscription active |
| Scans allowed | Unlimited | Unlimited |
What is a Static QR Code?
A static QR code encodes the destination URL directly into the QR pattern itself. When someone scans it, their phone reads the URL from the code and opens it.
Because the URL is physically part of the pattern, it can never be changed. If you want a different destination, you need to create a new QR code and reprint everything.
QR Code Pattern → yourwebsite.com/page
Pros of Static QR Codes:
- ✓ Completely free, no subscription needed
- ✓ Never expires (as long as the destination URL exists)
- ✓ Works offline—no server dependency
- ✓ Unlimited scans forever
Cons of Static QR Codes:
- ✗ Cannot change destination after creation
- ✗ No scan tracking or analytics
- ✗ Typo? Wrong URL? You have to reprint
What is a Dynamic QR Code?
A dynamic QR code doesn't encode your destination URL directly. Instead, it encodes a short redirect URL on our servers. When scanned, we log the scan, then instantly redirect to your actual destination.
Because the redirect happens on our servers, you can change where the QR code points at any time. The printed QR code stays exactly the same.
QR Code → qrcodebetter.com/qr/abc123 → yourwebsite.com/page
Pros of Dynamic QR Codes:
- ✓ Change destination anytime—no reprinting
- ✓ Track scans: total, unique, time, location, device
- ✓ Fix mistakes instantly
- ✓ A/B test different landing pages
- ✓ Export analytics to CSV
Cons of Dynamic QR Codes:
- ✗ Requires paid subscription
- ✗ Depends on our servers (we have 99.9% uptime)
When to Use Each Type
Use Static QR Codes When:
- • The URL will never change (permanent company website)
- • You don't need to track scans
- • Personal use (WiFi passwords, contact cards)
- • One-time events with limited print runs
- • You want a completely free solution
Use Dynamic QR Codes When:
- • Printing on product packaging (can't reprint 10,000 boxes)
- • Marketing campaigns (track ROI)
- • Restaurant menus (update seasonally)
- • You might need to fix a mistake
- • You want scan analytics and location data
Real-World Examples
Restaurant Menu
Use dynamic. Menus change seasonally. Update prices or dishes without reprinting table tents.
WiFi Password
Use static. WiFi credentials are encoded directly. Free, works offline, no tracking needed.
Product Packaging
Use dynamic. Once printed on thousands of units, you can't change static codes. Dynamic gives you flexibility.
Business Card
Either works. Static for permanent info. Dynamic if you might change jobs or want to track networking ROI.
Marketing Flyers
Use dynamic. Track which locations drive the most scans. Update promo URLs without reprinting.
Social Media
Use dynamic. You might change handles, switch platforms, or want to track follower growth.
Common Questions
Can I convert a static QR code to dynamic?
No. The URL is physically encoded in the QR pattern. You'd need to create a new dynamic QR code and reprint. This is why it's important to choose the right type before large print runs.
Do dynamic QR codes stop working if I cancel?
Dynamic codes continue to redirect for a grace period after cancellation. However, you lose the ability to edit destinations or view analytics.
Are dynamic QR codes slower to scan?
The redirect happens in milliseconds. Users won't notice any difference. The QR code itself scans at the same speed.
Which is more secure?
Both are equally secure for typical use. Dynamic codes go through our servers, but we only log scan metadata (time, location)—not personal information about the scanner.
Ready to Create Your QR Code?
Start with a free static code, or try dynamic codes free for 14 days.
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