Static vs. Dynamic QR Codes: Which Do You Need?

The Two Types of QR Codes

All QR codes fall into two categories: static and dynamic. Understanding the difference is crucial for choosing the right type for your needs.

Static QR Codes

How They Work

Static QR codes encode information directly in the code pattern itself. The data is permanently embedded—once created, it cannot be changed.

Characteristics

Fixed content: Data cannot be modified after creation

Larger size: More data = more modules = bigger code

No tracking: Cannot measure scans

Works offline: No internet needed to function

Free: No ongoing costs

Best Use Cases

Personal contact cards (if info won't change)

WiFi passwords (for stable networks)

Fixed URLs that won't change

One-time events

Historical archives

Limitations

Cannot update destination without creating new code

No scan analytics

Complex data requires larger codes

Cannot fix errors after printing

Dynamic QR Codes

How They Work

Dynamic QR codes contain a short redirect URL. When scanned, users hit this URL, which then redirects to your actual destination. This redirect can be changed anytime.

Characteristics

Editable destination: Change where the code points anytime

Smaller size: Only encodes a short URL

Full analytics: Track scans, locations, devices, times

Requires internet: Needs connection to resolve redirect

Subscription: Usually requires paid plan

Best Use Cases

Marketing campaigns (update destinations, track results)

Product packaging (redirect to different content over time)

Real estate signs (redirect when property sells)

Business cards (update if you change jobs)

Any printed material where content might change

Analytics Available

Total scan count

Scans over time

Geographic location

Device types (iOS, Android)

Unique vs. repeat scans

Peak scanning times

Comparison Table

FeatureStaticDynamic

Edit after creationNoYes
Scan trackingNoYes
Code sizeLargerSmaller
Works offlineYesNo
CostFreeSubscription
URL length impactYesNo
A/B testingNoYes
ExpirationNeverDepends on plan

How to Choose

Choose Static When:

Content will never change

You don't need analytics

Budget is zero

Offline functionality is important

It's for personal/non-critical use

Choose Dynamic When:

Content might need updating

You want to track scans

You're printing large quantities

It's for business/marketing

You need smaller QR codes

Multiple people manage codes

Real-World Scenarios

Scenario 1: Restaurant Menu

Static: Link to a PDF that you update manually. Anyone who scanned before still has the old link.

Dynamic: Update the menu anytime. All existing QR codes automatically point to the new menu. See which menu items get scanned most.

Recommendation: Dynamic

Scenario 2: WiFi for Home Guests

Static: Encode WiFi credentials directly. Works instantly, no internet needed.

Dynamic: Unnecessary complexity. Static is simpler and works offline.

Recommendation: Static

Scenario 3: Product Packaging

Static: Link to a product page. If you discontinue the product, the link breaks.

Dynamic: Start with product info, later redirect to replacement product or support page. Track engagement.

Recommendation: Dynamic

Scenario 4: Conference Name Badge

Static: Encode vCard directly. Attendees save your info instantly.

Dynamic: Could update if you change contact info, but most attendees won't re-scan.

Recommendation: Static (unless you change jobs frequently)

Scenario 5: Marketing Flyer Campaign

Static: No way to know if the flyers are working.

Dynamic: Track which locations generate scans, what times, conversion rates. Update landing page to improve results.

Recommendation: Dynamic

The Hybrid Approach

Some users print static QR codes linking to a page they control. This gives some flexibility (you can change the page content) without the cost of dynamic codes. However, you lose:

Proper redirect analytics

Ability to change the URL itself

Smaller code size benefits

Getting Started

Create a Static QR Code

Go to our generator

Enter your content

Download and use—free forever

Create a Dynamic QR Code

Sign up for an account

Choose a plan with dynamic codes

Create your code with full analytics

Edit anytime, track everything

Conclusion

Static codes are perfect for permanent, personal content where tracking isn't needed.

Dynamic codes are essential for business use, marketing, and any situation where flexibility and analytics matter.

Not sure? Start with static codes for personal projects, upgrade to dynamic when you need business features.