Static vs Dynamic QR Codes: Which One Do You Need

They look exactly the same. But they work very differently.

What is a static QR code

A static QR code has the destination baked directly into the pattern of the code. The URL, the text, the WiFi credentials, whatever it encodes, is stored permanently in the code itself.

Once printed, it cannot be changed. If the destination changes, the code is useless, and you have to start over.

What is a dynamic QR code

A dynamic QR code points to a short redirect URL. That redirect URL is what you can change. The code's pattern never changes, but where it sends people can be updated from a dashboard at any time.

Same printed code. New destination. No reprinting.

Dynamic QR codes also track scans

Because every scan goes through a redirect, you get data on each scan. When it happened, what device and where in the world. Static codes have no way to do this.

When to use static

WiFi QR codes are static by nature since the credentials need to be in the code itself. One-time-use codes that never need updating are also fine as static.

When to use dynamic

Anything you print at scale. Business cards, menus, flyers, signage, packaging. Basically, anything where reprinting would be a hassle or a cost.

Any time you want to track whether people are actually scanning.

Any time the destination might change in the future.

The default should be dynamic

There is no downside to using a dynamic QR code instead of a static one. It just gives you more flexibility. The only reason to use static is if the platform you are using does not offer dynamic, which is a reason to switch platforms.

Not sure which plan is right for you? Read our guide on free vs paid QR code generators.