The main difference between static and dynamic QR codes is whether the QR code can be updated after it has been generated. While that’s the primary difference, there’s a few more characteristics that set the two apart that you’ll need to be made aware of.
And that’s exactly what we here at My QR Code are here to do. In this article, we’re going to be examining both static and dynamic QR codes, their differences, and the situations in which you might use them. And considering just how ubiquitous QR codes are in the modern age (with 41.77 million QR code scans in 2024 alone), knowing what QR code to use at what time will be crucial. So let’s dive in!
The Difference Between Dynamic and Static QR Codes
At their core, static and dynamic QR codes serve the same basic purpose – they allow users to access digital content through a simple smartphone scan. However, the way they store and manage this information differs significantly. Static QR codes permanently encode their content directly within the code’s pattern, while dynamic QR codes contain a redirect URL that can be modified without changing the code itself.
To make this even easier to understand, all you need to know is that static QR codes are unable to be changed once they’re generated, but dynamic QR codes can be. Granted, there are a few more differences, but we’ll explore those in our next sections.
Static QR Codes: Simple but Unchangeable
Static QR codes are like a permanent marker on paper – once created, their content cannot be modified. When you generate a static QR code, the information you want to share, whether it’s a website URL, plain text, or contact details, becomes permanently embedded in the code’s pattern. This means if you need to update the information, you’ll need to create and distribute an entirely new QR code.
Despite this limitation, static QR codes offer several advantages. They’re typically free to generate and don’t require ongoing maintenance or subscription fees. They’re also perfect for situations where the linked information will remain constant, such as historical markers, business cards, or product manuals. Since they don’t rely on a redirect server, static QR codes will continue working indefinitely without any additional costs or infrastructure.
Dynamic QR Codes: Flexible and Trackable
Dynamic QR codes represent a more sophisticated approach to QR technology. Instead of encoding the final destination directly, dynamic codes contain a short redirect URL that points to a server. When someone scans the code, they’re first directed to this server, which then redirects them to the actual content. This seemingly simple difference opens up a world of possibilities.
The most significant advantage of dynamic QR codes is their editability. Since the QR code only contains the redirect URL, you can change the final destination at any time without creating a new code. This flexibility proves invaluable in marketing campaigns, where content needs frequent updates or when printing materials well in advance of their use.
Another powerful feature of dynamic QR codes is their ability to track engagement. When users scan the code, the redirect server can collect valuable data such as the number of scans, location of scans, and even the types of devices used. This information helps businesses measure the effectiveness of their QR code campaigns and make data-driven decisions about their marketing strategies.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing between static and dynamic QR codes depends largely on your specific needs and circumstances. Consider static QR codes when you need a simple, one-time solution, the linked information will remain constant, or budget constraints require a free solution. On the other hand, dynamic QR codes are better suited when content needs to be updated regularly, analytics and tracking are important, or you’re running marketing campaigns that require measurement.
Real-World Applications for Static and Dynamic QR Codes
To better understand the practical implications, consider a restaurant’s menu. A static QR code would work fine for a fixed menu that rarely changes. However, if the restaurant frequently updates its offerings or wants to display different menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a dynamic QR code would be more appropriate. The same code could point to different menus based on the time of day, and the restaurant could track which items attract the most interest through scan analytics.
Looking to the Future
You might be fooled into thinking that dynamic QR codes are the be all and end all of QR codes. It’s a technology that keeps on advancing however, especially if we consider MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and their development of Bokodes.
Plus, AI (Artificial Intelligence) has come a long way in the past couple of years, so we’re starting to see a blend of AI in QR codes. For instance, this free AI generator allows you to make QR codes that feature images, patterns, scenes, and more!
Generate Your Own Dynamic QR Codes
If you’re looking to create dynamic QR codes for your business or personal use, My QR Code offers a comprehensive solution. Our platform allows you to generate dynamic QR codes that can be edited at any time without creating new codes, and that can be tracked using our comprehensive analytics suite.
With My QR Code, you can customize the appearance of your QR codes by changing colors, adding logos, and choosing between different patterns and corner square presets. This can help when you’re trying to make an impression in marketing campaigns, or you just want a unique looking QR code!
Regardless of which type you choose, the key is understanding your specific requirements and selecting the solution that best aligns with your goals. Both static and dynamic QR codes have their place in our digital toolkit, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in the success of your QR code implementation.
Image: DPO Group