Dynamic vs static QR codes: which one do you need?

Every QR code you make is one of two types: static or dynamic. They look the same on paper and scan the same way, but they behave very differently once printed. Picking the wrong one is the most common QR mistake small businesses make, and it is usually discovered after the print run.

Static QR codes in one paragraph

A static code holds its content directly in the pattern. A link, a block of text, Wi-Fi credentials or a contact card is turned into squares, and the phone reads it back out. Nothing sits in the middle. Static codes are free to make, work offline for Wi-Fi and contacts, and can never be switched off by anyone. You also cannot change them. Whatever went into the code at print time is what it says forever.

Dynamic QR codes in one paragraph

A dynamic code holds a short link that belongs to a QR service. When scanned, the phone visits that short link, the service records the scan, and then forwards the person to your real destination. Because the printed code only contains the short link, you can change the final destination at any time, and you get scan counts. The tradeoff is that the service is now part of the chain. If it stops forwarding, the code stops working.

Side by side

• Can you change where it goes after printing? Static: no. Dynamic: yes.
• Can you see how many people scanned it? Static: no. Dynamic: yes, and often where and on what device.
• Can it stop working? Static: only if the destination page disappears. Dynamic: also if the provider stops forwarding.
• Does it need internet to work? Static Wi-Fi and contact codes do not. Dynamic codes always do.
• Cost: Static codes are free everywhere. Dynamic codes are usually part of a paid plan, sometimes with a small free allowance.
• Pattern density: Dynamic codes hold a short link, so the pattern is simpler and scans more easily at small sizes. Static codes with long links get dense.

When static is the right choice

Use a static code when the content will not change and you do not need numbers:

• Wi-Fi codes. The phone needs the password before it has internet, so a Wi-Fi code must be static. See our Wi-Fi QR code guide.
• Contact cards (vCard). The details save directly to the phone. Fine as long as your number stays the same.
• A link to a page that will never move, such as your home page.
• One-off uses, like a code on a slide for a single talk.

When dynamic is the right choice

Use a dynamic code when the print is expensive, long lived or in many places:

• Restaurant menus and table tents. Menus change. Tents should not need reprinting every season. See restaurant menu QR codes.
• Product packaging. Boxes live for years. The page they point to will probably move at least once.
• Real estate signs. One sign rider, many listings.
• Flyers and posters, where you want to know whether anyone actually scanned them and want a way to fix a mistake after printing.
• Anything where scan counts help you decide, like testing two locations for the same poster.

A quick way to decide

Ask two questions:

1. Is there any chance the link will change while this print is still in use?
2. Would knowing the number of scans change a decision you make?

If both answers are no, use a static code. If either is yes, use a dynamic one.

The catch with dynamic codes

The catch is not technical. It is commercial. Because the provider sits in the middle, your printed code is only as reliable as their business model. Several large QR generators advertise free dynamic codes that turn out to be a trial, and the codes are deactivated when it ends. Others cap scans on free plans, or show a monthly price that is actually charged yearly. We cover the details in do QR codes expire?

Before you choose a dynamic provider, find the answer to: "what happens to my codes if I stop paying?" If you cannot find it in their terms, assume the worst.

How ScanStill does it

ScanStill offers both, with no tricks:

• Static codes: free and unlimited on our generator, no account, made in your browser. You can add a logo or make hundreds at once with the bulk generator.
• Dynamic codes: 1 free forever with an account, editable anytime. Plus is $6 a month or $48 a year for 25 codes with analytics, logo and colors. Pro is $12 a month or $96 a year for 200 codes and CSV bulk creation.
• Unlimited scans on every plan, and paid codes keep working for 30 days after you cancel.

See pricing for the full comparison.